Don't stress! As Catholics, we joyfully welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds to attend our liturgy and participate in our worship, but there are a few guidelines that might be helpful for a visitor to be conscious of.

1. You don't need to guess what's going on during church! You can just relax and enjoy the ride! :) Or..follow the Missal!

You can follow along in the missal. Most of the time you will be able to find a book in your pew that will have the readings, prayers, and songs available for you to use in order to follow along with the Mass.

2. Don't Receive the Communion.

There are many reasons why the Church asks those who have not yet received their First Holy Communion to not partake in this Holy Sacrament which you can find in the videos below. Catholics firmly believe that the Eucharist is the body, blood, soul and divinity of Jesus Christ. Please respect their beliefs by not receiving Communion at this time.

3. Sit. Stand. Kneel. ?

Though the missal lists the prayers, not all have the physical actions of prayer listed. In this case, just follow the lead of those around you! If you feel more comfortable sitting down the whole time, that is fine too.

4.Put Your Cell Phone on Airplane Mode and Keep it Your Pocket

Obviously, you’re not in an airplane, you’re in a church. However, this is more than a building. It is a sacred space set apart for the worship of God. Putting your phone on silent will help to avoid embarrassing disruptions during the quieter parts of the Mass. Out of respect and reverence, please try to refrain from texting or using the internet while you are present in the house of God.