Sitting
by Paul Turner

At work, at play, at meals, but especially at rest -- oh how we love to sit. Whether we collapse into a cushy chair, sweaty from the sun, or scooch up to the breakfast table after a good night's rest, sitting signals relaxation. It helps us veg out, turn off our attention, and defy the world to entertain us as best it can. Even bicycle riders endure the rigors of exercising while enjoying the pleasures of sitting down.

Because so much of leisure comes by sitting, we can settle too deeply for relaxation whenever we sit at Mass. Normally the parts of the Mass which call for our active participation see us standing: singing songs, reciting the creed, praying the Lord's Prayer, and sharing communion, for example. But once in a while we sit. We sit for the readings, the responsorial psalm, the homily, the preparation of the altar and the gifts, and usually during the thanksgiving after communion. Obviously these are not moments of complete rest. Even when we sit, we do something at Mass. We listen. We pray. We reflect. We open our hearts to God's Spirit.

Consequently, the sitting we do at Mass promotes neither inactivity nor intermission. The Scripture readings above all demand heedful concentration. Unnecessary activity during these times of the Mass make it difficult for us and other worshipers alike to sit attentively.

After the service, we can better enjoy the relaxation which sitting invites. We can linger a little longer to converse with those who share our faith. Then leisure leads to relationship. Although sitting at Mass still solicits our attention, sitting after Mass relaxes and builds up the muscles of the Body of Christ.

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Copyright © 1998, Resource Publications, Inc. 160 E. Virginia St. #290, San Jose, CA 95112, (408) 286-8505. This article may not be reproduced in any form without permission from the publisher.  For permission e-mail info@rpinet.com.
Paul Turner, pastor of St. Munchin Parish in Cameron, MO, holds a doctorate in sacramental theology from Sant' Anselmo University in Rome.