- Jul 4, 2023
- 8
- 3
- Country
- United States
- Faith
- Lutheran
- Marital Status
- Married
My wife and I were brought up as Baptists, but for various reasons began attending a Lutheran church (LCMS) earlier this year and have felt very much at home. (One of the reasons being our old Baptist church forgoing communion for an entire year and a half due to the rona.)
We're planning on becoming members in the fall. Coming from a low church background where service was a lot less formal, we're having to learn what behavior is considered to be "proper and in good order" during the service. I have a question about a specific situation that occurred recently.
During communion, the rail on our side was full so one of the helpers invited us to go to the rail on the other side from where we were sitting. This required us to cross in front of the altar (still outside the chancel of course) to take communion, and then cross back again to return to our seats. I couldn't help but wonder if we should have bowed when crossing in front of the altar. Is it proper to do so even when you're outside the chancel?
I realize we have freedom to bow or not, but what I'm specifically wondering is if not bowing may unintentionally cause offense to someone in attendance. Is there a general guideline for this type of situation? Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you!
We're planning on becoming members in the fall. Coming from a low church background where service was a lot less formal, we're having to learn what behavior is considered to be "proper and in good order" during the service. I have a question about a specific situation that occurred recently.
During communion, the rail on our side was full so one of the helpers invited us to go to the rail on the other side from where we were sitting. This required us to cross in front of the altar (still outside the chancel of course) to take communion, and then cross back again to return to our seats. I couldn't help but wonder if we should have bowed when crossing in front of the altar. Is it proper to do so even when you're outside the chancel?
I realize we have freedom to bow or not, but what I'm specifically wondering is if not bowing may unintentionally cause offense to someone in attendance. Is there a general guideline for this type of situation? Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you!