|
Proper Behavior in Church |
|
Return
to Church Talk Section
|
|
 |
Proper Church Conduct
"Therefore,
[those who] are receiving the unshakable kingdom should have gratitude,
with which we should offer worship pleasing to God in reverence and
awe." (St. Paul, Heb. 12:28)
|
|
Introduction
Catholics are
the most blessed of all people on this earth. We are able to daily
receive the incomparable (and unmerited) gift of the precious Body &
Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ in Holy Communion. It would seem that reverence due this great gift would need no instruction.
Regrettably, however, it is not uncommon to see those at Holy Mass act
and dress in such a manner appropriate not even for a picnic.
How can such
scandalous behavior and dress not be offensive to our Lord? Do we
forget that St. Paul tells us that whoever receives Holy Communion unworthily
"will have to answer for the body and blood of the Lord" (1
Cor. 11:27)? Does it make no impression on us that the wedding guest in
Christ's parable was thrown out into the darkness "where there will
be wailing and grinding of teeth" (see Mt. 22) because he failed to
wear the proper garment? Do we forget that we will have to answer for
every single action of ours at our judgment? Do we fool ourselves into thinking that the Lord has no concern over our appearance and actions? Do
we hope to be saved by blaming our behavior on our "just doing what
everyone else does"?
God forbid
that we make such mistakes! Considering that the very purpose for which
we were created is "to know, love, and serve God", our failure
to faithfully do so can only be ruinous. We hope that the short
introduction provided herein and the resources provided below may be
helpful in correcting such abuses.
"All
the faithful should be aware that to participate in the eucharistic
sacrifice is their chief duty and supreme dignity, and that not in an
inert and negligent fashion, giving way to distractions and
day-dreaming, but with such earnestness and concentration that they may
be united as closely as possible with the High Priest" (Pope Pius
XII, Mediator Dei)
"Do's"
and "Don'ts" of Church Conduct
For the glory and
honor of God and for the benefit of yourself and of all parishioners,
please make note of the following Church Conduct Do's
and Don'ts:
|
"When you hear Mass,
do you come in the same frame of mind as the Blessed Virgin at
Calvary? Because it is the same God, and the same Sacrifice."
(St. John Vianney)
"Now the exhortation
of the Apostle, 'Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ
Jesus," requires that all Christians should possess, as far
as humanly possible, the same dispositions as those which the
divine Redeemer had when He offered Himself in sacrifice: that is
to say, they should in a humble attitude of mind, pay adoration,
honor, praise and thanksgiving to the supreme majesty of God.
Moreover, it means that they must assume to some extent the
character of a victim, that they deny themselves as the Gospel
commands, that freely and of their own accord they do penance and
that each detests and satisfies for his sins. It means, in a word,
that we must all undergo with Christ a mystical death on the cross
so that we can apply to ourselves the words of St. Paul, 'With
Christ I am nailed to the cross.'" (Pope Pius XII,
Mediator Dei) |
|
|
"Nothing
so becomes a church as silence and good order. Noise belongs to
theatres, and baths, and public processions, and market-places: but
where doctrines, and such doctrines, are the subject of teaching,
there should be stillness, and quiet, and calm reflection, and a haven
of much repose." (St. John Chrysostom, Doctor of the
Church) "Let
all mortal flesh be silent, standing there...in fear and trembling;
for the King of kings, the Lord of lords, Christ our God is about to
be sacrificed and to be given as food to the faithful." (St.
James) "Silence
in the presence of the Lord GOD!" (Zeph. 1:7) "But
the LORD is in his holy temple; silence before him, all the
earth!" (Hab. 2:20) "When
you are before the altar where Christ reposes, you ought no longer to
think that you are amongst men; but believe that there are troops of
angels and archangels standing by you, and trembling with respect
before the sovereign Master of Heaven and earth. Therefore, when you
are in church, be there in silence, fear, and veneration." (St.
John Chrysostom, Doctor of the Church) "The
worship rendered by the Church to God must be, in its entirety,
interior as well as exterior... But the chief element of divine
worship must be interior" (Pope Pius XII, Mediator Dei) |
|
Talkative
women should take special
note of St. Paul's admonition in 1 Cor. 14:33-37:
|
"...As
in all the churches of the holy ones, women should keep silent in the
churches, for they are not allowed to speak, but should be
subordinate, as even the law says. But if they want to learn anything,
they should ask their husbands at home. For it is improper for a woman
to speak in the church.... what I am writing to you is a commandment
of the Lord." (St. Paul, 1 Cor. 14:33-37) [Note: See
Resources
for printable flier on this topic]
|
|
-
Attend
each Mass as if it was your first - and last one.
