Charlotte's Bishop Martin issues formal ban on altar rails

Bishop Martin of the Diocese of Charlotte has issued his ban on the use of altar rails, ushering more liturgical strife into the already distressed diocese.

Dec 17, 2025

∙ Paid

VATICAN CITY (PerMariam) — Usage of altar rails or any form of kneelers to receive Holy Communion will be banned from the New Year in an embattled U.S. diocese.

Announced via a pastoral letter dated December 17, the new norms for the reception of Holy Communion in the Diocese of Charlotte were issued by Bishop Michael Martin OFM.

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