Attire: The idea of “Sunday best” should be honored; churchgoers of all ages should dress
conservatively. Coat and tie is appropriate for men, but not required. Women should wear
modest dress. Tank tops, very short skirts, low cut necklines or tight-fitting clothing
would be considered disrespectful. Shorts are not appropriate for either men or women.
Arrival: Prepare your offering envelope ahead of time. Arrive at least 10 minutes before Mass
begins. This helps reduce distractions and provides time to get settled. Latecomers should wait
to be seated by ushers so as not to disrupt the service and the congregation. Gum or candy should
never be in your mouth when coming to Mass.
Entering the church: Once you leave the gathering space, refrain from over socializing with your
friends. Remember that others are already engaged in prayer in their seats. It is optional to
bless yourself with holy water, but as a sign of respect for the Blessed Sacrament, genuflect
(or bow if unable to genuflect) before taking your seat. Move over to the center of the row as
a courtesy to accommodate others who arrive after you.
Quiet time: Turn off cell phones and pagers. It is understandable that children have difficulty
sitting quietly, but when they become distracting, take them out briefly until they settle
down. They may be too warm and need a change of environment.
Sign of Peace: People usually
shake hands briefly or exchange a quick kiss, but if you have a cold or cough, you can
politely say, “Peace be with you,” without shaking hands.
Consecration: Elevation of the Host and the Chalice after the words of consecration are spoken is
a sacred time, and there should be silent reverence with no movement around the church, except in
an emergency.
Communion: Again, refrain from socializing when leaving the row to receive Communion. Receive
the Holy Eucharist with reverence, bow slightly and respond “Amen.”
Leaving the church: Singing the closing hymn is still part of the Mass. Leaving before the
hymn ends is inappropriate. After the hymn, genuflect (or bow) toward the altar before
leaving. Refrain from greeting and visiting each other until out in the gathering space.
Have respect for those who wish to remain in prayer.
Join our Core Team…
There is no amount of time that is too small, whether you can commit weekly, or only for a special
event. Whether you enjoy singing or leading the teens, or if you wish to quietly take part without
the limelight – there is surely a place for everyone. I am a firm believer that many hands make
light work, and the more the merrier!!
If you feel that God is calling you to be a part of “the Team” remember that God qualifies all
those who are called! Stop in at the Parish Center, or call Vikki Melchiorre at 239/481-5144 for
more info.
