Quick viewing(Text Mode)

'Urwordon to Reform the Entire Church, Not Ing Effect of the Eucharist Is Just the Liturgy

'Urwordon to Reform the Entire Church, Not Ing Effect of the Eucharist Is Just the Liturgy

Volume 22, No.2, Summer 2004 as Vatican II. We have all been deeply affected by its results, CSL called the celebration of JIlIb most notably and visibly in the the Eucharist the "source and way we pray liturgically. But summit" of the Christian life. the purpose of this Council was In other words, the transform- 'UrWordon to reform the entire church, not ing effect of the Eucharist is just the liturgy. Certainly the that to which we aim our lives Council Fathers knew well the and it is also the very thing term lex orandi, lex credendi - which strengthens us to be the way we pray tells us what transformers of the world. Newsletter oflhe Worship Office, Archdiocese, of Newark, NJ we believe - as the first thing Nothing else in the life of the they did in this reform of the Church has as powerful an The purpose of this article is to church was to call for a reform effect on its members than the give a basic introduction for of how we pray. They did this celebration of the liturgy, par- to the 2002 third edi- by scripting the Constitution on ticularly the Eucharistic cele- In This Issue: tion of the General Instruction the Sacred Liturgy (CSL). bration. This means that there of the (GIRM). is a deep connection between The Third Edition of the General While the article covers many The vision of the Church as a how we live our lives in the Instruction of the Roman Missal important topics from the 2002 and as a sign of the world and what we do at the GIRM, it is important that min- Kingdom on earth could only table of the Lord each Sunday. This article is adapted from a isters of the liturgy read the be shaped into being through And I believe that is especially presentation given by the entire document and other sup- the prayer life of the Church true of the role of the Worship Office of the porting directives, which com- which is what truly forms the whose very name comes from Archdiocese of Newark in late plement it. Please see the list- People of God into the Body of the Greek diakonia which as 2003. ing at the end of this article for Christ. This was the reason for you know means "service." other helpful sources. writing the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy and calling for a Keeping these and other princi- In truth, there is much more liturgical reform. ples in mind, the Constitution that is the same in the new called for a reform of the rites GIRM as in the previous one. If one concept could summa- of the church and in the follow- It continues to be a very posi- rize the entire reform of the ing years new rites were devel- tive document, which carries liturgy and the church at oped for all of the sacramental on the reform of the liturgy by Vatican II, it would be the bat- celebrations including of adding new directives, and as tle cry of the liturgical move- course the Liturgy of the we will see, adding more ment for "full, conscious and Eucharist. With the Eucharist strength to some original prin- active participation" of the at the heart of our faith, it could ciples found in the previous faithful in the whole life of the be said that the second most GIRM. This article will first church, particularly its prayer important document after the look at the background of the life. These words were forever Constitution is the GIRM. GIRM, point out what has been fixed into church teaching in Copies of the new GIRM are reinforced from the previous the CSL. In effect these words available from the Worship edition and finally examine say that every baptized member Office and will eventually be what has been added to this of the church matters and included in the introduction to , . newer version. indeed is necessary for the the new for prayer and life of the church, . It is important to BACKGROUND not just as spectator but as con- remember that the GIRM is not scious participant. This princi- a launching point from which First, a little background about ple is something we need to we can go and do our own this document. About 40 years keep in mind as we read the thing, but rather is a binding ago, Pope John XXIII called GIRM. document for how the liturgy is together a Council now known

