And to whom shall I bow? To My neighbor, or God?

I’ve often wondered why -- when we proceed to the altar to receive Communion, we stop and bow to the person in front of us -- rather than to the priest or Eucharistic minister who’s holding the Blessed Sacrament.

It’s always seemed strange to me -- and for some time, I’ve wondered about it -- so much so -- that I had to find out the answer to my question.

I've noticed some people bowing before the host and the chalice like myself, while others chose either to genuflect -- or simply bow to the person in front of them.

Because my curiosity had to be appeased, I looked for the answer and found it by reading an article written by a priest at EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network). After reading it, it made sense to me --- but I’m still not sure I agree with the practice.

It's my understanding it has a lot to do with time --- time saved when receiving Communion. According to the article, the whole intent is to save time by bowing to the person before you --- instead of waiting ‘til you reach the priest or Eucharistc minister. I’m not really sure how much of a difference it really makes, times wise -- after all -- we’re only talking about a few seconds, but I guess in a whole, when you consider the congregation is large, it’s believed it can delay the continuation of Mass considerably.

Now, I know that at my church, there are twelve Eucharistic ministers, the priest, and sometimes the Deacon, to administer communion. It appears to move very quickly, and that’s including the Communion distributed to those who can’t approach the altar. Of course, when there’s a small congregation, there’s never a problem.

After reading the article, it appears either way is acceptable, to bow before reaching the priest, deacon, or Eucharist minister or bowing before the Holy Sacrament when you reach the altar --- and I assume it’s more a matter of preference.

Personally, I feel I must bow before God, rather than the parishioner in front of me --- but, in an effort to save time, the bow made before reaching the altar, may be more preferred, and reflects the same adoration as mine.

Couldn't we have chosen another way though to save time? There are many other parts of the Mass I believe are less significant and delay it. Receiving the body and blood of Christ is by far the MOST significant part of the Mass -- and shouldn't be rushed -- merely as an effort to save time.