To Kneel or not to Kneel: That is the Question

So I'm something of a church hopper. There's one church that's about five minutes from my house, and another that's about twenty. I prefer the latter for several reasons, but I think the main one is because they kneel during the consecration there. At the former (which is technically my parish), they stand.

It really confused me the first time I was there. I didn't like it. At the time, it was mostly because it was different, not what I was used to. I had grown up going to a Catholic school, attending mass during the school week and almost every Sunday. We kneeled. Always.


Now, though, after having grown so much in my faith, it's more about what happens during the consecration that fuels my desire to kneel. That is Jesus Christ, my Savior, my Lord, physically before me. How could I not fall to my knees before Him and all that He is?


I've been trying to think of reasons for not kneeling, and the only one I've come up with is that kneeling is uncomfortable and so distracts people from focusing on the Eucharist. Honestly, I think that's a little silly. Jesus endured three hours of horrible pain, and He never lost sight of the Father or of love. I know, I know, He's Jesus. But we can at least try for Him. For me, kneeling helps me focus, reminds me of the miracle, of the sacrifice.

Come, Holy Spirit

My Confirmation class with the Bishop after mass. What a beautiful night.