As we soon celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, let us reflect on the significance of this holy day. According to tradition, the wise men, often called kings, are linked to Psalm 72:10-11:

“May the kings of Tarshish and of the isles render him tribute, may the kings of Sheba and Seba bring gifts. May all kings fall down before him, all nations give him service.”

This passage underscores the reverence shown to Christ by even the most powerful rulers, who fall to their knees in adoration. So we have to ask out of profound worship for the Eucharist why is it that Cardinal Cupich forcefully feels that the faithful should refrain from kneeling to receive our Eucharistic Lord?

The New Testament, in Matthew 2:9-12, narrates the journey of the wise men who, upon finding the child Jesus, “prostrated themselves and did him homage.” They brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh—expressions of their deep devotion. This humble act of kneeling before Jesus has been an integral part of Catholic worship for centuries dating back to the Magi.

In Bethlehem (meaning “House of Bread) was laid the Christ Child in the trough, and all bowed down to venerate Him.

Yet, Cardinal Cupich’s recent address suggested that the faithful refrain from kneeling during Communion to maintain a smoother flow and avoid drawing attention to oneself. This prompts a deeper reflection on our Eucharistic devotion and the time-honored traditions that have nurtured our reverence.

Saint Francis of Assisi, known for his deep humility, ardently encouraged kneeling before the Eucharist:

“When it is sacrificed on the altar by a priest and carried anywhere, let all peoples praise, glorify and honor on bended knee the Lord God, living and true.”  – St. Francis of Assisi Eucharistic Mystic and Reformer

Kneeling, a gesture born of awe and respect, has long shown our humility and adoration of the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

After Christmas, a woman confided in me her inclination to begin kneeling to receive the Blessed Sacrament. I encouraged her, sensing the Holy Spirit’s guidance in her heart. My 15-year-old granddaughter who was with me, too, felt the holy righteousness of this act. Kneeling naturally leads to receiving the Eucharist on the tongue, a practice reinforced by the Council of Rouen in 878 and St. Thomas Aquinas, who stated that “only the consecrated fingers of a priest should touch the host” (Summa Theologiae IIIa, Q82, a3).

Some may observe who else receives Communion on the tongue or while kneeling, but our concern should be solely for what pleases God. Kneeling and receiving the Eucharist on the tongue is a profound act of humility and submission, much like the homage paid by the Three Kings.

Our external actions deeply influence our internal dispositions. In other words: What we do externally (on the outside) affects how we feel on the inside.

What we do reflects what we believe.

Lex Orandi, Lex Credendi.

By kneeling and receiving the Eucharist on the tongue, we acknowledge the divine mystery we partake in and allow this act of humility to transform us inwardly. This reverence is not a mere ritual but a testament to our faith and a witness to those around us. If we were to see our Lord before us, would we stand or drop to our knees? Knowing the answer, why would we do anything less for the Eucharistic Jesus?

In a world where the sacred often yields to convenience, our commitment to Eucharistic reverence can inspire others. By choosing to kneel, we set an example of faith, demonstrating our belief in the profound mystery of the Eucharist. We join countless generations of believers who have expressed their devotion through this humble act.

While the installation of kneelers would facilitate the reverent practice of kneeling, there appears to be a reluctance among bishops and priests to do so. One must question why there is resistance to a practice that fosters greater piety, especially when parishioners have pleaded for them. It is perplexing given the bishops are attempting to emphasize greater reverence for the Eucharist after concluding their three year Eucharistic renewal and since they know the results of the Real Presence Coalition survey which revealed the #1 survey finding that would restore belief in the real presence was to receive Communion on the tongue while kneeling.

Priests and bishops may advocate for standing during communion based on modern liturgical norms over the past 45 years, emphasizing the symbolism of the resurrected Lord and new life in Christ. They argue that standing fosters a sense of fellowship. Yet, we must ask:

1. Why did the Church uphold offering Communion to the faithful while kneeling on the tongue for nearly 2,000 years?

2. What has been the loss of believe in the Real Presence since the practice of standing and receiving in the hand since this modern practice took place?

3. Why do we still kneel for the Consecration if standing is so reverent?

4. Who should be the focus during the Liturgy of the Eucharist—the Congregation or Christ?

As we navigate these times of change within our Church, let us hold fast to the traditions that enrich our spiritual lives. Let us be unwavering in our devotion and bold in our witness. By living our faith authentically and reverently, we can inspire a renewed appreciation for the Eucharist in our communities.

May our actions reflect our beliefs and may our reverence for the Eucharist shine as a beacon of faith for all to see.