Fr. Erik Richtsteig is at his best when he’s fed up. Thankfully the world offers plenty of opportunities for him to be fed up. The latest instigator of his getting incensed is Shambulation, the priestly practice of strutting around the sanctuary during the homily, instead of delivering the homily from the pulpit.
This is also known as The Phil Donahue Syndrome; especially so when it is coupled with the reprobated practice of the so-called dialogue homily. (Anything with the word dialogue in it can’t be good!) How do we address this problem? Better liturgy through technology!
Specifically through a strong electromagnetic plate positioned under the pulpit. The offenders will simply be issued special shoes with steel plates in the soles. As soon as the homily begins, a switch is thrown and, presto, no shambulation.
I also believe that with sufficient research this technology can also be applied to the abuse of inviting the congregation into the Sanctuary. Just imagine. Next time this happens in your parish, flip a switch and they will be hurled back into the pews. (This could also be useful with Water Witches (aka Poncho Ladies(tm)).
I’m unsure whether Fr. Richtsteig will be applying for any federal grants for the research but I’m sure he will keep us updated.
If you’re not checking out Fr. Richsteig over at Orthometer often you’re missing out.
May 14, 2008 at 6:02 pm
Ummm…I don’t really mind “shambulation.” It’s pretty standard in the Eastern Churches. The priest comes out onto the bema, or walks into the center of the crowd to give his sermon.
In ancient times, the priest would come out and sit down on a little stool to give the homily.
I don’t see a problem here.
May 14, 2008 at 6:21 pm
I think it’s more of the “It’s all about me” type of Mass that takes place in Catholic churches everywhere. Once the priest turned around too many priests took this as an opportunity to unleash their inner “Norma Desmond” and got ready for their close-ups.
May 14, 2008 at 9:01 pm
So that’s what it’s called, “Shambulation”? It’s a dead giveaway of lousey preaching. I’ve often likened it to Phil Donahough prancng around in a caftan. First thing you’re told in public speaking class is to stand still and don’t fidget. Priests who sermonize this way do not prepare their homilies — the speak off the cuff and off the point.
William Anonymous
May 14, 2008 at 11:17 pm
I knew one Franciscan who shambulated and he was one of the best preachers I’ve ever heard. Probably number two on my list.
Not sure why this practice really started, but I don’t think it’s a big deal. And I’ve not seen the congregation invited into the Sanctuary in probably 25 years. Where do you people go to Mass?
But if it’s a big deal for you, I think a better solution would be one of those invisible electrical fences. If the priest tries to step away from the pulpit — ZZZaaap! Aaaaaargh!!!! Much more effective in keeping the priest in place, and entertaining for the people of God. It also would fulfill his need for attention, should that be his motive for shambulating.
What are Water Witches (aka Poncho Ladies)? I really want to know.
Bob Hunt
May 15, 2008 at 12:39 am
At my parish what we need is one of those invisible electric fences Bob Hunt mentions — to keep a sizeable contingent of the laity from exiting the church immediately after (or during) Communion.
Jacqueline Y.
May 15, 2008 at 6:15 pm
Anybody know what Fr. Erik means by Water Witches?
Bob Hunt
May 15, 2008 at 6:56 pm
I also don’t see TOO much of a problem with the priest leaving the pulpit for the homily…though I haven’t actually seen one meandering around, but more just standing in front of the sanctuary. I do, however, like the idea of the electromagnetic field to keep the congregation from going around the altar… What is that neo/psuedo liturgical movement supposed to represent – that we aren’t unified with one another in the way we were arranged before, or that we aren’t close enough to God when we receive Communion?
I also would like to know what Water Witches are.
May 15, 2008 at 11:27 pm
Bob, poncho ladies over at catholic pillowfight.
http://www.catholicpillowfight.com/
May 16, 2008 at 12:13 am
Thanks, Matthew. Actually, I thought to e-mail Fr. Erik and he explained it all to me.
Bob