[HANASHIR:11475] facing east

[H & R Shubert <notfranz...>]

I'm curious about the Jewish tradition of facing east during prayer.  Having 
been born in a country east of Jerusalem and having been raised Reform, I did 
not grow up with this idea.  When leading shiva prayers, I like to face the 
congregation for home prayer, especially in a circle formation unless the 
family suggests we face east.  During Temple services, I face the congregation 
and turn to the ark (which in our Temple is not in an easterly direction) for 
Bar'chu and Aleinu. I feel a bit funny bowing "to" the congregation, and would 
rather be looking at the ark at that point.   I'd like to hear from other 
service leaders on this issue.  Do you always face east?  How important is this 
minhag in more traditional movements.  
Thanks,
Rachelle