When you visit
Visiting a new church can be intimidating: What should I wear? Where do I park? Where do my kids go? We understand the many thoughts that can come from visiting a new church, so we want you to feel completely comfortable when you visit. Below are some frequently asked questions. If you have any additional questions, don't hesitate to contact us or talk with an usher when you visit.
New Parishioners should register at their earliest convenience. Please do so by contacting the office to speak with Jenny Blais, the Parish Secretary. Also please take a moment to introduce yourself to Fr. Francis after Mass.
What should I wear?
We want you to feel comfortable. After all, we are thrilled that you're joining us and want you to be more focused on the liturgy and the Sacraments than what you're wearing. In the summertime, it's not uncommon to see people wearing sandals, shorts, and a shirt. Others prefer to still put on their "Sunday best," and that's fine too! However, we do request that shorts be of a conservative length (no “short-shorts”) and that in general, clothing be respectable and conservative. What then is our Sunday best? That varies from person to person, but what we should keep in mind is that our clothing should reflect our beliefs. If we are being brought to the foot of the cross, to experience God's merciful outpouring of love and mercy, we should dress in our best clothes. While it is true that God is not a "respecter of persons," it is also true that God deserves the very best we have to offer. Please keep that in mind when choosing what to wear.
Where should I park?
There are two parking lots, both with handicap spaces and wheelchair access. If you are coming for Mass the top parking lot is closest and easiest to get to. There is also an elevator in the rear if that is needed.
Where do my children go?
We try to keep our children in Mass with us. It's important for them to learn from the readings, the Homily, and most importantly to experience the Eucharist (even if they cannot yet receive.) If they are enrolled in Religious Education that will be between the two Sunday Masses. If you absolutely must take your child out for some reason, there is a small room to the back of the Sanctuary with a speaker and doors that can be closed. Keep in mind we want to see them at Mass! We understand that sometimes they will make noise and be fussy, life is part of the faith.
I’m not Catholic ... so, how do I know when to sit, stand and kneel?
Please understand you do not have to participate unless you feel led to do so. The reason we sit, stand, and kneel though is to bring attention to something important happening at Mass. You can keep your eye on the altar servers or the extraordinary ministers who will often be sitting near them. They should be giving a good example of when this happens. Also, try to keep an eye out for what is going on that moment. Something is happening and the posture shows how our internal posture should be as well for that moment.
I’m not Catholic ... is it okay for me to participate in communion?
Communion, or The Eucharist, is the most intimate expression of our faith. Catholics believe that the host is literally the body of Christ, transformed from bread by the priest presiding over the Mass. Most evangelicals think of Communion as symbolic, so it makes sense that they are not as strict about having the right relationship to it as Catholics and Orthodox Christians who believe it is a sacrament and the true presence of Christ. So, if you are not Catholic, we ask that you not receive communion. However, those not receiving the Body of Christ and Precious blood are invited to come forward with their hands crossed over their chests for a special blessing.
Am I expected to put money in the offering?
We welcome any donation but please know we are just happy you are there with us.