Appropriate Behavior

By RH

      We have all been in a situation where we are invited to a special place or to meet a special person. When this happens, we spend a lot of time getting ready; picking out the right clothing, taking a shower, making sure our hair is at its best. Depending on who this person is, you may need to ask someone about appropriate behavior or proper greetings. This is good etiquette.

      When you go to a friend’s home, you dress appropriately and eat and drink what is offered to you. You are generally on your best behavior. That’s good etiquette.

      When you come to Mass, Jesus is inviting you to His special place to spend time with Him. This is the same Jesus who gave His life of each of us. His Father is the same Father who made each of us and loves us as we are. The Holy Spirit is there, too. He is the same Spirit who gives us strength and courage to follow Jesus. Just as there is proper etiquette in other times and places in our lives, there is proper etiquette for our time in God’s house.

      The church is a special place - different from any other place in our lives. Where else do you genuflect to the Presence of Jesus? Where else do you bless yourself with holy water when you walk through the door? Where else can you participate in the Consecration and receive Jesus into your heart? Where else can you join with others and pray openly and worship God? In this special place, we should consider where we are - whose house is this? It is not appropriate for men to wear hats or caps inside church. It is not appropriate to chew gum, talk loudly (other people are there to pray) or act as if you were in an auditorium. Clothing should be modest. After receiving Jesus in Communion, hands should be folded as you walk back to your pew and some time should be spent in prayer and praise, thanking Him for all He has done for you. If you remember where you are and whose house it is, you will know how to act and dress - good church etiquette.