-
Arrive
early and prepare properly for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
-
Focus
on the priest (who is in the place of Christ) during Mass, not on your
neighbor. No time is more advantageous to you for gaining graces. [For
more information, try the Sacraments
Section.]
-
Acquire
and use an appropriate missal during Mass.
-
Wear
appropriate clothing to church.
Clothing should be modest and should
not be tight-fighting or clingy. Bathing
suits, shorts, halter tops, and
t-shirts are unsuitable attire, as are sleeveless dresses, low cut
tops, skirts above the knees, tops exposing the stomach or back,
clothes with advertising or logos, see-thru clothing, suggestive
clothing, etc. (If you cannot afford appropriate attire, contact a
good Catholic charity for assistance in obtaining proper church
clothing.)
|
"Give
to the LORD the glory due his name! Bring gifts, and enter his
presence; worship the LORD in holy attire. Tremble before him, all
the earth; he has made the world firm, not to be moved." (1
Chron. 16:29-30) "The
dress of the body should not discredit the good of the soul."
(St. Cyprian) "A
person who is about to make a request to a secular prince takes pains
to compose himself and his words by decent dress, becoming gesture,
regulated speech and close attention of mind. How much more careful
ought he to be in all these things when he is about to pray to
almighty God in a sacred place!" (Council of Basel) "One
cannot sufficiently deplore the blindness of so many women of every
age and condition; made foolish by desire to please, they do not see
to what a degree the indecency of their clothing shocks every honest
man, and offends God. Most of them would formerly have blushed for
such apparel as for a grave fault against Christian modesty; now it
does not suffice for them to exhibit themselves on the public
thoroughfares; they do not fear to cross the threshold of the Churches
to assist at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and even to bear the
seducing food of shameful passions to the Eucharistic Table where one
receives the heavenly Author of purity. And We speak not of those
exotic and barbarous dances recently imported into fashionable
circles, one more shocking than the other; one cannot imagine anything
more suitable for banishing all the remains of modesty." (Pope
Benedict XV) "Women
must be decently dressed, especially when they go to church. The
parish priest may, with due prudence, refuse them entrance to the
church and access to the reception of the Sacraments, each and
every time that they come to the church immodestly dressed."
(General Pastoral Directive, 20th Century A.D.) "Similarly,
(too,) women should adorn themselves with proper conduct, with modesty
and self-control, not with braided hairstyles and gold ornaments, or
pearls, or expensive clothes, but rather, as befits women who profess
reverence for God, with good deeds." (St. Paul, 1 Tm. 2:9-10) "A
man's attire, his hearty laughter and his gait, proclaim him for what
he is." (Sirach 19:26) |
|
|
"But
any woman who prays or prophesies with her head unveiled brings shame
upon her head, for it is one and the same thing as if she had had her
head shaved. For if a woman does not have her head veiled, she may as
well have her hair cut off. But if it is shameful for a woman to have
her hair cut off or her head shaved, then she should wear a veil. A
man, on the other hand, should not cover his head, because he is the
image and glory of God, but woman is the glory of man. For man did not
come from woman, but woman from man; nor was man created for woman,
but woman for man; for this reason a woman should have a sign of
authority on her head, because of the angels." (St. Paul, 1 Cor.
11:5-10) [Note: See Resources
for printable flier on this topic]
|
|
-
Turn
off phones, pagers, alarms, etc.
before entering the church.
-
Bless
yourself with holy water and make a good sign of the
cross upon entering the church (recalling the gift of your baptism).
-
Genuflect
towards the Tabernacle and make a sign
of the Cross before entering the pew
and when passing the Tabernacle. Remember that the Holy Eucharist
contains the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of the Lord Jesus Christ. Nothing
on earth is more holy. If you
do not treat It reverently, what on earth is sacred to you?
-
Adopt
an attitude of piety, humility, and
reverence while in church.
|
"[You
should approach more reverently than if you] were about to approach
all the rulers in the whole world seated together in one
place." (St. Thomas More)
"But,
assuredly, all of the duties which man has to fulfill, that without
doubt, is the chiefest and holiest which commands him to worship God
with devotion and piety." (Pope Leo XIII)
"Holy
things must be treated in a holy way and this sacrifice is the most
holy of all things." (Council of Trent)
"The
LORD'S eyes are upon the reverent" (Ps. 33:18)
"Keep
my sabbaths, and reverence my sanctuary. I am the LORD." (Lev.
26:2)
"[E]xternal
actions are signs of internal reverence" (St. Thomas Aquinas,
Doctor of the Church and "greatest theologian in the history of
the Church")
"Among
sins opposed to religion, the more grievous is that which is the
more opposed to the reverence due to God." (St. Thomas Aquinas,
Doctor of the Church and "greatest theologian in the history of
the Church")
"[T]he
end of religion is to pay reverence to God. Wherefore whatever
pertains directly to irreverence for God is opposed to
religion." (St. Thomas Aquinas, Doctor of the Church and
"greatest theologian in the history of the Church") |
|
-
Noisy
or distracting children should be taken outside the church, taken to the crying room, or
left with appropriate babysitters.
