There is much debate in the church at large concerning the best layout for the Mass. There are those, myself included, who favour the traditional Eastward facing altar and there are those who prefer the the more modern Westward facing altar which became popular over the last few decades. In many ways it is swings and roundabouts as both bring different aspects of devotion to the fore. The Eastward facing altar adds a sense of majesty and mystery. The westward facing altar is fresh and allows for a graceful simplicity.

At S. Barnabas the Eastward position is norm, allowing for great mystery and emphasising all God’s people facing the Almighty together. But at School Mass we go Westward, as this makes for a more ‘user freindly’ Mass and the children get to see what is happening on the Altar. So to a small degree we embrace both styles. That said, when push comes to shove, I am an Eastward facing boy every time. And I think the reason becomes clear when the following video is viewed: Click here

My thanks to Fr. Steel at De Cura Animarum for bringing it to our attention. It is wonderful, though the pedants amongst us will note the liturgical error of allowing for two crosses. Only one is permitted as I understand it.