Short answer- you are! Everyone, regardless of background, age, race, politics or familiarity with the Catholic faith is welcome to celebrate Mass with us. If you think you wouldn’t be, we’ve got news for you- you’re exactly who we’re looking for. Sinners of every kind are welcome here!

We don’t enforce a formal “dress code”. We encourage everyone to dress respectfully and appropriately for worship. Remember, you’re in Jesus’ house. You don’t need to wear a three-piece suit, but you probably shouldn’t wear sweatpants, either. Clean, modest clothing is best.

For men: jeans, slacks or khakis paired with a collared shirt is sufficient.

For women: dresses/skirts (knee length or longer), dress pants or jeans paired with a modest blouse.

Mass typically lasts about 45-60 minutes. If you’ve never been before, it can be unfamiliar and confusing- just follow along with what everyone else is doing, and you’ll be fine!

Mass follows a structured order called the liturgy. There are two main parts, along with an introduction and a conclusion.

Introductory Rites: a bell will ring and everyone will stand. Music will begin to play and the priest, along with altar servers, will process in. Remain standing for the opening prayers, and sit when everyone else does.

Liturgy of the Word: Once you’re seated, you’ll hear readings from the Bible. Generally, it’ll be one passage from the Old Testament, a Psalm (which is often sung), a New Testament letter (eg- Corinthians, Galatians) and a Gospel reading. When the Gospel is read, everyone stands. After the reading, the priest gives a homily (a sermon) to reflect upon the readings. When he is finished, everyone will stand and recite the Creed- the core tenets of our Faith. Prayers are then offered for the Church and the world at large.

Liturgy of the Eucharist: At this point, the priest will prepare the altar, bread and wine- you’ll be seated for this. When he is finished, everyone will stand and recite the Eucharistic prayer- at this point, the bread and wine become the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Christ. We believe in Jesus’ real presence in the Eucharist. Most will kneel or stand during this prayer. The congregation prays the Lord’s Prayer, after which everyone will turn around and want to shake hands with you- don’t be alarmed. Shake hands or return their gesture and say “peace be with you”, just as they do. At this point, everyone will begin lining up to receive the Eucharist. Feel free to join them if you’d like, but don’t feel obligated- respectfully standing, kneeling or sitting is appropriate if you’d rather stay in your seat. If you’re a Catholic in good standing, you are welcome to receive. If you’re not, that’s no problem- simply cross your arms over your chest to receive a blessing from the Eucharistic minister.

Concluding Rites: When everyone has returned to their seats, the priest will have everyone stand again. He will deliver a final prayer and a blessing. The Prayer to Saint Michael is recited by the congregation, and a closing hymn (song) will be played. Stay where you’re at until the priest and altar servers have processed out of the Church. Once they’re out, you’re free to leave, or to stay for a moment of quiet prayer. Most socialization happens outside of the Church, so if there’s someone you’d like to chat with, make sure you find them outside!

Tips:

• You’re welcome to join in for prayers, songs, or responses (like “Amen”, or “and with your spirit”) if you feel comfortable. It’s okay to observe quietly, too. If you’d like to join in, missals (books explaining the Mass) can be purchased, or found online (search Catholic missal 2025). They are of great help. Music books can also be found in every pew, so if you’d like to sing along, feel free!

• Standing, sitting and kneeling can feel like a Pilates class sometimes, we know. These postures help us pray together and worship God with humility and respect. Just follow the congregation and do what feels right for you!

There is no assigned seating in our Churches. Sit wherever you’re comfortable- for the introverts out there, we recommend the back pews or the balconies (if you’re at Assumption Church), as they offer a measure of privacy. For you extroverts, sit wherever makes you happy! If it’s packed when you enter, feel free to ask an usher where you might find a space!

We recommend arriving approximately 10 minutes before Mass begins. Parking is at a bit of a premium at our Churches, so arriving early ensures you don’t have to park a mile away. Arriving early also provides you with ample time to find a seat, get oriented, ask any questions you may have and put yourself in the state of mind to appropriately worship God.

Families and children are more than welcome to join us! Our Churches offer cry rooms if you’re concerned about the noise- feel free to ask an usher for direction if needed!

Ask questions! If you’re curious about something or find yourself confused, that’s alright! This can all feel very exotic if you’re new here. Please, don’t feel like questions aren’t welcome- speak with a greeter, parishioner or the priest after Mass. Someone will be happy to answer your questions, or point you in the direction of someone who can.

No need to bring anything! A positive attitude and a desire to worship God is all we ask. We’re a pretty friendly bunch of sinners- come as you are!

If you are an adult, and have not been baptized into the Church, but wish to be, read on!

Baptism doesn’t happen right away in our Church. In order to be baptized, you’ll go through a program called RCIA (Rites of Christian Initiation). It’s a once-a-week class, one hour long, that will inform your decision and educate you on the intricacies of the Faith. It is not as intimidating as it sounds- there are no tests, the homework is absolutely minimal, and you’ll learn a lot of intensely interesting things about the Catholic faith. There is no financial cost to this class- we’re in the business of saving souls, not collecting a toll.

If you’d like to learn more, or get registered, stop by the office or talk to a priest- they’ll be more than happy to assist!