Return to article: How to Attend Midnight Mass
on 7/26/2006 It is not necessary that you kneel if this is not the custom of your own church. Be aware that the person kneeling behind you will rest his/her hands on the back of your seat. It is therefore polite to move forward in your seat so that the other person has room (and does not wind up breathing down your neck). Catholics stand frequently. It is not necessary that you do so with one exception. You should, if you are able, stand while the Gospel is read. Sitting during this time may be considered offensive.
on 1/5/2006 At the beginning and end of a prayer Catholics say/do this little thing: In the name of the father (touch forehead), the son (touch stomach), and the holy (touch left shoulder) spirit (touch right shoulder), Amen. Use your right hand.
on 1/4/2006 Often, The Lord's Prayer is sung, especially at the more formal Masses. If it is recited during Mass we stop right after "Deliver us from evil" and the priest does a short prayer and then we all say in unison "for thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory etc" Occasionally we will hear an isolated voice say "For thine....." and then they stop, embarrassed. No need to be embarrassed, we are glad to have you.
on 11/22/2005 Non-Catholics may receive a blessing at Communion time in many churches. To do so, proceed to the front of the line with other members but cross your arms over your chest when approaching the priest. Guidelines for receiving the Eucharist are usually in missals found in the pews.
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