THE THIRD EDmON OF TIlE GmERAL INSlRUCIlON OF TIlE

9 ROMAN MIssAL to be regularly celebrated. been promulgated and there- at the table while kneeling. fore supercedes any previous The most interesting and signif- editions. The exact wording in 179 is icant comment to make about that the deacon "normally" the current GIRM is that we are Just because a document has kneels after the Holy, Holy. looking at the third edition of been promulgated, however, Some pastoral reasons as to this document since 1969. does not mean that there is not why this may be impractical When you consider that the time given to implement it. In could include the deacon's abil- previous instruction for the fact, it would probably be safe ity to kneel, the architectural Roman Missal prior to Vatican to say that there has not yet design of the church and the II was virtually unchanged for been a single Mass, in a parish number of concelebrants. about 400 years, we realize that or a (cathedral litur- 3 editions in 40 years is a testi- gies and papal masses includ- It should also be noted that mony to another principle ed), at which every single nothing ought to detract atten- found in the CSL that "sound norm, instruction, and rubric of tion from the primary symbols tradition be retained and yet the the liturgy has been carried out. and actions of the Eucharistic, way remain open to legitimate If we have not, then, after 35 namely the itself, the progress." plus years been able to fully Eucharistic Prayer and the ele- implement the old Roman ments of bread and wine. If the We also be conscious of Missal with its GIRM, ought deacon kneels it should be done the fact that the initial texts we feel that we should have the discretely and unnoticeably; which the CSL called for in the new one completely and the use of anything as obstruc- 1960's were very different from painstakingly implemented by tive and distracting as a kneeler what came before as any here "next Sunday?" No! near the altar is forbidden. In who lived through the changes any case, this example particu- could attest to. The reformers This is not to say that larly relevant to deacons is used could not possibly envision and ministers can pick and to point out the occasional dif- what would work and what choose which rubrics and direc- ferences between the norms of would need clearer defmition. tives they want to obey; every this document and some of its As time has gone on, this has effort should be made to imple- directives. Pastoral considera- become more apparent; needs ment the liturgy as we have tions will need to be made; un-imagined when these rites received it. Still, liturgy is an however, they should not be were first composed 30 years organic thing and as with all done randomly but consistently ago are now apparent. And that living beings, useful things under the direction of the local is why we have before us today tend to grow and gain strength . the third edition of the GIRM. while weaker elements tend to die off. Some things, yes, need A final general remark on the GENERAL REMARKS to be implemented as soon as GIRM is that there is a clear possible while others are going concern for defming the roles Regarding the publication of to take time to grow on the peo- of various ministers, including the new GIRM, we are living in ple of God, and it is up to pas- and especially the ordained. very interesting times because toral ministers to support these Admittedly there is an accent while the General Instruction changes and encourage their placed particularly on the has been both translated into growth. presider in this document, but a English and promulgated for greater emphasis is also placed use, the rest of the book (the rit- In the new GIRM there are on the role of the deacon. uals and prayers and rubrics) many powerful liturgical norms has not been translated or but at times they can seem to be Now whether that stress on the approved for use. In essence, juxtaposed by more particular ordained excites you or upsets we have been given the instruc- directives. In paragraph 179 of you, there is one clear point tion manual on how to put the GIRM regarding the role of here: the reformed liturgy together the desk from lKEA, the deacon at Mass, it says that depends a lot on the ordained but we have not received the at the altar, the deacon is to minister. You can make the parts. Or perhaps a better way assist the presider with the liturgy or break it. So ask of saying it is that we have the book and the cup. However, yourself before each Mass, "Is parts, the old Sacramentary, but there is also a clear directive in it going to be the liturgy of we they are not exactly the ones for 179 that the deacon is to kneel or the liturgy of me?" "Am I which the instructions were for part of the Eucharistic focusing people on the pres- written. However, you should Prayer. This seems contradic- ence of God or on the presence know that the new GIRM has 10 tory as the deacon cannot assist of myself? Do I know what! am doing up in the sanctuary? central items which have example, the new GIRM men- Do I understand my role in already been given to us are tions the altar as being a sym- every part of the Mass? Could I being done and being done bol of Christ, language taken step into it at a moment's well. Those items can be from the 1977 Rite of notice, not because I am well summed up in these topics: Dedication of a Church and versed and rehearsed, but Silence and Singing in the Altar. because the role of deacon is Liturgy, Receiving part of who I am as a follower from the Altar, and Receiving Information about the Liturgy of Christ?" This is the sign of Communion Under Both of the Word was lifted right out any good liturgical minister. Species. All of these will be of the 1981 second edition of examined more closely below. the for Mass. It PARTICULAR CHANGES notes particularly two things: Some of the things that follow silence and the Book of the The reason you are probably may seem to apply only to Gospels. We will look at reading this article about the who preside at Mass, silence now and then the Book new GIRM is probably to find but remember that deacons can of the Gospels. out the answer to the question: preside at certain other litur- "What's different?" The truth gies, too. Even though the In number 56, we see a new is, there is nothing startlingly GIRM speaks about Mass, its directive adding emphasis on new in the 2002 GIRM that was guidelines for presiding ought silence in the liturgy: "During not already in the previous edi- to be observed at any liturgical the liturgy of the word it is tion.. There are some defmite celebration. appropriate to include brief particular changes in the cele- periods of silence ...in which at bration of the Mass as will be INSERTIONS FROM OTHER the prompting of the Holy pointed out below, but what is DOCUMENTS Spirit the word of God may be truly remarkable is the way the grasped by the heart ...it may be church took great pains to fur- The second edition of the appropriate after the readings ther enforce liturgical direc- GIRM came out in 1975. and at the conclusion of the tives found in the previous Obviously other liturgical doc- ." This is the first of the GIRM, so the purpose of this uments and rituals have come three major re-assertions from new document is not only to out since then and the new the previous GIRM: the use of create additional guidelines but GIRM has been edited to silence. This would also be a also to make certain that the include these changes. For

