that the Confession is primarily intended
for those who are about to communicate, though it does not exclude
others from joining in it.

With regard to the manner of making the confession, it must be
remembered that the direction that it should be made in the name
of all those that are minded to come to the Holy Communion, was
worded at a time when a considerable proportion of the communicants
were too illiterate to follow such a piece of devotion by the use
of a book. It was therefore essential that their leader should say
it slowly and audibly, if they were to join in it at all. It cannot
be said that this reason has wholly disappeared now; while even for
persons of high education, so solemn and suggestive a devotion
requires all the assistance of ample time, and facility of hearing,
that they may join in it devoutly and deliberately.

The retaining the words 'one of the Ministers,' from the older
form of the rubric, implies that if the celebrant have assistants
one of them may lead the confession. And though it may no longer
be read by one of the communicant congregation (as it formerly might)
still a lay-clerk at the altar is not absolutely excluded. In any case
the celebrant, even though not leading the confession, is to kneel.

110. Then shall the Priest (or the Bishop, being present,) stand
up, and turning himself to the people, pronounce this Absolution,
Almighty God, &c.

'The Bishop' means the bishop of the diocese, or other bishop
acting in his stead. The words 'stand up,' imply that the celebrant
has been kneeling for the confession.

111. Then shall the Priest say. Hear what, &c.

112. After which the Priest shall proceed, saying, Lift up, &c.

There is authority of ancient custom (though there is no direction
for so doing in the rubric) for the Priest to open his arms, and
raise his hands, while pronouncing the words 'Lift up your hearts,'
which are to be said facing the people.

113. Then shall the Priest turn to the Lord's Table, and say, It is
very, &c.

The Priest up to this point has been 'turning to the people' in
accordance with the rubric of the Absolution. He must now turn to
the Lord's Table.

114. These words [_Holy Father_] must be omitted on _Trinity-Sunday_.

115. Here shall follow the Proper Preface, according to the time,
if there be any specially appointed: or else immediately shall
follow, Therefore, &c.

116. After each of which Prefaces shall immediately be sung or
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