Legionary of Christ Father Edward McNamara answers liturgy questions

Father Edward McNamara, a professor of liturgy and sacramental theology at the Pontifical Regina Apostolorum University, addressed questions regarding the orientation of the celebrant during Mass.

Regarding the placement of the chair, McNamara noted that the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) 310 prefers the chair be positioned so the celebrant faces the people at the head of the sanctuary. The GIRM acknowledges that sanctuary design or the central location of the tabernacle behind the altar may require different positioning.

McNamara also addressed a perceived difference between the Order of Mass (OM) and the GIRM concerning the Introductory Rites. The OM states that the priest faces the people while saying the Sign of the Cross after the entrance chant. In contrast, GIRM 124 instructs the priest to face the people and extend his hands during the greeting.