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Helpful advice for celebrating Mass to allow you to feel comfortable in the sanctuary
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Mass is a religious ceremony filled with rituals, songs, and prayers many Catholics know by heart. However, you may have not attended one before or you might not have worshiped with a congregation in a while. Perhaps you do regularly go to Mass, but you would like to understand it better and get deeper in touch with your faith. We’ll discuss proper etiquette when visiting a sanctuary for Mass as well as ways to participate with the parishioners. Review our guide to fully immerse yourself in the beautiful experience of Mass.
Things You Should Know
- Since Mass is considered a holy event, arrive early and wear formal clothing.
- Pass by the baptismal font quietly, enter the sanctuary, take a seat, and remain silent while the priest speaks.
- If you bring children to Mass, make sure to bring quiet toys so they don't disrupt the priest or parishioners.
- Participate in Mass by singing hymns, reading missals, standing and kneeling with the rest of the worshipers, and greeting others during the Exchange of Peace.
Steps
Section 3 of 4:
How to Participate in Mass
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Stand and kneel with the crowd. At the beginning of the service, everyone will stand. Mass is an active event, so everyone usually moves a lot during the service. They’ll stand for some prayers and kneel for others. While knowing all the correct steps may be difficult to keep track of at first, simply pay attention to what everyone else does and follow their lead. [4] X Research source
- The priest usually won’t tell you when to stand or kneel, so keep your eye on the parishioners.
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Look at the hymnal board to see what will be sung during Mass. Find the "hymnal board" near the front of the church where everyone can see it. Check for the number cards on this board, which correspond to the hymn numbers in the hymnal, a special book of songs. Unlike some services in other faiths, Mass encourages active participation. Feel free to sing along and build a sense of community with the parishioners. [5] X Research source
- The parishioners join each other in song during the "Liturgy of the Word."
- The priest or another worshiper sometimes sings during prayers and readings. These songs are usually specially chosen for that specific day and won’t be in the hymnal. Watch everyone else to see if they sing along and follow their lead.
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Find the hymnal and missal books in front of you. They’ll be on the backs of the pews. The hymnal is the one you use for the numbers on the front board. Turn to the right number in your hymnal and sing along. Missals contain the readings and prayers used throughout the service. Reference the books to follow along as best you can. [6] X Research source
- The priest will guide you in interpreting and learning from hymns and missals during the "Liturgy of the Word."
- The full text of the readings will usually be printed in the missal, along with the responses the congregation says aloud.
- Anytime you feel a little lost or unsure, it’s completely fine—just follow along by listening instead of focusing on the books.
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Greet others during the Exchange of Peace. The “Exchange of Peace,” a quick greeting worshipers and visitors give each other, happens after the Lord’s Prayer (which starts with the “Our Father”). The priest usually says, “Let us offer one another a sign of God’s peace.” At this point, stand up and shake hands with the parishioners near you. Accompany each light handshake with the phrase “peace be with you.” [7] X Research source
- In some countries or regions, such as Asia, a bow or nod is more acceptable during this event. Take note of how the other worshipers give their Exchange of Peace.
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Stay seated during Communion. After the priest prepares the altar and consecrates the gifts, the congregation takes Communion. If you are Catholic, then you’re encouraged to receive Holy Communion, a rite where worshipers consume consecrated wafers (hosts) and drink consecrated wine that Catholics believe to be the true Body and Blood of Christ under the appearance of simple bread and wine. If you're not Catholic, don't participate in Communion as you would not believe in the True Presence. Let the communicants pass, moving out of the aisle if necessary. As they line up in front of the priest, sit down and let everyone back in when they return. [8] X Research source
- Catholics receive "Holy Communion" during the "Liturgy of the Eucharist."
- In many English-speaking countries, non-Catholics can join the Communion queue and receive a blessing rather than take Communion. Cross your arms in an X over your chest with your closed fists touching your shoulders as you reach the priest.
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Wait until the congregation is dismissed. After Communion, there will be a few more prayers before the priest blesses you to leave. At this point, everyone stands and files back out of the sanctuary. Practicing Catholics will genuflect again towards the tabernacle as they leave their seats. Quietly walk out as this happens. [9] X Research source
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Respectfully appreciate the art in the church. After Mass, feel free to look at any of the beautiful statues, paintings, and other artwork inside. These are not idols and Catholics do not pray directly to them. While they may appear a little unfamiliar to you, many Catholics recognize them and view them to reflect on their faith. [10] X Research source
- Some icons have candles before them. You can light a candle to pay homage to these important figures in the Catholic tradition.