11 good opportunity to look at the to the people at opposite of silence: singing. A final insertion in the new Mass. It is normative. It is GIRM comes from the what the Church does. For over 35 years now we have 's Ceremonial which Receiving under both species is all heard the priest at Mass tells us that flowers are not to an integral part of who we are begin the Opening Prayer after be used during and are and how we worship as the Gloria with the words, "Let only to be used in moderation Catholics. us pray" which is supposed to during (305). be followed by a period of However, the old GIRM had silent prayer. But it would 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE few rubrics regarding how to probably be no exaggeration to offer communion under both Forty years of organic liturgy say that at over half of our species because it was new. In have caused some things to die Masses, the priest does not the U.S. what was done inad- off and new things to grow. pause at all and immediately vertently was to allow the min- The church has recognized this reads the Opening Prayer. . isters of Communion to assume and has pruned some dead some of the roles of the deacon, branches. For example, you no It is not an easy thing to lead especially in a time before there longer need to find a place for silence as a presider. Silent were many permanent deacons women to proclaim readings moments seem much longer to on hand,' so they were able to outside the sanctuary. Yes, it the person who is presiding fill roles such as pouring the was in the old GIRM. Also, over them than they actually precious blood and separating , while laudable, are. Because of this, it may be the into the are no longer required. necessary for the presider to plates. We are now being told count silently to make sure that they cannot fulfill these In terms of new growth, for there are at least ten seconds of roles. The document by the those who like to preach from silent prayer. Ifhe does this, it United States Catholic the aisle-congratulations, you won't be long before the Conference of entitled, may now do so with the presider can get a feeling for Norms for the Distribution and Church's blessing. The previ- the time and' finally pray him- Reception of Holy Communion ous GIRM said only from the self during these silent periods. Under Both Kinds in the ambo or (standing) at the chair; Soon, the assembly will learn Dioceses of the United States of the new one says "or another to pray during these silent America, explains this in suitable place." And another moments, too. The new GIRM greater detail and is well worth emendation is quite significant: points out that these silent reading. namely that the presider may moments ought to occur at the hold not only a piece of the bro- Opening Prayer, after the read- Regardless of the new restric- ken consecrated host but the ings and the homily, and after tions on lay ministers at Mass, chalice as well after the Lamb the communion song. it is quite clear that the church of God in order to invite the envisions the offering of the people to communion. This in An opposite of silence is cup to all present to be norma- itself clearly stresses the singing, and in #40 of the new tive at all Sunday gatherings. Church's desire that the people GIRM, there is an addition receive communion under both worth noting. It says that, II. MAss WITH A DEACON species. "every care should be taken The section "Mass with a that singing by the ministers This brings us to our second Deacon" is found in numbers and the people is not absent in major reassertion found in the 171 through 186 and every dea- celebrations that occur on new GIRM: Communion con should read these para- Sundays and holy days of obli- under both species. The new graphs III the new GIRM. gation." So you want to know GIRM has been rewritten in Before moving to the what's different in the new such a way that it envisions Introductory Rites, a few pre- GIRM? Sunday singing is not communion under both kinds liminary remarks need to be an option. There ought not to . as normative. In fact, they made. There should never be a be a 7:30 AM Sunday morning removed the line from the old need for more than two deacons golfers' Mass: out by eight, GIRM which stated that com- at your "average" Sunday Mass teeing off by nine. Singing is munion could be given under in a parish. While it is permis- one of the primary ways in both kinds at the discretion of sible for one deacon to do the which the assembly partici- the bishop, which is to say you role of the word while another pates III the liturgy and it no longer need the bishop's deacon does the role of the should not be left out of any permission to give out the altar, it is perfectly acceptable 12 Sunday Mass. ----..~.--

Gospel book does not bow to the altar but simply places it flat on the altar directly in the center, face down so it is in the correct position for the later in the Mass. Then he waits for the presider

t•••••••••• •••••• "'P.. 'IIiI1•.••~ ..••qJ'*•• ."'.:.c. and together they kiss the altar. Q)o""""''''''''QI,: Io,.·;.·.cn~'",«,,""""'(, cn..'c. •.• cI)••.c.·..,.~l ."0•.t;.... """"''£.. but if there are several deacons "' •.••.•••.•...•;..••.../N. ", •..A'. \n ft.,..,..•.,.·.~.",)o ed all around the presider giv- Co).~v .•·.1·"'~. ""'_".:Io.-.""~ ••,, ~"'""""'V'..t' •• '.~~.;" :I!I:..A,"': ing the appearance that the liturgy is being presided over by a committee. The role of the priest (or bishop) presider should not be obscured by other ordained ministers.

