Mass Etiquette

Question

How should I dress?

Answer

Attire the idea of ‘Sunday best’ should be cultivated; please dress modestly on the side of ‘dressing up,’ not down; presume that most people will wear their best, most appropriate clothing -- and do likewise. Also, please refrain from wearing white, as is traditional at weddings.

Question

Can I talk in the Church?

Answer

The celebration of Holy Mass is not the time to socialize or to talk with family or friends. Instead, kneel or sit quietly and pray. Prepare yourself for the sacred mysteries you are about to celebrate and let others have the opportunity to do the same.

Question

How should I participate in the Mass?

Answer

As the celebration of Holy Mass is the summit and source of the Church’s life and the highest form of prayer that we can offer Almighty God, all should attentively, reverently and actively participate in this most sacred act of worship. This means that all should listen attentively to the Word of God, respond fervently to the orations and sing to the best of their ability. Liturgical prayer is not to be experienced as individuals ‘doing their own thing.’ The Holy Mass is the official prayer of the Universal Church by which she expresses, through carefully chosen words and actions, her Faith. Because it does not belong to any one person, but to the whole Church, no individual should be saying or doing anything at Mass that is not in accordance with the approved liturgical norms.

Question

May I receive Holy Communion?

Answer

The reception of the Holy Eucharist is reserved to Catholics who are properly disposed and in a state of sanctifying grace. Anyone conscious of grave (mortal) sin should first avail themselves of the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation (Confession). Those receiving Holy Communion are required to abstain from food and drink, (including gum and candy), for at least one hour before receiving the Holy Eucharist - the only exception being water and medication.