Is there a general instruction to kneel during Mass at “Behold the Lamb of God” (Ecce Agnus Dei) and during the Communion rite?  What if the priest tells the people to stand because “we are a people redeemed”?

Therese, via e-mail

Fr. Rocky: The General Instruction of the Roman Missal states: “The faithful kneel after the Agnus Dei unless the diocesan bishop determines otherwise” (No. 43).  If your priest directs you to stand at that point in the Mass, it’s likely because the diocesan bishop has made that indication, and not just because you are “a people redeemed.”  After all, the faithful in the next diocese – who might be kneeling – are also redeemed.