"Mass" vs "Service"

In the realm of Catholic liturgy, the orientation of the priest during mass has been a topic of discussion. In the ad orientem mass, the priest faces the altar with his back to the congregation. This traditional approach symbolizes the priest leading the congregation in prayer towards God. On the other hand, the ad populum mass, more commonly seen today, has the priest facing the congregation. This arrangement emphasizes the communal aspect of worship, and has been commonly adopted by Protestant denominations. Both styles have their historical significance and continue to spark debates among believers about the most fitting way to connect with the divine during mass.