-
Some
parishioners need to be seated at the
end of an isle for medical or other
reasons. Respect their needs.
-
Pay
attention to the priest during Mass. Note, however, that it is acceptable to pray
the Rosary (silently) during Mass as indicated by Pope Pius XII:
|
"So
varied and diverse are men's talents and characters that it is
impossible for all to be moved and attracted to the same extent by
community prayers, hymns and liturgical services. Moreover, the needs
and inclinations of all are not the same, nor are they always constant
in the same individual. Who, then, would say, on account of such a
prejudice, that all these Christians cannot participate in the Mass
nor share its fruits? On the contrary, they can adopt some other
method which proves easier for certain people; for instance, they can
lovingly meditate on the mysteries of Jesus Christ or perform other
exercises of piety or recite prayers which, though they differ from
the sacred rites, are still essentially in harmony with them."
(Pope Pius XII, Mediator Dei, On the Sacred Liturgy, 1947) |
|
Note:
If you pray the Rosary during Mass, be careful not to make noise with your
Rosary beads. This can be very distracting to those around you.
-
Observe
the required Eucharistic fast. Note that this is considered a grave
obligation.
-
When
the sacred Host is elevated during the
Consecration, say silently "My
Lord and My God". Historically, indulgences have been attached
to this practice.
|
"All
those are damned who see the Sacrament of the Body of Christ on the
altar in the form of bread and wine by the words of our Lord in the
hands of the priest, yet do not see or believe in spirit and in God
that this is really the most holy Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus
Christ." (St. Francis of Assisi) |
|
-
Show
the utmost respect and honor for the Holy Eucharist. Remember, you have
the undeniable right to receive Holy Communion on the tongue.
Do not feel compelled to put the Blessed Eucharist in your hand and
self-communicate (one should not consume the Bread of Life as one
consumes fast food!).
Occasionally, a priest may be confused
if few parishioners take Holy Communion on
the tongue - simply be patient with
the priest and remember that your
right to receive Holy Communion on the tongue
cannot be disputed. Be firm, but
patient.
|
"Wherever
I go in the whole world, the thing that makes me the saddest is
watching people receive Communion in the hand." (Mother Teresa) |
|
Note:
Modernists / liberals ["the worst enemies of the Church" (Bl.
Pope Pius IX) and "the most pernicious of all the adversaries of
the Church" (Pope St. Pius X)] have rejected the traditional
practice of receiving Holy Communion only from priests
and have fostered the Protestant-inspired practice of
'self-communicating' (instituted by the Protestant 'Reformers'
to discourage belief in the Real Presence). The indult to receive Holy
Communion in the hand is a result of their disobedience and has led to
many abuses against the Holy Eucharist. Contentious Catholics should
follow the general practice of the popes (Holy Communion administered
to the faithful on the tongue by priests) and reject the act of
self-communicating. It is your undeniable right to receive Holy
Communion on the tongue. Consistent with Catholic tradition, Catholics
should always do their utmost to receive the Holy Eucharist only
from the consecrated hands of a priest. For more information, try the Catholic
News/Current Issues section.
|
"In
the sacramental reception it has always been the custom in the
Church of God that the laity receive Communion from the priests and
that priests who are celebrating Mass give Communion to themselves.
This custom should rightly and deservedly be kept as coming down
from apostolic tradition." (Council of Trent)
"[L]aymen
are officially incompetent to dispense any sacrament: and that they
can baptize in cases of necessity, is due to the Divine
dispensation, in order that no one may be deprived of spiritual
regeneration." (St. Thomas Aquinas, Doctor of the Church and
"greatest theologian in the history of the Church")
"For
just as temple, altar, vessels, and vestments need to be
consecrated, so do the ministers who are ordained for the Eucharist;
and this consecration is the sacrament of Order [that is, Holy
Orders]." (St. Thomas Aquinas, Doctor of the Church and
"greatest theologian in the history of the Church")
"The
dispensing of Christ's body belongs to the priest for three reasons.
