Category: Letters to Grace

Dear Grace, I’ve noticed that the altar cloths, clergy robes, and other church decorations change colour throughout the year. Is it just to make the church look pretty, or does it mean something?

Dear Grace, Why do we stand for the Gospel reading but sit for the others? And while we’re at it, why is the hymn before the Gospel called the Gradual Hymn? Also, I’ve noticed the Vicar makes the sign of the cross on his forehead, lips, and heart when the Gospel is announced. What on…

Dear Grace, I’ve noticed our vicar bowing his head every time he says Jesus’ name, and sometimes he crosses himself. It’s clearly meaningful to him. But I don’t really understand it. Is it just tradition? Are we supposed to do it too? Also, why does he always turn away from us during the Creed?