Sit, Stand, Kneel: A Guide to Catholic Mass

Why do Catholics make the sign of the cross or share a sign of peace at mass? Sit, stand, and kneel throughout the liturgy? Fr. Kevin has all the answers to Catholic Acrobatics on Sunday.

Video Transcript

Father Kevin Grove: Mondays, chest and triceps. Wednesday, leg days. Friday, back and biceps. Sunday? Sit, stand, kneel? I know. Mass can be a workout.

Like Crossfit or Pilates, Mass is exercise for your spiritual health.

When we stand, we greet Christ in the Gospel.

Gospel Stands (Quads — Hamstrings)

Father Kevin Grove: When we kneel, we recognize that God is God, and we are not.

Knee Busters (Glutes — Shins)

Father Kevin Grove: We fold our hands as a sign of bringing union to things that are different.

Prayer Hands (Biceps — Forearms)

Father Kevin Grove: We share signs of peace to recognize that this road of life separates and hurts us.

Sign of Peace (Triceps – Palms); Eye contact!

Father Kevin Grove: Moving up and down and shaking hands and ultimately receiving the Eucharist, we become one again in Christ. This is how Mass transforms you.

If you haven’t been in a while, you may be a bit sore the next day, but use it as inspiration to return and get in the best spiritual shape of your life.