1. How long is Mass?
Low Masses (Masses with no chant/music) are usually 30 – 45 minutes long, depending on the feast / readings. High Masses (Sung Masses) are usually 60-75 minutes long, depending on the feast / readings.
2. How do I know what is going on?
If you would like to read along with the prayers and Scripture readings at Mass, books called “missals” contain all of the texts. They are available at the entrances of the church. Ushers can help you to locate these before Sunday Mass. You may also grab a missal yourself from the bookcase by the east side entrance of the church. When you have finished, please return them before you leave the church so that others may also benefit from them. Navigating a missal can be a bit daunting at first, so don’t be afraid to ask someone nearby for help finding the right page. However, you may also just listen and pray along silently in your own words, uniting yourself with the Sacrifice of Christ.
3. Do I need to give to the collection?
During the offertory where the bread and wine are blessed and offered to God, ushers pass by each pew with collection baskets. The collection is used to support the various ministries of the church, including charitable outreach. Occasionally, a second collection will be taken for a diocesan program or some other need. Neither visitors nor registered members are required to give, but one may tithe this way and offer back to God for blessings received.
4. Can I receive communion?
To read the guidelines for the reception of Holy Communion please click here.
5. How should I dress?
As a visitor, you are our honored guest — please dress as you are comfortable while maintaining a modest and respectful appearance. Some parishioners wear suits and business attire to Sunday worship, and others dress more casually. We ask that nothing revealing or suggestive be worn, out of respect for the sacredness of the church and out of respect for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in our bodies.
6. Do I have to identify myself as a visitor?
No. Our parish will not ask you to raise your hand or be identified in any way. However, if you would like to talk to someone after Mass, please feel free to speak with Fr. Gonzalez or one of the greeters welcoming you to worship.
7. Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a heart open to hearing the Word of God and a willingness to let Him transform your life through the graces which flow from the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
