Communion rail definitions
| Word backwards | noinummoc liar |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | com-mun-ion rail |
| Plural | The plural of the word communion rail is communion rails. |
| Total letters | 13 |
| Vogais (4) | o,u,i,a |
| Consonants (5) | c,m,n,r,l |
Communion rail, also known as an altar rail, is a low barrier separating the congregation from the altar in some Christian churches. It serves as a physical division between the clergy and the laity during the celebration of the Eucharist, symbolizing the difference in roles between the ordained ministers and the worshippers.
History of Communion Rail
The use of communion rails can be traced back to the early centuries of Christianity when churches began to incorporate architectural elements to delineate sacred spaces. Initially, communion rails were used to prevent animals from entering the sanctuary during church services. Over time, they evolved to symbolize the boundary between the earthly realm of the congregation and the spiritual realm of the altar.
Significance of Communion Rail
Communion rails hold spiritual significance in many Christian denominations. They serve as a visual reminder of the sacred nature of the Eucharist and the importance of approaching the altar with reverence and humility. The act of kneeling at the communion rail before receiving the sacrament is seen as a gesture of submission and openness to receiving the blessings of the sacrament.
Modern-Day Practice
While communion rails were once ubiquitous in Christian churches, their use has become less common in modern times. Many churches have removed communion rails to promote a more inclusive and welcoming worship environment, allowing worshippers to approach the altar freely. However, some traditionalist churches continue to use communion rails as a symbol of reverence and tradition.
In conclusion, communion rails have a rich history and hold symbolic significance in the practice of the Eucharist in Christian churches. Whether they are present in a church or not, the use of communion rails reflects deep-rooted traditions and beliefs surrounding the act of Communion and the relationship between the clergy and the laity.
Communion rail Examples
- During the church service, the parishioners knelt at the communion rail to receive the Eucharist.
- The priest placed the consecrated host on the communion rail for the communicants to partake in.
- The communion rail was beautifully decorated with intricate carvings depicting religious scenes.
- Children eagerly lined up at the communion rail to receive their first Holy Communion.
- The couple exchanged vows in front of the communion rail, sealing their marriage with God's blessing.
- The choir sang hymns as the congregation gathered around the communion rail for communion.
- A sense of reverence filled the church as the faithful kneeled at the communion rail in prayer.
- The elderly woman leaned heavily on the communion rail for support as she knelt to pray.
- The priest walked along the communion rail, offering a blessing to each person as they received communion.
- The communion rail separated the sanctuary from the nave, symbolizing the divide between the sacred and the secular.