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Ask the church members any questions you have. After the priest has performed the "Concluding Rites" and Mass ends, some church members will stick around to talk to each other. Feel free to greet them and discuss what you’re curious about. The priest will also be available to speak with everyone in the church. If you prefer a private discussion, schedule a time to talk in the “rectory,” a private building attached to the church where the priest lives. [11] X Research source
- For example, you can ask, “What do you use holy water for?” or “How do I become a Catholic?”
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Section 4 of 4:
Etiquette for a Catholic Mass
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Dress in formal clothing. Mass is meant to be attended in your Sunday best . While the church welcomes everyone regardless of their attire, it’s very respectful to look well put together. To honor this holy event, dress appropriately and wear a modest outfit like a dress and a cardigan or a button-down shirt with slacks. [12] X Research source
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Come a few minutes early. Get to the church at least ten minutes early. You’ll probably feel much more comfortable if you find a parking spot easily and have a chance to sit wherever you want. Arriving before Mass begins also gives you an opportunity to talk with the parishioners. Once you step inside the main room of the church, remember to speak as quietly as possible. [13] X Research source
- Arrive early and before Mass starts if you need to check in with someone or ask any questions.
- See if your church has any specific guidelines about talking once Mass begins.
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Take off your hat when entering the church. Taking off your hat is a traditional gesture of respect. A good rule of thumb for how to act in church is to behave the same way you would at school, work, or any other formal venue. Men are typically expected to remove their hat. If you’re a woman, dress hats are acceptable, but make sure to remove casual headwear like baseball caps. [14] X Research source
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Avoid bringing food or drinks into the church. If you are with a small child or someone is easily dehydrated, it’s completely fine to bring water. Eat before you head to church so you don’t need to bring food. Food distracts from worshiping, and it’ll be easier to focus on Mass if you’re not munching on some snacks. [15] X Research source
- If you want to freshen your breath or keep yourself awake, pop in a couple mints instead of chewing gum.
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Turn off your phone. To make sure you and everyone else enjoys the beautiful rituals of Mass, power your phone off to keep it from ringing. If you’re waiting for an emergency call, put it on vibrate mode. It’s okay to discreetly use your phone to follow along with readings and prayers, but this is usually isn’t necessary. [16] X Research source
- If you have to take an urgent phone call, walk out of the church first.
- Most churches have physical materials you can read rather than digital media you need to open on your phone.
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Bring toys for small children. If you have kids that are under 4 years old, it might really help to bring along toys and coloring books. They’ll be so occupied with these fun distractions that they’re a lot less likely to get restless during Mass. Once you think they’re ready to listen and participate in the Mass, start leaving the toys at home. [17] X Research source
- You can begin teaching young children the importance of Mass by giving them special clothing or toys that are reserved for church days.
- Provide toys that won't make a lot of noise. For example, give your kid a stuffed animal instead of a toy truck that makes sounds and flashes lights when you hit a button.
- If you have a child that might get a little chatty, sit in the pews at the back of the church so you can step outside if you need to.
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Pass by the holy water font quietly. At the church entrance, you’ll notice parishioners dipping their fingers into a container of water, which is called the “holy water font.” This source of holy water is a reminder of baptism. Walk by it and remain silent and respectful in case anyone is praying. Anyone is free to use the font, so you can try blessing yourself by making the sign of the cross . [18] X Research source
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Wait for others to genuflect as they enter the sanctuary. At the front of the sanctuary, you’ll find the “tabernacle,” a box that contains the Eucharist, which is the bread and wine Catholics believe becomes the body of Christ. Here, parishioners will “genuflect,” which means they’ll go down on their right knee or bow as a sign of respect and thanksgiving for the sacrifice Jesus made. You may genuflect with everyone else or simply walk into the sanctuary and find a seat. [19] X Research source
- To genuflect, go down on your right knee and lower yourself as far as you can. If you have any issues with your knees, it’s completely acceptable to bow instead.
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Sit anywhere in the pews. You’re welcome to sit anywhere you like. Consider sitting closer to the front if you would like to watch all of the rites. An end seat is a great choice since you’ll be able to let everyone else out during communion. If you pick a pew with people sitting in the middle, you won’t have to worry about letting anyone in. [20] X Research source
- If you’re bringing small children, a back pew works best. This allows you to make a quick escape with a talkative or playful kid.
