The common orientation of priest and people during the Liturgy of the Eucharist symbolizes—or perhaps better, lives out—the Church’s conviction that the Mass is an act of worship offered to the Thrice-Holy God.

CHR Comment: The article includes comment on early Christian practice and Vatican II liturgical reform, which is now being reconsidered.

Source: He’s Not “Turning his Back to the People” | George Weigel | First Things