Communion Rails?

 

 

I came across an article about the use/return of communion rails in Catholic Churches.

I read the theological reasoning around the purpose of them, as well as the necessity of distinguishing the sanctuary and the altar from the nave (where the people congregate.)

The sanctuary is to be distinct and set apart, something many churches accomplish by raising it up on steps. Go into any Catholic Church and you will probably not have any trouble distinguishing the sanctuary from where the people sit, even without a rail.

I read a number of arguments in favor of churches installing communion rails. I could make an equal number of solid arguments against doing so.

But I won't.

You see, to argue about something like that just promotes division in a place where unity is called for. When we receive Jesus, we are called to be in union with him, and it would be wrong to let an altar rail be a point of contention.

You like using a rail? Then use it. You don't like it? Then don't. 

But for the love of God, and your brothers and sisters with whom you worship, don't fight about it.

Do you really, honestly think that it makes any difference to God whether we stand or kneel at a rail or in a communion line? 

I think it mostly makes a difference to us.

I believe that in God's eyes, he's just glad we showed up. From what I read, his desire is to draw all of us close to him so that we may share in his "own blessed life." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, Prologue ¶ 1)

Let us be grateful for his love for us and keep our eye on loving and serving him as best we can.

Janet Cassidy
Email me at:  jmctm2@gmail.com

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