During the Act of Penitence, if for one deacon to serve the 30 minutes before Mass begins. option "C" is used, the deacon entire Mass. There is no such He should vest in an and a proclaims the invocations with thing as a "concelebrating" deacon and a as the "Lord have mercy." Please deacon, so except for the most the occasion warrants. If note that there are many differ- exceptional or festive cases, is used at Mass, the ent versions of this litany and only deacons needed to serve at deacon may assist the presider the one best suited for the sea- Mass ought to be vested at the in getting it ready immediately son of the church year or read- altar. before the procession begins. ings of the day should be cho- For the most part the presider sen. It is important to be heard: It ought to be pointed out here can handle this but making sure does the microphone at the that while the GIRM implies the charcoal is lit and the thu- chair need to be shared or is that if a deacon is present at rifer is in the right place at the there a portable microphone Mass, he should be serving, the right time is a godsend. It is that the deacon can prepare church does recognize that really the role of the presider to ahead of time and have ready many deacons are called to two actually place the incense in the for these and other moments? vocations: ordination and mar- . riage. It would never be the LITURGY OF THE WORD church's intention to separate The deacon always walks in During the Liturgy of the Word, husbands from wives or chil- procession carrying the Book of it is the deacon's role dren particularly during the cel- the Gospels and never the to proclaim the Gospel, and he ebration of the Mass, the ulti- Lectionary. The Lectionary is should not be superceded by a mate symbol of Christian unity. never processed in and should priest or even a bishop in this Even in parishes with only one be on the ambo open to the cor- role. If there are no readers deacon, they may do well to see rect page before Mass begins. present the deacon may pro- that at some Masses they are The deacon with the Gospel claim all the readings, but if still attending with their family. book walks in front of aU con- there are readers present, the This is something that needs to celebrating priests holding the deacon does not supercede be worked out with the pastor book slightly elevated. them in their role as readers. and the way deacons are sched- uled to serve at Mass. The deacon is never replaced There are several steps to doing by a in this role unless of a Gospel procession well. If course there is no deacon pres- INTRODUCTORY RITES incense is to be used, the dea- ent. A deacon carrying the con may assist the presider in The deacon should arrive 15 to 13 preparing it. When the music words of the Gospel wipe away Masses should be preached at for the begins, the dea- our sins." These are the only by the presiding bishop or con stands and asks for the prescribed words to be used at priest. Deacons may preach at presider's blessing and makes this time, and regardless of Mass, but that is something the when it is what you may have experi- which needs to be worked out given to him. Then he walks enced, they are not to be and planned accordingly with over to the altar and bows pro- changed. It is not "My brothers the pastor, especially given the foundly, and ideally as the very and sisters, the Lord be with number of deacons in a given first Alleluia is sung, the dea- you," but rather it is "The Lord parish. con lifts up the be with you." (Incidently, even reverently off the altar. He then in the new GIRM there is no The primary reason deacons processes to the ambo. indication that this is said with receive faculties to preach are arms extended). It is not at occasions at which they are The timing and coordination of "Today's reading comes to us presiding. By virtue of their this entire process needs to be from the Gospel of St. Luke." ordination deacons can preside choreographed with the music. It is "A reading from the holy at certain liturgies such as Remember that the purpose of Gospel according to Luke." It wakes, baptisms and weddings the acclamation is to accompa- is not "The good news of salva- which occur outside of Mass ny the procession, so it may be tion." It is "The Gospel of the but still require a homily. necessary for the acclamation Lord." If we respect the litur- to be extended. gy's language and rites, they It is the role of the deacon to will speak for themselves. proclaim the petitions during If incense and candles are used, When we add our own words the Prayer of the Faithful. The these precede the Gospel book and actions, we obscure the GIRM (71) says this should be to the ambo, again something language of the liturgy. done from the ambo or another to be carefully choreographed suitable place which could and rehearsed prior to the litur- If a bishop (not a priest) is pre- include the chair as long as you gy. Ideally, by the time the last siding, he has the option of have some kind of microphone note of the Alleluia is played kissing the Gospel book after it in order to be heard. Obviously the Gospel book should be is proclaimed by the deacon, you need to be sure that there is opened to the correct page and and in addition the bishop may a copy of the intercessions the deacon should be all ready bless the people with the readily available to the deacon to proclaim the Gospel (eye- Gospel book. The deacon must wherever he proclaims them glasses included). Otherwise, be informed beforehand if this from. this magnificently flowing is the case so he knows what to liturgical procession comes to a do, but unless you are told that When there is no deacon pres- screeching halt in an awkward the bishop wants to the kiss the ent they are read by a reader at silence while the deacon is try- Gospel book and bless the peo- the ambo. Obviously if neces- ing to find the page, etc. ple with it, you should presume sary and spatially feasible, the that it is not being done. If you deacon may proclaim them "The Lord be with you," should are told the bishop is going to from the ambo, too. Be certain be the first thing the people kiss the Gospel then you