INSIDE OLD CATHOLIC

By †Gabriel Obiano, D.D. Have you ever noticed a priest at Mass praying with his arms outstretched, palms open? Or perhaps someone praying in similar posture and gazing upwards? In the Catholic tradition, this isn't just a spontaneous expression of devotion; it's a specific, ancient posture known as the Orans posture. Far from being a modern innovation, this gesture of prayer has resonated across the Church for centuries, holding a profound spiritual significance that continues to enrich the sacred liturgy of the Mass today. But what exactly is the Orans posture, where did it come from, and why does it still hold such power for believers? Let's reach out and explore this beautiful and meaningful stance of prayer. What is the Orans Posture? Derived from the Latin word orare, meaning "to pray," the Orans posture is characterized by standing (or sometimes kneeling) with arms extended sideways, bent at the elbows, and palms open and facing upwards. It is a posture tha...

  By Bishop Gabriel Obiano, D.D. When you hear the name St. Peter, what comes to mind? For many, he is the Apostle with the keys, the first pope, or the bold fisherman who denied Jesus three times. But Peter’s life and role in the Church is far deeper than these familiar details. Understanding Peter is to understand how Christ laid the foundation of His Church. Let's walk through who Peter was, his role as a disciple, his leadership in the early Church, and even some rare details you may not have heard before. Who Was St. Peter? Peter’s original name was Simon, a fisherman from Bethsaida in Galilee. He worked alongside his brother Andrew when Jesus called them, saying, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). Jesus gave Simon a new name: Cephas (Aramaic) or Petros (Greek), which means “rock.” This renaming wasn’t accidental—it was prophetic. Christ was setting Simon apart for a foundational role in salvation history. Peter as a Disciple of Jesus Peter is perh...