What happens in a Catholic church?

Question

Basically, I want to start going to church. I have never been before so I am unsure of what to do. I've decided to go to the church of the Holy Name of Jesus Christ, which is Catholic. So do you need to be dressed real smart? Because I don't own any really smart clothes. Would jeans and a smart jumper suffice? And do you just walk in and sit down, or are there specific places to sit? And when they do Holy Communion, will I look wierd if I don't partake? And when will I get to do Holy Communion?

Answer 1

Congrats! That's a great decision, attending Catholic Mass.

What they call "smart casual" is preferable for attending Mass. However, if you don't own anything like that, don't let that stop you from coming to Mass anyway. If you decide to keep attending Mass regularly, it might not me a bad idea to get something smart casual to wear to Mass. For now, don't worry about that.

When you walk into the Church, you will probably be in the vestibule; it's an area that has the look of a lobby. From there, you can proceed right to the nave, where the pews are.

As you enter the nave, there will be holy water fonts mounted on the wall. It's Catholic practice to dip your fingers into the water and make the Sign of the Cross. From here, take a seat at any empty pew in the place. Before entering the pew, it's custom to genuflect before entering the pew. When you take your seat, it's custom to kneel in a minute of silent prayer before sitting down.

The Mass starts with the singing of an entrance hymn and the priest. alter servers, lectors, enter and proceed to the altar. In a nutshell, Bible readings are read, the priest will give a serrmon, the bread and wine are consecrated, and Communion is dispensed. The best advice here is to simply pay attention to what's going on at the Mass, and do what the congregation does. Don't worry about making mistakes or doing anything wrong. It is HIGHLY unlikely anyone is going to question you if you don't look like you know what you're doing. Should someone say something, just tell them the truth; that this is your first Catholic Mass and you are considering converting (presumably, right?).

When it comes to receiving Communion, if you are not Catholic, you shouldn't go up and receive it. It's not unusual to see a few people stay in their pews as the rest of the congregation goes up to receive Communion. Therefore, it is doubtful anyone will pay any attention to the fact you will remain in your pew. They will simply assume you have your reasons.

If you do want to receive Holy Communion, you must convert to Catholicism. Converting to Catholicism is a subject for another question.

Answer 2

As the saying goes, "When in Rome, be a Roman..."

Informal or casual dress is okay, but no beach attire or sandals allowed. Get there before the scheduled time for Mass/es. As you enter/leave the church, make the Sign of the Cross. Try to be as comfortable and at ease as you possibly can, once you find an empty seat.

Follow what the rest of the churchgoers are doing at the time: when everyone sits, stands, or kneels at certain times during Mass. If you know the songs, sing along as well.

Communion will take place after Consecration --that is when the priest will raise the host and chalice [usually with bells being rung by the acolytes/servers, if any]. You simply remain in your place without partaking, but be conscious to allow others to pass through your side of the pew if they so desire.

It usually takes about an hour for the regular service, unless it's a High Mass which takes much longer.

After Mass, talk to any of the priests around, or one of the Mass participants [or ushers] about any questions you may have.

Peace be with you.

Answer 3

If you actually want to join the Catholic church I would talk to a priest. If you just want to visit, a nice jumper and jeans would be just fine. If you are worried about how you look when you don't take communion feel free to sit in the back and just listen. Catholics understand that there are visitors and will not judge you because you aren't taking communion. You will be able to get communion when you are a member of the church and have gone to reconciliation.

Answer 4

Dress as nicely as you can. Plenty of people wear jeans to mass.

You may sit anywhere you like.

As for Communion, we ask that non- Catholis do not receive the Eucharist.

If you would like to become Catholic, contact the parish office. They will put you in touch with the right person. There are classes and you would be receivved into the Church the night before Easter.

This link will help you understand what is happening during Mass:

http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0889.asp

Answer 5

No, sex abuse happens in all forms of religions and denominations, and they all cover up their dirty secrets. The Catholic Church makes a better target then a Protestant church for the media. The reason why is because the Catholic Church is viewed by the world as being the Christian body. If you go anywhere in the world and ask them about Pope Benedict XVI they will all know him, but if you asked someone about Pat Robertson in some remote place in the world they would say, "Who's that?" In the media's mind an attack upon the Catholic Church is an attack upon all of Christianity.

Answer 6

Nice jeans are fine for Mass so is a smart jumper. No there are no specific places to sit, just have a seat. No, it wouldn't look weird if you don't take Communion. Just politely let the other people squeeze out of the pew.

Answer 7

In most Catholic churches, you don't have to dress up. I wouldn't show up in a tank-top and Daisy Dukes, but something casual would probably be ok.

Sit wherever you want. There is not usually assigned seating. Just don't go up front and sit on the altar. ;)

You won't look weird if you dont partake in communion. Lots of people don't and nobody sits around speculating on why.

You can go to communion after you become a Catholic yourself.

Answer 8

Arf Bee is right. He gave you the most complete answer.

Catholic people are comprehensive, you can't take the holy communion, before there are some things to do. Ask them or talk with the priest.

see you!

Answer 9

Have you trusted in the Holy Name Of Jesus Christ, because no church is going to save you. My friend if you have a Bible please read the book of John three times, and each time pray that God would reveal Himself to you. Then I would find a good Bible believing church, and stay in it 'til God calls you. I would also ask Christ to come into your life, and save you from your sins.

Answer 10

Going to Mass is NOT passive. If you participate by singing, actively listen, and praying, it is a very engaging and moving liturgy.

Read the following article from Catholic Update to get a good understanding of the Mass - http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0889.asp

Please contact me if you have any questions. i would like to know your impression of the article and the Mass.