A First Timer's Guide to Mass (FAQs below)
Catholic Christians celebrate faith in God in many ways, but our essential core act of communal worship is the Mass.
In today’s noisy, fast paced world, it is easy to find newer types of church services and different forms of spirituality.
The Mass, however, was established by Jesus at the Last Supper, and its roots go far back into the Old Testament. It was the worship ritual of the very first Christians and continues to our present day.
The Mass is sacred, mystical, ancient. The Mass invites us, individually and collectively, to slow down in a quiet space to contemplate, listen, and pray. At Mass we are fed by Scripture and by the True Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, the source and summit of our faith. As St. Augustine said, "Become what you have received." Being nourished by Christ, we are empowered to go out and share the light and love of Christ to all we encounter.
Attending Mass for the first time can seem complex or intimidating, but with the right mindset and an open heart, it can be an insightful and inspiring experience. Rest assured, no one will be watching your every move. Just relax and observe the sights and sounds. Take time to be silent, pray, and listen closely to the Word of God.
You may be surprised at how the sacred nature of the Mass affects you.
Below are some common questions people often ask about attending Catholic Mass:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Mass?
Mass lasts about an hour. You are encouraged to stay until the priest and other ministers process out of church and the music ends.
What happens during Mass?
The first part of the Mass is called the LITURGY OF THE WORD. There is an opening song, a prayer, and a reading from the Old Testament, followed by a sung Psalm and a reading from the New Testament. Then everyone stands as the priest reads the Gospel and gives his homily (sermon.) The creed and the prayers of the faithful conclude the Liturgy of the Word.
The second half of Mass is the LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST. The bread and wine are brought forward and then consecrated by the priest (to become the Body and Blood of Jesus). After the consecration, the Our Father is prayed and a Sign of Peace is exchanged. The congregation then comes forward to receive communion. After communion, there is a prayer and a closing song.
Can I receive Communion?
Most Christian churches do not believe that the body and blood of Christ become truly present during the liturgy. The Catholic Church has always believed and taught this.
To receive the Eucharist at a Catholic Church is to wholeheartedly say Amen (or, Yes! So be it! I believe!) to the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist and to the teachings of the Church, with full integrity of one's belief and actions.
We are sorrowful at this division of belief within the Body of Christ, because Jesus said "that they may all be one" (John 17:21).
Because of this division, those who are not already Catholic should not receive communion at Mass.
We do invite those not receiving the Eucharist to come forward at communion to receive a blessing. When approaching the priest or Eucharistic minister, simply cross your arms over your chest and they will gladly pray a short blessing over you.
What is expected at the Sign of Peace?
After praying the Lord’s Prayer (the Our Father) we exchange a Sign of Peace. With a smile or nod, people say to each other, “Peace be with you.” Families will often hug or shake hands, but it is not necessary or expected to make contact with others.
Is there a lot of standing?
Throughout the Mass the congregation will stand, sit, and kneel. You are encouraged to follow in these postures of prayer as you feel comfortable; if not, you are welcome to remain seated.
Are there hymnals or prayer books?
No. During the pandemic we did away with shared hymnals. Music is now printed in our bulletin, so pick one up on your way in. Some prayers will be projected on the walls.
How should I dress?
We encourage respectful and modest dress for Mass. Most of our parishioners wear neat, casual clothing; some wear suits and business attire.
It is not unusual to see a few Gulf Coast vacationers dressed more casually.
As a visitor, you are our honored guest — please dress as you are comfortable.
Do I have to give to the collection?
Collection baskets are passed person-to-person down each pew. The collection is used to support the various ministries of the church, including charitable outreach to our community.
No one is required to give.
Parishioners commit themselves to support their church as an offering back to God.
Visitors are not expected to give, but may do so if they wish.
What if my child gets fussy?
We love to see children of all ages come to church. We understand that they can become fidgety so please don't feel bad when they do.
In the event your child needs a break during Mass, just stand up and go. You can relocate to the Cry Room (at the back of the church near the restrooms) where you can still see and hear the Mass. Or, feel free to talk a walk outside.
Do I have to identify myself a a visitor or non-Catholic?
No. We will not ask you to raise your hand, fill out a visitor’s card, or put you on the spot in any way.
However, if you would like to introduce yourself, please do so! We’d love to welcome you and hear where you are from.