Must the tabernacle be in the center of the sanctuary?
The short answer
No. The tabernacle may be placed anywhere in the church, as long as the location is distinguished, conspicuous, beautifully decorated and suitable for prayer.
What canon law requires
The Code of Canon Law asks that the tabernacle where the Eucharist is reserved be located in a part of the church or oratory that is distinguished, conspicuous, beautifully adorned and suited to prayer (CIC 938). The center of the sanctuary is not required.
Genuflecting
The General Instruction of the Roman Missal explains that when the tabernacle is in the sanctuary, the priest, deacon and ministers genuflect as they approach and leave the altar, but not during the Mass itself. Everyone else who passes before the Blessed Sacrament genuflects, unless moving in procession (GIRM 274).
Continue exploring
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