What is "Ad Orientem"?

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Something in the Catholic liturgy that is often misunderstood is the celebration of Holy Mass Ad Orientem. 

Most Catholics today are accustomed to seeing the priests celebrate Mass standing behind the altar and facing the congregation. Some believe that, before Vatican II, the priest celebrated Mass with his back to the people (ad orientem), and that Vatican II changed this so that the priest would finally face the congregation. 

But that is not entirely accurate. Father Chris Alar, MIC, explains. 

Then hear the fascinating mission of ex-skeptic Jana Harmon, who spent years listening to people who once rejected Christianity, but eventually changed their minds. What motivates thoughtful, intelligent people to move from disbelief to belief? Their answers might surprise you.

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