should to prepare before Mass by read- hear after the last note of the not kiss it. (GIRM 175) ing over and praying with the acclamation is played. The Gospel passage of the day and people respond and the deacon Finally, the Gospel book is to reviewing the wording of the says, "A reading from the holy be placed on the . Gospel according to John," and or another appropriate and dig- makes the sign of the cross over nified place which could LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST the text and then his forehead, include leaving it right on the After the Prayer of the Faithful, lips and heart. If incense is ambo itself. The floor is never all are seated and the deacon used now is the time he takes it an appropriate or dignified prepares the altar while the from the server and place. priest remains at the chair. This the book. should be done immediately The new GIRM reminds us in after the Prayer of the Faithful The Gospel is proclaimed and several places that the deacon during the collection so as not fmished with the words, "The may, on occasion, give the to delay things later. The dea- Gospel of the Lord." Then the homily at Mass (GIRM 171), but con moves with the priest to deacon kisses the Gospel while the ordinary homilist at any receive the gifts from the peo- saying privately, which means liturgy is the presider, which ple. or altar servers 14 no one is to hear it, "May the means that the majority of our may also assist. is to Priests minister the Body of accompany the action of the Christ and if there are more The deacon hands the priest the breaking of the bread: more plates than priests, deacons bread for Mass and adds the tropes can be added. or lay ministers can assist water to the wine saying as he them. Deacons minister the Blood of Christ and if there 'does so, "By the mystery of this 2. The ministers of communion are more cups than deacons, water and wine may we come are not to approach the altar priests or lay ministers can to share in the divinity of until the priest has received assist them. Christ, who humbled himself to communion. share in our humanity." Then he hands the chalice to the 7. After communion all 3. No self-communicating. priest. remaining Precious Blood The deacon is to receive must be consumed by the If incense is used he assists the under both species from the priest. Neither the deacon deacon, priest and/or priest with incensing the gifts, Ministers of Communion. nor any lay minister may altar, and cross. The deacon or The purifying and washing ever take communion as a Staff the server may incense the of sacred vessels may be priest or concelebrant does; Editor priest and the people. done by any ordained or lay they must receive it in the Rev. Charles Pinyan Minister of Communion, but During the Eucharistic Prayer customary fashion. Design/Layout normally should take place Rev. Michael C. Santoro the deacon stands near the after Mass has ended - and Editorial Board priest but slightly behind him 4. In the previous GIRM it said if during Mass, not at the Joan Conroy so he may assist the priest with that the deacon was to altar. Sr. Sandra DeMasi, SSJ the chalice or the book. At the receive from the cup after Rev. Thomas A. Dente end of the Eucharistic Prayer the faithful: this is no 8. Finally, another change in Rev. Peter K. Funesti the deacon holds the chalice longer the case in the new the communion rite which Dr. E. Regina Giuliani while the priest holds the plate GIRM which clearly says Rev. Msgr. Richard Groncki affects deacons and all for the . The deacon that the deacon must receive Rev. Thomas B. Iwanbwski present is the sign of does not sing or say the doxol- under both species after the Sr. Marlene Milasus, OSB ogy - only the priest says it. priest. reverence to be made before Sr. Gerardine Mueller, OP receiving communion: a Please remember to hold the Rev. Michael C. Santoro simple bow of the head to chalice at the same height as 5. According to the new the Body and Blood of Contributors the plate and put it down when norms, only ordained Christ before receiving each. Rev. Thomas A. Dente the priest puts the plate down. ministers can hand the and the staff of the Worship Office communion vessels to the After the Prayer forPeace, it is CONCLUDING RITES Subscription Information ministers of communion, so the deacon's role to invite the One year subscription to Word on be conscious of this and The new GIRM says that after assembly to share the sign of Worship, 4 issues, $10.00. Special ready to assist the priest in the Prayer after Communion peace. Bulk rate, five or more issues to the handing out the vessels if the deacon can make brief same address, $8.50 per year per necessary. Make certain this announcements, if indeed any subscription. Foreign subscription, COMMUNION RITE is done with reverence and need to be made. (184) Every $13.50 per year. To begin your There are several changes to be dignity, in a slow and careful little thing does not need to be subscription call 973-497-4345. noted in the new GIRM during manner. announced at Mass. Indeed, the Communion Rite for both only those things which are Website: www.rcan.orglworship directly related to the pastoral deacons and lay ministers of 6. The deacon's primary role in life of the church should be communion. (See Norms #37- the communion rite is to made at this time so it is visible 40) distribute the Blood of how they connect to the Christ. Just as the deacon Eucharistic life of the parish. 