First, because...he consecrates as in the person of Christ. But as
Christ consecrated His body at the supper, so also He gave it to
others to be partaken of by them. Accordingly, as the consecration
of Christ's body belongs to the priest, so likewise does the
dispensing belong to him. Secondly, because the priest is the
appointed intermediary between God and the people; hence as it
belongs to him to offer the people's gifts to God, so it belongs to
him to deliver consecrated gifts to the people. Thirdly, because out
of reverence towards this sacrament, nothing touches it, but what is
consecrated; hence the corporal and the chalice are consecrated, and
likewise the priest's hands, for touching this sacrament. Hence it
is not lawful for anyone else to touch it except from necessity, for
instance, if it were to fall upon the ground, or else in some other
case of urgency." (St. Thomas Aquinas, Doctor of the Church and
"greatest theologian in the history of the Church") |
|
Note:
In the wake of the Second Vatican Council of the 1960's, the Church
has tolerated the use of so-called 'Extraordinary ministers' (lay
people distributing Holy Communion) under special circumstances.
They were to be tolerated only under extraordinary circumstances -
they were not to be a permanent fixture. Unfortunately, this
practice has resulted in much abuse to the Holy Eucharist and has
served to blur the distinction between lay people and priests. It has
also served to clearly show the wisdom of the apostolic tradition (and
its continued practice for hundreds and hundreds of years) forbidding
lay people to touch Holy Communion. [Note: The terms 'Eucharistic
ministers' and 'Extraordinary minister of the Eucharist' are both incorrect - the correct term is 'Extraordinary ministers
of Holy Communion'.]
As indicated above, Catholics
should always do their utmost to receive the Holy Eucharist only
from the consecrated hands of a priest.
-
If
at all possible, receive Holy Communion in a
kneeling position. Also, kneel
after receiving Holy Communion (if you are
physically able). Also kneel
during other appropriate points in the
Mass, regardless of what others may be doing. You are responsible to
God only for your own piety in
worship.
|
"It
is, therefore, the keen desire of the Church that all of the
faithful kneel at the feet of the Redeemer to tell Him how much they
venerate and love Him." (Pope Pius XII, Mediator Dei)
"In
the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those that are in
heaven, on earth, and under the earth" (St. Paul, Phil. 2:10)
"I
bend my knee to the Father of my Lord Jesus Christ, from whom all
paternity in heaven and on earth is named" (St. Paul, Eph.
3:14)
"Enter,
let us bow down in worship; let us kneel before the LORD who made
us." (Ps. 95:6)
"['The
Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank you, that
I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even
as this Publican.' (Lk. 18:11)] It is said 'standing,' to denote his
haughty temper. For his very posture betokens his extreme
pride." (St. Theophylact)
"But
as when the Body of our Lord lay in the sepulcher, Angels are said
to have stood by, so also at the time of consecration are they to be
believed to stand by the mysteries of Christ. Let us then after the
example of the devout women, whenever we approach the heavenly
mysteries because of the presence of the Angels, or from reverence
to the Sacred Offering, with all humility, bow our faces to the
earth, recollecting that we are but dust and ashes." (St. Bede
the Venerable, Doctor of the Church)
"But
what means His bending of knees? of which it is said, 'And he kneeled
down, and prayed'. It is the way of men to pray to their superiors
with their faces on the ground, testifying by the action that the
greater of the two are those who are asked. Now it is plain that
human nature contains nothing worthy of God's imitation. Accordingly
the tokens of respect which we evince to one another, confessing
ourselves to be inferior to our neighbors, we have transferred to
the humiliation of the Incomparable Nature. And thus He who bore our
sicknesses and interceded for us, bent His knee in prayer, by reason
of the man which He assumed, giving us an example, that we ought not
to exalt ourselves at the time of prayer, but in all things be
conformed to humility; for God resists the proud, but gives grace to
the humble." (St. Gregory of Nyssa) |
|
"Throughout
Scripture, lay people, prophets, and saints have prostrated
themselves or bowed down before God. Moses, Aaron, Abraham, and
Joshua are but a few of those who are shown to prostrate themselves
in the Bible. In the New Testament, the magi prostrate in front of
the infant Jesus, as does the man tormented by unclean spirits, and
as do the apostles at the Transfiguration of Jesus. In Revelation,
the heavenly beings also prostrate... Jesus himself prostrates in
prayer before his Father. If you would bend your knee for an earthly
king or queen, how much more should you show reverence towards your
Lord and Creator!" (Flier: "Our Responsibilities in God's
House") [Note: Click here
for flier]
Note:
Modernists / liberals ["the worst enemies of the Church" (Bl.
Pope Pius IX) and "the most pernicious of all the adversaries of
the Church" (Pope St. Pius X)] have
rejected the traditional practice of kneeling for Holy Communion.
