> From: Bill East [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
>
> Actually everyone bows to the altar; it would be incorrect to genuflect.
>
> Genuflexion (on the right knee) is a gesture of adoration peformed only to
> God.
> One performs it before the Blessed Sacrament, which Catholics believe to
> be God.
> Altars however are not God, but simply objects which are venerated with a
> bow.
>
Thank you for the correction which is indeed true. What I was
describing was the practice, which, as you noted, does not always reflect
the theology behind the action.
<snip>
> However, there are plenty in my own church, and probably in every church,
> who genuflect regardless. They even genuflect on during the Easter
> Triduum
> when the sacrament is not present at all. This is the product of careless
> instruction.
>
I've also noticed that many bow to the main altar, then rush on by
the side altar where the Sacrament is reserved. Careless instruction may be
at least partially at fault; careless implementation is probably
responsible, too.
Francine
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