1. Only ordained ministers may assists with the chalice The priest may also make the break the bread and pour the during the Eucharistic announcements. cup during the Lamb of Prayer, now he gives itto God. Ordinarily the deacon the people. A priest Ifthere is a prayer over the peo- should pour out the ordinarily gives out the ple or a solemn blessing at the and the priest separate the Body of Christ and a deacon end of Mass, the deacon says, hosts into the plates. This ordinarily gives out the "Bow your heads and pray for may take a little longer and Blood of Christ. Priests and God's blessing." This follows the music minister should be deacons do not minister the immediately after the priest alerted to this change. Like Body of Christ and lay says, "The Lord be with you." the Gospel acclamation, the ministers minister the cups. 15 Then the deacon dismisses the It is directed that the Act of sary until it becomes second people by saying "The Mass is Penitence and the Opening nature. It will be necessary to ended, go in peace." Prayer ought to be done from explain not only how it is to be the chair, not the altar. (GIRM, done but why it is being done. The deacon kisses the altar with 256 - 258) the priest, makes a bow and The reason for this change processes out. The Gospel Also III liturgies where a comes from the CSL's call for book is not processed out as the is used such as on full, conscious, active partici- People of God who have heard Pentecost it used to follow the pation by the people at Mass. the word of God proclaimed are format of Alleluia, Sequence, The request to stand at this now themselves the bearers of Gospel; now it is Sequence, moment magnifies the dialogi- the word as they leave at the Alleluia, Gospel. (GIRM,64) cal nature of the liturgy end of Mass. between presider and assembly. Note the following difference The priest is standing as he A FEW MORE SIGNIFICANT in posture during the prepara- speaks and the people are now CHANGES tion of gifts from the previous required to stand in order to GIRM to the new one: reply, just as when someone The altar cross is to have the walks into a room, a polite per- image of Christ crucified on it. Previous GIRM son stands to greet them. So (GIRM, 117,308) here the people stand to reply to PRIEST: the priest's call to prayer. Nothing extraneous is to be Pray, brethren, that this our sac- placed on the altar like flowers rifice may be acceptable to God The new GIRM says that the (GIRM, 305). This means that the almighty Father. priest is bound to receive com- only Eucharistic vessels and munion from what has been elements, the Sacramentary PEOPLE: consecrated at that Mass which and, if necessary, the cross and May the Lord accept the sacri- is not altogether new, but it puts candles for Mass may be placed fice at your hands for the praise that in the context of the faith- on the altar. The so called and glory of his name, for our ful doing the same: "It is most "wedding candle" or "unity good, and the good of all his desirable that the faithful, just candle," is never to be placed church. as the priest himself is bound to on the altar. A side table or do, receive the Lord's Body stand should be employed for ASSEMBLY STANDS from hosts consecrated at the this or any other object needed same Mass and that ... they par- during a Mass (ashes, holy 2002 GIRM take of the chalice" (GIRM, 85). water, etc). It also particularly notes in 157 PRIEST: that a host consecrated at that Even at Mass with just a minis- Pray, brethren, that this our Mass must be held up to invite ter, readings should be done sacrifice may be acceptable to people for communion. from the ambo. God the almighty Father. This is the third major reasser- On solemn occasions, the use ASSEMBLY STANDS tion of the new GIRM: of more precious is Communion from the Altar. In encouraged. (GIRM, 346) PEOPLE: simple terms, what the new May the Lord accept the sacri- GIRM is saying here is to stop If there is a tabernacle in the fice at your hands for the serving communion from the sanctuary, one ordinarily genu- praise and glory of his name, tabernacle at Mass. One could flects only twice during Mass for our good, and the good of argue that people who receive - at the beginning of the litur- all his church. from the tabernacle are experi- gy as you approach the sanctu- encing more of a communion ary before reverencing the altar, It is absolutely necessary that service than a Mass. Although and at the end after reverencing the people be informed about it certainly fulfills their Sunday the altar. All other times mov- this change ahead of time, with obligation, receiving from the ing through the sanctuary you information in the bulletin for tabernacle is a less than perfect bow to the altar. (GIRM, 274) example, and that it be clearly sign of their participation in the An exception would be when opening the tabernacle to repose explained at Mass before it is Eucharist. The assembly has a any consecrated hosts not distrib- tried. A simple gesture with right not just to receive com- uted during communion. the hands by the priest or the munion but to fully participate to remind the assembly in the Sacrament of the 16 when to stand may be neces- Eucharist at which they are participating. It takes planning , but now it is per- witness value that speaks to us and an awareness of how many mitted in 43. In the United of who we are as church. That people come to each parish States it is up to each bishop to is certainly no less true of the Mass, but it can and should be decide and the bishops of New deacon. To take a ministry and done out of respect for the spir- Jersey have agreed that the peo- establish it as ordained means itual lives of all those assem- ple should kneel from after the that it is central to the faith and bled for worship. singing of the Lamb of God immensely important in our until they stand to receive com- understanding of who we are. Obviously we need hosts in the munion. They may, however, To further give that ministry tabernacle for prayer and for remain standing when they specific roles in the liturgy the sick. And yes, if you run return to their pews until all means that all this order stands out of hosts during communion have received communion. for needs to be clearly before of course you may take some us, reminding us of who we are from the tabernacle. But the The GIRM is quite clear in 160 and what we ought to be. practice of regularly going to that there may be no self-com- the tabernacle during the Lamb municating by the faithful. In The ministry of the deacon can of God for hosts for the assem- other words, no lay minister or be summed up in one single bly should not be happening. deacon should ever take a host word: service. Lives of service The intention at the beginning from a plate and receive it or begin right in the Mass itself It of every Mass should be to con- pick up