Do We Have to Kneel During the Mass?

by Admin · January 7, 2026

Photo: Diocese of Spokane

Question: Is it mandatory to kneel during the Catholic Mass?

Answer: Kneeling during Mass is not strictly mandatory, but it is strongly encouraged and often required by local custom or bishops’ conferences.

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM), which governs the celebration of the Mass, states: “The faithful should kneel at the consecration, unless prevented by reasons of health, lack of space, the large number of people present, or some other good reason” (43).

So, while kneeling at the consecration — especially during the Eucharistic Prayer — is the norm, exceptions are permitted for practical or personal reasons.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church highlights the significance of bodily posture in worship, noting that it expresses reverence, humility and attentiveness before God (1156). If someone is unable to kneel due to physical limitations or for other valid reasons, the Church encourages an alternative posture that conveys respect, such as sitting with a bowed head or standing attentively.

In most English-speaking regions, including Southern Africa, the bishops’ conferences have prescribed that the faithful kneel from the Sanctus (“Holy, Holy, Holy”) until after the Great Amen, and again before the distribution of Communion.

It is also customary in many places to kneel after receiving Communion until the remaining consecrated hosts are placed in the tabernacle.

In other parts of the world, however, liturgical norms may vary. The faithful might stand more frequently during Mass — including during the consecration — in keeping with local episcopal guidelines and cultural customs.

People of other denominations or faiths (or none) attending Mass should not be expected to take part in Catholic customs — though they are most welcome to do so.