Q: Hi Father Turner, thank you so much for all the guidance you provide. I’ve done some research on this question and can’t find anything definitive. Do you know what guidelines are around about genuflecting to the tabernacle (outside of Mass) or bowing to the altar when one crosses the axis of the tabernacle or altar but from another room (i.e., there is glass between the room that has the tabernacle or altar and the room where the person is)? I understand the guidelines when you are in the space with the tabernacle and / or altar. I just can’t find anything about when you have visibility to the tabernacle and / or altar but are separated by a glass window or door. I also understand that an act of personal devotion would be allowed but wanted to see if there are firmer guidelines available. Thank you!

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A: Like you, I can’t think of any legislation addressing this. From my experience the church places no priority on reverences toward a tabernacle or altar in a separate room. People can comfortably pay attention to their duties in the room where they are.

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