a cup from the altar and should be abundantly clear that secrate enough hosts for all drink it. Communion is to be the purpose of every liturgical who are present. appropriately given by the min- minister is to serve the assem- ister and respectfully received bly. Ministers are not ministers The doxology at the end of the by the faithful. to be on display before the peo- Eucharistic Prayer is only pro- ple, but they are there first and claimed by the priest(s) and not III. THE DEACON AT MAss by the deacon or the assembly. Sometimes with all of these The doxology is the great end- rubrics and rules, we can lose ing of the Eucharistic Prayer touch with the fact that the (Through him, with him, in liturgy and the prayer life of the him ..."), and just as only the church is not meant to be an priest says, "We ask this end in itself but rather a means through Christ our Lord" at the to an end. The purpose of the end of the presidential prayers, church's liturgy is to do several so too does the priest say or things, namely to remember sing the doxology. It is the role and experience firsthand for of the assembly, however, to ourselves the revealed presence sing the Great Amen after- of God through the person of wards. (GIRM, 236) Jesus Christ and to respond to God through Christ with The priest and ministers of the expressions of faith. The litur- altar are not to go wandering gy also serves to unite us as around the church for the sign members of God's family, to of peace. The purpose of this strengthen us to build God's rite is to recognize the unifying kingdom and most importantly presence of Christ within the to form us into the body of assembly, so the impression Christ. that the peace is handed down from the priest to the people is We do not want to become like to be avoided. It has been the very people Jesus criticized noted, however, that at such in the gospels who understood events as weddings or well the laws of the Sabbath but or when a special dignitary is completely forgot its purpose. present, the presider may greet The CSL stresses the impor- some of the assembly tance of the entire assembly (GIRM,154). and its symbolic value reveal- ing the presence of Christ, but In the previous GIRM, there the ordained ministers also was no indication that the carry with them an important assembly was to kneel for the foremost to serve those who geously by the deacon. The Works Cited come to worship. Gospels frequently portray I. General Instruction of the Jesus as forgiving sinners and Roman Missal (United States Kevin Irwin, a liturgical theolo- touching the outcast. He heals Conference of Catholic gian, said that, "I would think the sick and feeds the hungry Bishops, Washington, DC, that the relationship of the dea- and he is always deeply con- 2002). con's service at the altar and to cerned with issues of justice. the poor images for all of us the 2. Msgr. Kevin Irwin, "Models of kind of ministerial life which The Prayer of the Faithful pro- the Eucharist" (Origins Vol.3l:No.3, May 31, 2001). Eucharistic participation pre- claimed by the deacon ties the sumes." In other words, before needs of the world with the the deacon opens his mouth to action of the Eucharist. The 3. Fr. James Moroney, Address to preach the Gospel or hands the intercessions should not simply National Association of Diaconate Directors, April 20, people the Blood of Christ, he ask God to cure all ills and cast 200 I, Phoenix, AZ (See sidebar is by his very presence a sym- out all evil, but they should ask in "Models of the Eucharist" bol which ties the liturgical cel- God to strengthen Church and Origins Vol.3l :No.3, May 31, ebration of the Eucharist with world leaders as well as local 2001). the needs of the poor. The dea- Church members to be God's con, whose first calling is to hands and eyes and prophetic 4. Norms for the Distribution and serve those most in need, is a voice in the world. Reception of Holy Communion witness of God's real presence Under Both Kinds in the in the world made manifest As the United States Bishops' Dioceses of the United States of through the outreach of the document on Permanent America (United States church, particularly in the local Deacons states: "He has a spe- Conference of Catholic parish community in which he cial responsibility to identify to Bishops, Washington, DC, serves. the Church those who are in 2002). need and particularly those who Fr. James Moroney of the U.S. are without power or voice at 5. Permanent Deacons in the bishop's liturgical office put it the margins of our society ... in United States (National Conference of Catholic this way: "For just as the the Church, he is to speak about Bishops, Washington, D.C., the needy and to inspire and Eucharistic celebration is the 1984). source of all authentic Christian mobilize the whole communi- spirit and the summit of the ty's response." (Permanent Bibliography entire Christian life, what the Deacons, 37) church does at liturgy is the prototype for what (it) does in It is the task of the deacon to I. Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy (Second Vatican life. The deacon servant of the keep the prayer life of the Council, 1963). poor is thus the deacon servant Church from becoming hollow of the altar." or hypocritical. He is to make certain that the Eucharist bears 2. Introduction to the Order of the Mass (United States Conference It is very true that everything fruit in the world by setting an of Catholic Bishops, we do in the liturgy must ritual- example of service and leading Washington, DC, 2003). ize a lived reality. The bread others in selfless acts of charity and wine becoming the real in the world. 3. Dennis C. Smolarski, SJ, The presence of Christ only takes General Instruction of the on meaning when that presence Roman Missal 1969 - 2002 A is made manifest in the world, Rev. Thomas A. Dente Commentary (The Liturgical especially to those most suffer- Associate Director, Liturgical Press, Collegeville, MN, 2003). ing and in need. A true symbol Formation participates in the reality it sig- Worship Office nifies. Deacons at liturgy call the assembly to live out the Eucharist they receive through lives of service.

