Category Archives: The Armchair Liturgist

Did you notice a longer or shorter Gospel reading this past weekend? In my last parish, the pastor preferred long versions whenever there was a choice. In my new parish, it’s up to each of our retired priests, as far … Continue reading →

In the northern hemisphere, it is harvest time in rural areas. Depending on the crop, of course. For art & environment groups in parishes, it is time to roll in seasonal decorations. What I’ve seen in parishes for the last … Continue reading →

With a side theme of the recent discussion at PrayTell about the Book of the Chair, I was surprised this topic never came up for the purple armchair: electronic books for Mass, Lectionary, Missal, and even music. What do you … Continue reading →

At my last parish, when we had a rare funeral, daily Mass at noon would be “cancelled,” and people were invited to worship at 11am, 10:30, or the late morning time when we scheduled with the family and funeral home. … Continue reading →

At PrayTell, check out a discussion on holding doors for people on the outside of the church building. But here’s a question for you armchair liturgists: do you recommend your clergy–priests and deacons–greet people *before Mass* like Chuck Middendorf’s pastor? … Continue reading →

One down, and one to go, regarding those Passion narratives. How would you guide people in your faith community? Are there circumstances when standing is not advised? As for kneeling after the words telling of the death of the Lord, … Continue reading →