The Worship Commission would like to remind parishioners that certain behaviors within the worship space (the Church) should be considered.

Church Etiquette:

If you find yourself involved in a conversation in the Church, we ask that you postpone it until you reach the Narthex or simply adjourn to the Narthex to continue it. Fellow parishioners may have come to Church to engage in prayer and reflection both before and after Mass. A quiet environment within the Church itself is desirable.

The wearing of a hat by a man, chewing gum, eating/drinking, not silencing cell phones and pagers are inappropriate.

Please remain in church until the conclusion of the final hymn. If you must leave early because of an emergency, please do so quietly. If you leave through a side door, please keep it from slamming shut. If you decide you must leave because a small child in your charge has become disruptive, it is perfectly acceptable to attend Mass from the Narthex. An usher can locate chairs for your comfort.

Please allow latecomers an opportunity to sit in open seats by moving inward when necessary and help ushers locate seats near you.

Liturgical Etiquette:

When the priest greets you during the Mass with a formal statement please respond; for example, “The Lord be with you,” should be followed by “And also with you.” To not respond is similar to ignoring a greeting. This applies to all priestly greetings during Mass.

One should participate in all responsorials during Mass: Glory to God, Psalm refrains, Alleluia, the Creed, Holy, Holy, Holy, the Proclamation, the Great Amen, Our Father, gesture of peace, Lamb of God. These responsorials are vital activities and therefore important parts of Mass that should not be ignored.

We encourage you to sing the hymns/songs during Mass. Every voice is welcome.

When taking Holy Communion, please place your hands in a prominent position for the minister. Remember to say “Amen” after being presented with the host. Do not insert the consecrated host in the chalice when taking the wine. This practice has been discouraged by the American Bishop’s Council and deemed inappropriate. Please remind children who are not old enough to receive Communion to cross their arms when approaching the Eucharistic minister to signify that a blessing is requested.

Remember, attendance and participation at Mass is a sign of our faith and participating in it is an act of worship.