Know, therefore, that kneeling persons are not to be denied Holy Communion because they are kneeling. Should this occur, you should take the matter up with the proper Church authorities.
|
"If
any one saith, that, by the precept of God, or, by necessity of
salvation, all and each of the faithful of Christ ought to receive
both species of the most holy sacrament not consecrating; let him be
anathema." (Council of Trent)
"If
any one saith, that the holy Catholic Church was not induced, by just
causes and reasons, to communicate, under the species of bread only,
laymen, and also clerics when not consecrating; let him be
anathema." (Council of Trent)
"Wherefore, this holy Synod, - instructed by the Holy Spirit, who is the spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the spirit of counsel and of godliness, and following the judgment and usage of the Church itself, - declares and teaches, that laymen, and clerics when not consecrating, are not obliged, by any divine precept, to receive the sacrament of the Eucharist under both species; and that neither can it by any means be doubted, without injury to faith, that communion under either species is sufficient for them unto salvation... It moreover declares, that although, as hath been already said, our Redeemer, in that last supper, instituted, and delivered to the apostles, this sacrament in two species, yet is to be acknowledged, that Christ whole and entire and a true sacrament are received under either species alone; and that therefore, as regards the fruit thereof, they, who receive one species alone, are not defrauded of any grace necessary to salvation."
(Council of Trent)
"Certain
people, in some parts of the world, have rashly dared to assert that
the Christian people ought to receive the Holy Sacrament of the
Eucharist under the forms of both bread and wine...
Therefore this present general council of Constance, legitimately
assembled in the Holy Spirit, wishing to provide for the safety of the
faithful against this error, after long deliberation by many persons
learned in divine and human law, declares, decrees and defines... that
this Sacrament ought not to be celebrated after a meal nor received by
the faithful without fasting, except in cases of sickness or some
other necessity as permitted by law or by the Church. Moreover, just
as this custom was sensibly introduced in order to avoid various
dangers and scandals, so with similar or even greater reason was it
possible to introduce and sensibly observe the custom that, although
this sacrament was received by the faithful under both kinds in the
early Church, nevertheless later it was received under both kinds only
by those confecting it, and by the laity only under the form of bread.
For it should be very firmly believed, and in no way doubted, that the
whole body and blood of Christ are truly contained under both the form
of bread and the form of wine. Therefore, since this custom was
introduced for good reasons by the church and holy fathers, and has
been observed for a very long time, it should be held as a law which
nobody may repudiate or alter at will... Those who stubbornly assert
the opposite of the aforesaid are [considered heretics]...This holy
synod also decrees and declares, regarding this matter, that
instructions are to be sent to the most reverend fathers and lords in
Christ, patriarchs, primates, archbishops, bishops, and their vicars
in spirituals, wherever they may be, in which they are to be
commissioned and ordered on the authority of this sacred council and
under pain of excommunication, to punish effectively those who err
against this decree." (Council of Constance)
|
|
Note:
The re-introduction of this practice in the Church (Communicating
under both species) was a result of disobedience within the Catholic Church. The Church has
infallibly declared that it is not necessary
to receive Holy Communion under both species. In fact, there are many
valid and compelling reasons that it is not necessary for the laity to
Communicate under both species. The disobedient reintroduction of this
practice within the Catholic Church has been traced to its Protestant
roots (Protestants reject the Church's infallible ruling). For more
information, try the Catholic
News/Current Issues section.
|
"Thanksgiving
after communion is also necessary. The prayer we make after
communion is the most acceptable to God, and the most profitable to
us." (St. Alphonsus Liguori, Doctor of the Church)
"[T]he
divine Redeemer is most closely united...with each and every one of
the faithful, and He ardently desires to speak with them heart to
heart, especially after Holy Communion" (Pope Pius XII) "When
the Mass, which is subject to special rules of the liturgy, is over,
the person who has received Holy Communion is not thereby freed from
his duty of thanksgiving; rather, it is most becoming that, when the
Mass is finished, the person who has received the Eucharist should
recollect himself, and in intimate union with the divine Master hold
loving and fruitful converse with Him. Hence they have departed from
the straight way of truth, who, adhering to the letter rather than
the sense, assert and teach that, when Mass has ended, no such
thanksgiving should be added, not only because the Mass itself is a
thanksgiving, but also because this pertains to a private and
personal act of piety and not to the good of the community. But, on
the contrary, the very nature of the sacrament demands that its
reception should produce rich fruits of Christian sanctity." (Pope
Pius XII)
"Wherefore,
if there is no time when we must not offer God thanks, and if we
must never cease from praising Him, who would dare to reprehend or
find fault with the Church, because she advises her priests and
faithful to converse with the divine Redeemer for at least a short
while after Holy Communion, and inserts in her liturgical books,
fitting prayers, enriched with indulgences, by which the sacred
ministers may make suitable preparation before Mass and Holy
Communion or may return thanks afterwards? So far is the sacred
liturgy from restricting the interior devotion of individual
Christians, that it actually fosters and promotes it so that they
may be rendered like to Jesus Christ and through Him be brought to
the heavenly Father; wherefore this same discipline of the liturgy
demands that whoever has partaken of the Sacrifice of the altar
should return fitting praise to God. For it is the good pleasure of
the divine Redeemer to hearken to us when we pray, to converse with
us intimately and to offer us a refuge in His loving Heart." (Pope
Pius XII, Mediator Dei) |
|
-
Always
exercise Christian charity towards your fellow Catholics. Don't
forget to practice
Christian behavior in the parking lot!
