The danger lies in the view that things had changed regarding ‘the principles of liturgy and liturgical architecture articulated by the Church since the Second Vatican Council’.

Further, it was certainly not my intention to use this post to suggest that the renovation of the church (at least at this point) is a product of shared vision. Rather, I hoped that it would encourage people to consider what can be achieved when people share common ideals and values. I believe the historical examples I named are appropriate.

Certainly, it is our hope that parishioners will feel a sense of ownership of, and a belief they have contributed to, the process of renovating our church. We believe that it is an important ideal that we should strive towards. We also realise that ideas that are proposed may not be met by all with mutual enthusiasm, and that discernment, consensus and even compromise are integral to the journey we hope to take.

What foundation, then, do we base such discernment, consensus and compromise on? Not on the ideas of individuals or new trends tried here or there. Instead, the foundation of our work is the liturgical documents of the Church, composed during, and as a result of the Second Vatican Council. These documents set down the principles upon which any work such as ours should be based. The expertise within our own parish, as well as those of professionals such as Fr Stephen will be invaluable.

One of the points that Fr Stephen made last Wednesday is that we approach our renovations at a very good time. Many parishes made extensive renovations in the years following Vatican II which they now need to reconsider in the light of experience and hindsight. We can learn from the journeys they have taken as we shape a space that reflects the beliefs, values and vision of the entire parish.

Thank you for your comments to date and I encourage you to contribute to our discussions with parishioners in the upcoming months.

Robert Barden
Liturgy Coordinator

I am very concerned at the movement by some people in the parish packaging the renovation as shared vision. I would be very careful at making such claims. After all given that we can all be swayed by new things and ideas, promises of shared vision is too ominous.

Thank you for your comment. I can tell you that this practice does happen in some parishes in Australia as well as the United States. From my experience, the motivation is typically to instill in people a sense of unity and belonging to the Body of Christ which has gathered to worship, and build up a sense of community.

As for your question, there is not any reference to this practice in the General Instruction. The primary ritual intended to gather the people together is the Entrance chant (or song), as indicated in no. 47 of the GIRM (US and Australian versions):

“The purpose of this chant is to… foster the unity of those who have been gathered…”

The only greeting which the GIRM anticipates and requires is the liturgical greeting made after the Sign of the Cross, as noted in no. 50:

“Then he signifies the presence of the Lord to the community gathered there by means of the Greeting. By this Greeting and the people’s response, the mystery of the Church gathered together is made manifest.”

The GIRM does not set requirements for what happens outside Mass, so it does not permit or prohibit any practices before Mass. Having said that, there is an expectation that what occurs before Mass helps prepare the assembly in heart and mind for the impending celebration.

It may also be of interest to you that the placement of the Sign of Peace in the Mass is a topic that is currently under consideration. It would be interesting to see if some parishes’ practices would change if the Sign of Peace were brought forward to after the Prayer of the Faithful, for example (which appears to be the most favoured alternative).

Personally, I appreciate the desire of the communities where this occurs to build community spirit. I wonder, however, if the perceived need to include such an additional ritual is an indication of a lack of true hospitality occurring as people approach and enter the church before Mass. Perhaps a community welcoming each other like this is a greater challenge, especially as people want to move into the church quickly to escape the elements, spend some time praying before Mass (which they’re fully entitled, to do, I might add), or to make sure they get their seat (yes, every parish has those people).

Thank you again for your question. I hope this has helped.

Regards,

Robert Barden
Liturgy Coordinator

I will appreciate your swift response.
Marilyn Schepansky

May I ask for your opinion on the receiving of communion.

Let’s say that the swine flu is not in consideration.

What is your opinion on the variety of ‘ways’ the people now receive communion – by hand or on the tongue? I hear that in past times it was only received by the tounge upon kneeling, but in even more ancient times it may also have been received by hand.

As much as I believe that receiving communion by the hand (and standing up) may be true in history, I just suspect that in its reintroducing it has taken away from our minds (albeit in the subconcious) the great mystery of this gift.

would appreciate to hear your views.