What not to do during the “Our Father” at Mass
According to the guidelines, this “Oran’s Posture” (Praying with out stretch OPEN hands and arms, is reserve for the priest, so when the laity use it, it blurs the distinction between a layperson and the ministerial priesthood. It’s indicative of poor catechesis.
It’s ok to assume this position in private prayer but the Mass is a public liturgical prayer with guidelines regarding posture so that everyone is not just doing their own thing.
Mother Miriam from EWTN Catholic Radio field a question on this just last week, and she confirmed in no uncertain language that this is a gesture that is inappropriate for a layperson to assume at Mass.
Watch your Deacon…when the priest is in the Oran’s posture the Deacon has his hands together.