Actions
and Attitudes
In
The expression of the congregation's participation is often
confined to song. Other actions or attitudes are ordinarily
less in value. To sancd, to kneel, to smile when offering
the Sign of Peace, to walk to Communion: this is the whole
range of actions and attitudes proposed to our assemblies.
I almost forgot to add another action which ordinarily takes
place during the Creed: the one where men reach into their
pockets and lidies open and close their handbags in a significant
click-clack. It is the collection rite, a liturgical action
that no celebration would omit. Outside of these actions
and attitudes no others are forseen.
We
might ask if other actions or attitudes would not also be
desirable. To raise hands, to prostrate oneself, to clap
hands, to bow, to dance, or more simply to look at a beautiful
icon or listen to a beautiful record (if ther is no organ)
could become excellent forms of liturgical expression.
You
might say, "These are some very hazardous innovations,
even dangerous for the tranquility of our celebrations.
You are innovating uproar." I shall answer,
