Talk:Nortish Rite

Postures

Standing Standing is the “ordinary” posture assumed by the rubrics during the Mass. Hands should be kept together if not holding items. It is not common outside of processions, hymns, the Creed or the Gospel.

Sitting Sitting is the posture adopted for penitence. Sitting on one knee is also permitted when there are no seats. This is similar to bending the knee, although the head is not bowed.

Nodding It is customary to nod or bow the head (and “bend the knees of the heart”) at the name of Jesus, the Trinity and important Saints. This is especially obvious at the Gloria Patri when the head is bowed through the entire verse. It is also done towards crosses.

Bowing Bowing the body is done when passing, approaching or leaving an altar. It is also done at the Et incarnatus est and towards dignities.

Bending Bending the knee, or genuflecting, whilst nodding the head, is the form of bowing used for females.

Kneeling Kneeling is done on both knees. It is used for prayer and to shew respect. It is also the posture adopted when receiving the sacraments.

Falling Falling down, or prostration is a sign of penitence.