This cry for justice is especial- ly heard in the proclamation of the Gospel. The Gospel mes- sages, sometimes discomfort- 18 ing, are proclaimed coura- CONCERNING THE POSTURES WHEN RECEIVING HOLY COMMUNION

The INSTITUTIO GENERALIS MISSALIS ROMANI 2002 (GIRM) number 160 gives four postures involved in the action of receiving Holy Communion.

1. PROCESSING The communion procession is an action of the Body of Christ. At Christ s invitation, extended by the priest acting in the person of Christ: happy are they who are called to his supper, the members of the community come forward to share in the sacred meal. The Communion procession should move with such dignity.

2. BOWING OF THE HEAD The General Instruction directs the communicant to make a sign of reverence, to be determined by the bishops of each country or region, before receiving Communion while standing. The bishops of this country have determined that the sign is to be a bow, a gesture through which we express our reverence and give honor to Christ who comes to us as our spiritual food. The GIRM, 275 explains two kinds of bows: a bow of the head and a bow of the body. The US bishops have determined that the sign of reverence to be made before receiving communion is a BOW OF THE HEAD.

3. STANDING The norm for reception of Holy Communion in the dioceses of the United States is standing.

4. RECEPTION OF THE SACRAMENT Holy Communion under the form of bread is offered to the communicant with the words The Body of Christ. The consecrated host may be received either on the tongue or in the hand, at the discretion of each communicant (GIRM 160). When receiving the sacrament in the hand, one hand is placed palm up, on top of the other hand. Ancient writ- ers called this gesture making a throne for Christ the King. After receiving the sacrament in the hand, the communi- cant takes a short step to the side, stops for a brief moment and then reverently takes the consecrated host using the hand which is under the hand holding the host, places it in the mouth and consumes the host. The chalice is offered to the communicant with the words The Blood of Christ, to which the communicant responds, Amen. REMEM- BER attention should be paid to what is determined by the General Instruction rather than private inclination or arbitrary choice.

A common posture, to be observed by all participants, is a sign of the unity of the members of the Christian communi- ty gathered for the sacred Liturgy: it both expresses and fosters the intention and spiritual attitude of the participants. (GIRM 42)

Thank YOU! Welcome!

The staff of the Worship Office The staff of the Worship Office would like to extend a would like to welcome heartfelt thanks to Rev. Thomas Dente Rev. ChCD'lesPinyan for his work, energy, and dedication as the new editor of as editor of Word on Worship. Word on Worship. dUb, 19 Summer Special! Order by September 3D! !JJlll The Best of WORD ON WORSHIP For the past 20 years Word on Worship, the newsletter of the Worship Office of the Archdiocese of Newark, has been a resource for people to grow in their knowledge and appreciation of the liturgy. This collection reprints in one volume many of the outstanding articles offered on a variety of topics over the years. It will be an invaluable resource for many and a fitting of this special ~r.The Best of I bl C Word anniversary. Limited Avai a e opies. Worship Cover price $19.95 Summer Special $10.00

To order call: (973) 497-4345, Fax (973) 497- 4348 or 4031 or mail this order form to: THE WORsmp OFFICE, PO Box 9500, NEWARK,N.J 07104-0500

NAME ------PARISH ------

ADDRESS ------CITY ------STATE ZIP------

I Quantity Item Unit Price Total The Best of WORD ON WORSHIP $10.00

FOR SHIPPING AND HANDLING ADD $3 X NUMBER OF BOOKS

TOTAL

NON·PROFIT ORG. Worship Office u.s. POSTAGE PO Box 9500 PAID Newark, NJ 07104-0500 Permit No. 5406 NEWARK, NJ

Top View