Mass Etiquette: Things To Do And Not Do In Mass To Help You and Others

We have an awesome community here at St. Christopher Church. Attending Mass at our parish is always uplifting and joyful. We are truly blessed. Here are few church etiquette tips that can help you and help others to fully actualize, appreciate and benefit from the worship experience during Mass. Hope this occasional reminder helps.
1. Fast before Mass.
It is our tradition to fast for at least 1 hour before receiving Holy Communion, so we can physically feel hunger as we spiritually hunger for Christ in the Eucharist. Infirm age and medical conditions are exceptions.
2. No Food and Drink in Church.
Do not bring in cups of coffee from home or from the various stores. The only exceptions would be liquids for infants and toddlers or someone who is ill.
3. Men take your hats off.
It is impolite to wear a hat into any church for a man.
4. Don't chew gum in church.
It breaks your fast, it’s distracting, and disrespectful in a house of worship.
5. Dress modestly and appropriately.
Enough said.
6. Cell phones should never be used in Mass for calls, emails or texting.
Turn them off or silence them. The ONLY exceptions are emergencies (big ones, not everyday ones) and if you are using the phone for readings or prayers.
7. No hand-held game devices.
8. Arrive on time (show up a few minutes earlier):
It can be difficult to get the kids together on time, and there can be reasons that one is legitimately late. Start heading for church 10 to 15 minutes earlier than normal. This is courtesy to all who have arrived on time, so as not to distract them if you arrive late.
9. Don't sit on the edge of the pew if you sit down before others.
Rather, sit in the middle so others don't have to climb over you. Furthermore – gentlemen offer their seats to any lady (elderly, disabled, etc.) who must stand due to overcrowding.
10. When we enter and leave Church, genuflect toward the Tabernacle.
Christ is present for our sake. By allowing our right knee to hit the floor, we acknowledge He is our Lord and God, we are not. If someone is physically unable to genuflect, then a bow is sufficient. During Mass, if you pass in front of the altar or tabernacle, bow reverently.
11. Sit quietly while in church.
Once you enter the sanctuary - it is not the time or place to visit with those around you. If you must talk please do so as quietly and briefly as possible. Remember that your conversation might be disturbing someone who is in prayer. We are a very friendly parish; however, let’s take our conversations before and after Mass outside the main sanctuary of the church.
12. Attending to a crying baby or noisy child.
We have a ton of young families in our parish. Praise God! Every parent knows that sometimes the baby is going to have a bad day. We recommend you sit on the end of a pew, if you can. If your child becomes noisy or starts to cry please take them outside the main sanctuary of church and into the gathering space (lobby). Best to not wait more than a few seconds to move to the back of the church, but also remember to come back into the church as soon as you can. There is no reason to be embarrassed about having to quiet your child in the back of the church. We love you and your children, but we also want to be conscious of all our parishioners as they attempt to worship at Mass.