-
If
your parish is celebrating Mass improperly, you should discuss it
with the priest or notify the proper Church authorities. If the
problem persists, it may be necessary to switch parishes. One must
always put God first. Note that there is much false information out
there, sadly, some of it coming even from priests. Remember, you
alone are responsible for your worship and piety. If others are
behaving inappropriately, you might correct them in a gentle spirit,
but, above all, behave properly yourself - even if it means not going
along with the multitudes. At the time of judgment, you will appear
alone to answer for your conduct.
|
"Let
everything be done with due order and dignity, and let no one, not
even a priest, make use of the sacred edifices according to his whim
to try out experiments." (Pope Pius XII, Mediator Dei) "It
is necessary that the spirit of the sacred liturgy and its directives
should exercise such a salutary influence on them that nothing
improper be introduced nor anything unworthy of the dignity of the
house of God or detrimental to the sacred functions or opposed to
solid piety." (Pope Pius XII) |
|
-
Do
not provide distracting activities,
toys, or food for children (or adults) in church.
-
Do
not clap in church for any
reason. This includes good
singing and good homilies.
|
"Wherever
applause breaks out in the liturgy because of some human achievement,
it is a sure sign that the essence of liturgy has totally disappeared
and been replaced by a kind of religious entertainment." (Cardinal
Ratzinger, the future Pope Benedict XVI) "It
is not fitting that the servant should be applauded in His Master's
house." (Pope St. Pius X)
|
|
-
Do
not laugh in church.
-
Do
not eat or drink in church.
-
Do
not chew gum in church.
-
Do
not allow children to run around in church, climb on pews,
crawl across the floor, make distracting noises, face backwards, or
otherwise distract other parishioners. Remember that the church is
the Lord's house, not a playground.
|
"An
unruly child is a disgrace to its father; if it be a daughter she
brings him to poverty." (Sirach 22:3) "Train
a boy in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not swerve
from it." (Prov. 22:6)
"If
you have sons, chastise them; bend their necks from childhood."
(Sirach 7:23)** (See note below) "He
who loves his son chastises him often, that he may be his joy when he
grows up." (Sirach 30:1)
"He
who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him takes care to
chastise him." (Prov. 13:24)** (See note below)
"The
rod of correction gives wisdom, but a boy left to his whims
disgraces his mother." (Prov. 29:15)** (See note
below) "Correct
your son, and he will bring you comfort, and give delight to your
soul." (Prov. 29:17) "...
rather die childless than have godless children!" (Sirach 6:3)
"He
who spoils his son will have wounds to bandage, and will quake
inwardly at every outcry. A colt untamed turns out stubborn; a son
left to himself grows up unruly. Pamper your child and he will be a
terror for you, indulge him and he will bring you grief. Share not
in his frivolity lest you share in his sorrow, when finally your
teeth are clenched in remorse. Give him not his own way in his
youth, and close not your eyes to his follies. Bend him to the yoke
when he is young, thrash his sides while he is still small, Lest he
become stubborn, disobey you, and leave you disconsolate. Discipline
your son, make heavy his yoke, lest his folly humiliate you." (Sirach
30:7-13)** (See note below) **
The reader is reminded that discipline of children should obviously be
done within reason.
|
|
|
"How
much vice among the youth! What sloth in the old! No one takes due
care of the education of his children. If we see a man truly devout
in his old age, he is imitated by nobody. I see persons behave
disrespectfully and without due attention in the church, and even
when the priest is giving his blessing. Can any insolence be found
equal to this? Amidst such scandals, what hopes can we entertain of
the salvation of many? At a ball everyone dances in his rank,
everything is regulated and done without confusion. And here in the
company of angels, and singing the praises of God with the blessed
spirits, you talk and laugh. Should we be surprised if thunder fell
from heaven to punish such impiety?" (St. John Chrysostom,
Doctor of the Church) |
|
-
Do
not try to out-sing the choir. It may be very
distracting to your neighbors, even if your voice is very good.
-
Do
not
receive Holy Communion if you are not
properly disposed to do so.
|
"Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord unworthily will have to answer for the body and blood of the Lord."
