GIRM: Posture/Bowing during Consecration
            QUESTION from Dave on May 22, 2004

Hello, In Ohio (Toledo area) we were advised that although kneeling was the norm during the Consecration, that if a church did not already have kneelers, that standing would be the norm in those cases (an expression of Unity being emphasized as the key goal). It was explained that this would not put a financial burden on those parishes to replace kneelers, while still maintaining a sign of unity. Thus, those who had been kneeling during the consecration (without kneelers present) were asked to stand as part of the new GIRM requirements. Furthermore, when standing is required during the consecration, we are now required 2 profound bows (each at the precise moment that the priest genuflects before the newly consecrated species). In seeking to be obedient I have followed these norms. Nevertheless, I find them very uncomfortable and even distracting (ie. waiting to bow in synch with everyone at the precise moment the priest genuflects). My doubts grew further when I read somewhere that lack of kneelers was no excuse (for the able-bodied) for not kneeling during the Consecration. Thus, now I am confused as to what is really required. I wish to be obedient (if the orders/presentation of GIRM guidelines are legitimate). Would it be wrong for me to kneel during the consecration even when kneelers are not available (thus avoiding those distracting profound bows during the consecration, etc.)? Your clarification of the GIRM requirements in this case would be appreciated. Regards and Thanks, Dave