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QuestionCan I get baptized right away in a Catholic church if I have faith and am a believer?Our goal at wikiHow is to deliver trustworthy articles that engage our readers and meet their informational and emotional needs. For 15 years, we've committed to our step-by-step teaching model, and we continue to refine our content to create the best how-to experience on the Internet. We’ve helped millions of people solve problems, learn new skills, and feel supported in the ordinary and complex moments of life.It's amazing that you want to make the choice that's best for you and are expressing enthusiasm in your faith! In order to get baptized, take part in an Easter Vigil, where other adults with take part in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.
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QuestionCan I wear clean white tennis shoes or sneakers to Mass?Our goal at wikiHow is to deliver trustworthy articles that engage our readers and meet their informational and emotional needs. For 15 years, we've committed to our step-by-step teaching model, and we continue to refine our content to create the best how-to experience on the Internet. We’ve helped millions of people solve problems, learn new skills, and feel supported in the ordinary and complex moments of life.It's generally not advised to wear casual shoes like tennis shoes or sneakers to Mass, even if they're clean. Try to find a pair of comfortable dress shoes to wear instead. For example, try on dress shoes that have already been broken in and have non-leather soles or put on some flats. This footwear will be more formal and suitable for the occasion.
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QuestionCan non-Catholics use the holy water font?Our goal at wikiHow is to deliver trustworthy articles that engage our readers and meet their informational and emotional needs. For 15 years, we've committed to our step-by-step teaching model, and we continue to refine our content to create the best how-to experience on the Internet. We’ve helped millions of people solve problems, learn new skills, and feel supported in the ordinary and complex moments of life.Absolutely. While Communion is reserved for Catholics, everyone—including non-Catholics—can use the holy water font. Admire it, sit by it, kneel, read Scripture, or even pray by it. If the font has a dispenser, you can fill a bottle with holy water and take it home with you to reflect on everything you learned at Mass.
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Tips
- You don’t have to give an offering when the collection plates are passed around.Thanks
- Try out several different churches. They all have their own unique architecture, congregation, and practices.Thanks
- There’s no pressure to join or convert to Catholicism. You are welcome to come and experience a Mass whenever you want.Thanks
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Warnings
- Communion is reserved for baptized, practicing Catholics. Do not receive the Eucharist if you are a visitor.Thanks
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References
- ↑ https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2022/04/11/easter-vigil-catholic-242795
- ↑ https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/library/length-of-a-weekday-mass-4785
- ↑ https://saint-fabian.org/4-parts-of-the-mass/
- ↑ http://www.catholic365.com/article/1154/eight-questions-noncatholics-and-many-cradle-catholicS-almost-always-ask-when-they-attend-mass.html
- ↑ https://www.orangepc.org/opcnews/the-history-of-the-hymn-boards
- ↑ https://thesaurus.plus/related/hymnal/missal
- ↑ http://www.beliefnet.com/faiths/christianity/2002/10/what-this-protestant-learned-at-catholic-mass.aspx
- ↑ https://www.aboutcatholics.com/beliefs/kneeling-after-communion/
- ↑ http://www.catholicmissionleaflets.org/leafapp.htm
- ↑ https://catholic-link.org/the-catholics-guide-to-appreciating-catholic-churches-for-the-non-catholic/
- ↑ https://www.thereligionteacher.com/catholic-mass-reflection-questions/
- ↑ https://dmsbcatholic.com/modesty-at-mass-is-a-must/
- ↑ https://www.bridgeportdiocese.org/20-ways-to-prepare-for-mass/
- ↑ https://ourmotherofmercy.net/etiquette.html
- ↑ https://files.ecatholic.com/2337/documents/Mass/etiquette.pdf?t=1403703263000
- ↑ https://carm.org/about-the-church/is-it-okay-to-use-a-cell-phone-in-church/
- ↑ https://www.foryourmarriage.org/how-to-take-young-children-to-mass
- ↑ http://www.catholic365.com/article/1154/eight-questions-noncatholics-and-many-cradle-catholicS-almost-always-ask-when-they-attend-mass.html
- ↑ https://aleteia.org/2018/04/24/when-should-catholics-genuflect-in-a-church/
- ↑ https://www.stjoetosa.com/what-to-expect
About This Article
Article Summary
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To visit a Catholic mass, make sure you wear nice clothes, like a shirt and trousers or dress, to show respect. If you have young children, bring a few toys for them to play with so they don’t disturb the congregation. When you arrive, sit in any empty pew and wait for the service to start. Once mass begins, stand, kneel, and sit back down when you’re instructed. After the Lord’s prayer, the priest will guide you in the exchange of peace, where you should shake hands with people around you and say, “Peace be with you.” During communion, remain seated if you’re not a Catholic and patiently wait for the service to resume. For more tips, including how to follow along with the hymns, read on!
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