Why/When/How do we genuflect and bow?

Genuflection"jen-you-flek'-shun"

Theological Background‘A genuflection, made by

bending the right knee to the ground, signifies adoration….’ (GIRM 274)

Theological Background'A reverence made by

bending the knee, especially to express adoration of the Blessed Sacrament' (CCC 1378).

Theological Background

'Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.' (Psalm 95:6)

Catholics genuflect in Church in order to show

our reverence to the True Presence of Christ in the

Eucharist.

When?• Genuflect toward the Tabernacle

• On Good Friday to Holy Saturday, after the ceremony of the Adoration of the Cross, genuflect when passing in front of the exposed Crucifix on the Altar

• During the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament (double genuflection)

A bow signifies reverence and honor shown to the persons themselves or to the signs that represent them. There are two kinds of bows: a bow of the head and a bow of the body. GIRM 275.

How?: Simply lower your chin toward your throat and hold a moment

• pass by a Church

•dross the isle in the Church or chapel

Credits to:1. Fr. Gerard Zabala OP for the picture of Caleruega Chapel2. Google pictures cant remember what specific sites

anymore ;)3. God for the knowledge to organize a simple presentation

for anybody who does not know the meaning of some of the Catholic practices.