I would like to know if it is still common practice in the celebration of the
Soorp Badarak for the priest to kneel when distributing the Holy Eucharist.
Here are some examples:
http://vultus.stblogs.org/ethiopian-armenians-02.jpghttp://www.epilgrim.org/photo_archives/badarak/DSC01597.jpghttp://www.azad-hye.net/photos/photoalbumimgs/sharjah-madaghorhnek-2007-03.jpgThe sanctuaries in an Armenian church are built higher, as if on a stage. Example:
http://www.azad-hye.net/photos/photoalbumimgs/sharjah-madaghorhnek-2007-01.jpgWhen it comes time for Holy Communion, the priest comes forward and kneels at the edge of the bema to distribute the Eucharist.
In the times that I have attended the
Soorp Badarak at an Armenian Apostolic parish, the priest will step down to where the people are and give Holy Communion standing. I have also attended liturgies when a Catholicos was the celebrant and have seen the same thing.
I can understand if it is a matter of problems with the knees, but I was wondering if this practice is still generally done or if it is becoming less common, even among younger priests.
I have attended the
Soorp Badarak at Armenian Catholic parishes, but because the sanctuary is not elevated as one generally finds in an Armenian Apostolic parish the priest gives Holy Communion standing.