(St. Paul, 1 Cor. 11:27)
"No
one who has a mortal sin on his conscience shall dare receive the
Holy Eucharist before making a sacramental confession, regardless of
how contrite he may think he is. This holy council declares that
this custom is to be kept forever by all Christians." (The
Council of Trent) The Council also says that "If anyone
presumes to teach, or preach, or stubbornly maintain, or defend in
public disputation the opposite of this, he is excommunicated by his
action" (Council of Trent) |
|
-
Do
not become distracted or distract others from the reality of the
Holy Sacrifice of the Mass as the re-presentation of Calvary. It is
not necessary (and may be positively wrong) to engage in actions at
church that distract you from the Lord (e.g. hand-holding or other
physical contacts with one's neighbor that are not strictly
necessary). You may engage in such actions, as appropriate, after
Mass outside of the church. [Note: The 'kiss of peace' of old was
for those who were in the peace of Christ. There is no true peace
of Christ for those who violate Christ's law (e.g. those engaging in
contraception, divorce, abortion, etc., those failing to believe in
the Real Presence, etc.). Therefore, to indiscriminately offer a
'kiss of peace' to those opposed to Christ's peace is certainly most
unsuitable. This is why some traditional Catholics prefer to kneel
and adore the Holy Eucharist during a prescribed 'kiss of peace'
rather than engage in such activities. Traditional Catholics also
tend to engage in silent prayer while others exchange distracting
'greetings'. For more on this topic, please
try here]
-
Do
not leave Mass early. Remember that the first person to leave Mass
early was Judas. [Note: Unfortunately, however, there may be
situations (e.g. cases of extreme abuse - such as the intentional
use of invalid materials, the pseudo-consecration by those not in
Holy Orders, etc.), where it may be appropriate or necessary to walk
out. Contact an appropriate Church authority for further
assistance.]
Note
that the above apply to the back as well as the main area of the Church
and also to other Church activities (i.e. Confession).
Remember
that if you aren't quiet and well-behaved, you may prevent others from
contemplating and praying. "It is not right Christian behavior to
unfairly take from someone that which is profitable to his soul."
Also, please remember that your conduct
is an example to others. We must not imitate a bad example, but set
a good one.
Also,
we must be on guard against the common error today that considers Mass not
as a Sacrifice, but as a socializing occasion or a stage show. We must
keep in mind that we gather as a community not to socialize with each
other or to be entertained, but to propitiate God, whom we have
offended, and worship Him in the Holy Sacrifice of
the Mass. Communion with our neighbor is always secondary to communion
with God. The proper time to socialize with our neighbor and to enjoy
entertainment is outside of Mass. When we are in church, we are in the
Lord's house ["a house of prayer" (Our Lord Jesus Christ, Mt.
21:13)]. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass - the true re-presentation of
Calvary - is a solemn, holy occasion and it is a prefigurement of
heavenly worship of God. If you read in Revelation how those in heaven
worship God, you will see that they are not directing
their attention towards each other, engaging in private conversation,
adopting irreverent postures, enjoying 'modern music', seeking
entertainment, etc... Rather, they seem to follow admonitions such as...
|
"Enter,
let us bow down in worship; let us kneel before the LORD who made us.
For this is our God, whose people we are, God's well-tended flock."
(Ps. 95:6-7)
"[B]ow down to the LORD, splendid in holiness.
Tremble before God, all the earth; say among the nations: The LORD
is king. The world will surely stand fast, never to be moved. God rules
the peoples with fairness." (Ps.
96:9-10)
"Serve the LORD with fear; with trembling bow down in
homage" (Ps. 2:11)
"All the ends of the earth will worship and turn to the
LORD; All the families of nations will bow low before you. For
kingship belongs to the LORD, the ruler over the nations." (Ps.
22:28-29)
"Give
to the LORD the glory due God's name. Bow down before the LORD'S holy
splendor!" (Ps. 29:2)
"My hand made all these things when all of them came to be,
says the LORD. This is the one whom I approve: the lowly and afflicted
man who trembles at my word." (Isa.
66:2)
"The
fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; prudent are all who live by
it." (Ps. 111:10)
|
|
Surely
we should take a lesson from the angels if we wish to live where they
do.
Did
You Know?
You
can still attend the Traditional Latin Mass - the highly reverent "Mass of the Saints".
It is NOT the same as the Mass said in most Catholic
parishes today.
The Mass celebrated in most Catholic parishes since the 1960's is called
the "Novus Ordo" (New Order) Mass. It was concocted by men after the Second
Vatican Council. There are numerous and significant differences
between the Traditional Latin Mass and the Novus Ordo Mass.
 Happily,
the
Traditional Latin Mass - in use for most of the life of the Church
- is
still validly said in Catholic parishes today. Contact your diocese for the nearest location of this incomparable Mass.
