Q. 1. I have noticed since the introduction of guitar playing and other instruments in the Catholic Church, following Vatican II, there are more and more instances where the faithful are clapping with the palm of their hands in rhythm with the sound of the music. I personally do not like the new instruments that have been introduced in the Church, nor the clapping of the hands. Such actions gives the feeling of being at a music festival. It lacks the reverence that once existed in the Catholic Church. It gives the appearance of a celebration versus worship. What is the Church teaching regarding the clapping of the hands during the Mass?

A. 1. Clapping of the hands, synonym to applause, is completely out of place in sacred worship. The Mass is not about us. The ritual itself exists to draw our attention away from ourselves.

In his book "The Spirit of the Liturgy," Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (Now Pope Benedict XVI) wrote: "Whenever applause breaks out in the liturgy because of some human achievement, it is a sure sign that the essence of liturgy has totally disappeared and been replaced by a kind of religious entertainment" (Page 198).

On this subject, Pope Pius X stated, “It is not fitting to applaud the servant in the house of his Master.”

One instance of clapping of the hands which seems to have the approval of the Church is following the ordination of a new priest. On such an occassion, the Bishop usually introduces the newly ordained priest to the faithful and encourages them to clap their hands as a sign of approval. This form of clapping does not draw attention to the faithful but rather towards the growth of the Church.