With these next posts of HCWEOM 93-100, we look at the Rite of Eucharistic Exposition and Benediction (REEB).
The rite offers all red, no black on what to do:
93. After the people have assembled, a song may be sung while the minister comes to the altar. If the holy eucharist is not reserved at the altar where the exposition is to take place, the minister puts on a humeral veil and brings the sacrament from the place of reservation; he is accompanied by servers or by the faithful with lighted candles.
The ciborium or monstrance should be placed upon the table of the altar which is covered with a cloth. If exposition with the monstrance is to extend over a long period, a throne in an elevated position may be used, but this should not be too lofty or distant. (Eucharisticum Mysterium 62) After exposition, if the monstrance is used, the minister incenses the sacrament. If the adoration is to be lengthy, he may then withdraw.
Here’s the outline: we get an optional song, which seems to make the most sense to do. The minister processes with candlebearers. Note the possibility of a throne, but the recommendation that the Sacrament not be lofty or distant from the people. Another endorsement for a separate chapel.
If the exposition follows Mass, the concluding rites are omitted. Is that how you do it at your parishes? Incense seems optional, but it’s a good thing to add if possible, I’d think.
94. In the case of more solemn and lengthy exposition, the host should be consecrated in the Mass which immediately precedes the exposition and after communion should be placed in the monstrance upon the altar. The Mass ends with the prayer after communion, and the concluding rites are omitted. Before the priest leaves, he may place the blessed sacrament on the throne and incense it.
Comments?
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