- from CatholicCulture.org
Genuflection is an ancient practice which indicated that the person being genuflected to was worthy of great honor and respect. In ancient times, it was used to show respect for the king or queen. As Catholics, we genuflect toward the Blessed Sacrament in the Tabernacle as a sign that we believe Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, is truly present, body, blood, soul and divinity. Therefore, as a sign of respect and adoration, we genuflect when passing in front of the Tabernacle. This is also why we genuflect when entering the pew before Mass or passing the exposed Blessed Sacrament in the monstrance. Next time you enter church for Mass, take some to think about why you are genuflecting and say a prayer as you do so.