If this Mass is not available in your parish, petition your
pastor!
|
"Food
for Thought"
Note
that there
are various other areas of this site that you may find helpful. For
example, consider:
Church
Talk (Reflections)
More
Reflections
Church
(Topical Scripture)
Worship
(Topical Scripture)
Reverence
/ Honor to God (Topical Scripture)
House
of God / House of the Lord (Topical Scripture)
Fear
of God / Fear of the Lord (Topical Scripture)
More
Topical Scripture
Resources
Current
Issues
Holy
Eucharist / Mass (Gen'l. Info)
Latin
Mass & Catholic Tradition
Latin Mass Postures: When to Sit, Stand & Kneel at the Traditional Latin
Mass (User-Submitted Article)
'Quick Help' Pages:
A - Z |
By
Category
Sacraments
Section
Catholic
Basics
Selections
From the Baltimore Catechism
Church
Talk Notes Page
Click
Here For More...
"Announce
this to the house of Jacob, proclaim it in Judah: Pay attention to this,
foolish and senseless people who have eyes and see not, who have ears
and hear not. Should you not fear me, says the LORD, should you not
tremble before me?" (Jer. 5:20-22)
"...work out your salvation with fear and
trembling" (St. Paul, Phil. 2:12)
Spread
the Word Concerning Proper Church Behavior!
|
|
The
above is provided for informational purposes only and is not comprehensive.
We
make no guarantees regarding any item above. By using this site you
indicate agreement to all terms. For terms information, click
here.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Catholic Books & Ebooks
Click Here
|
|
Reflections (Wisdom From Popes & Saints)
Click Here
|
|
'Quick Help' Pages
Click Here
|
|
Need Help?
'Live Chat'
Click Here
|
Home
MCS Daily Digest
Quick Guide to This Site
What's New
Reception Desk
Notices
Topic Pages
'Quick Help' Pages
Books / Ebooks |
Apps
Reflections
Help |
'Live Chat'
Coming Soon
Featured Sections
URL Shortcuts
Calendar
Goals / Purpose
This site is really free?
How can I add a "post" here?
Mission Statement
Privacy Statement
Imprimatur Information
Terms of Use
by using this site, you agree to all terms
MCS Directory
Community Center
Commercial Areas
Non-Catholics
About Us
FAQs
Tell a Friend
Invite a Business
Link to Us
My Catholic Source.com Blog & RSS Feed Info.
Third Party Programs
Awards
Feedback
Contact Us
This site powered by
bfsnet.com
|
|
Now Available!
Catholic Word Search - JUMBO Edition
(Original)
(Large Print Edition)
100+ Catholic Word Searches (Incl. Advent,
Christmas, Lent, Easter, Jesus, B.V.M., Angels, Saints, Sacraments, Grace, Rosary, Fatima, And More...)
"Relaxing, educational, good
for your memory, mind, focus, vocabulary, and good for your soul!"
Get Your Copy Today!
Also
Available...
Catholic
Word Search - Bilingual Edition: Latin / English
Search Words In Latin, Meanings In English
55 Catholic Word Searches ~ "Tradition-Minded,
Relaxing & Educational!"
Topics Include: Advent, Christmas, Lent,
Easter, Jesus, B.V.M., Angels, Saints, Sacraments, Rosary & More...
"Perfect For Catholic
Teens & Adults!" ~ "Great For Home Schoolers!"
Get Your Copy Today!
Why Latin? / Latin Info.
Click link or image above for more information & to purchase.
And...
Catholic
Word Search - Bilingual Edition: French / English
Search Words In French, Meanings In English
Absolutely NO Knowledge Of
French Is Required!
50+ Catholic Word Searches ~ "Tradition-Minded,
Relaxing & Educational!"
Topics Include: Advent, Christmas, Lent,
Easter, Jesus, B.V.M., Angels, Saints, Sacraments, Rosary & More...
"Perfect For Catholic Teens & Adults!" ~ "Great
For Home Schoolers!"
Fun for any time! Also great for...
* Planning a Catholic pilgrimage to France
* Learning some (or brushing up on some) French
words
* Increasing your French vocabulary
* Adding fun to a homeschool curriculum
* Enjoying a unique challenge, even if you
don't speak a word of French!
Free Sample Here
Get Your Copy Today!
Why Learn French?
Click link or image above for more information & to purchase.
Now Available!
4
Great Inspirational Catholic Coloring Books...
Plus These Handy Coloring Books & Resources...
Lots of Love Coloring Book (Vol.1) - 40 Love-Themed / Affirming Coloring Pages (Easy/Fairly Easy) - "Includes a Variety of Coloring Pages Suitable for Children or Adults!" ~ "Great for Sharing!"
My Colors - Easy & Convenient Color Sample
Sheets ~ Coloring Resources Book: 125+ Assorted Color Sample Sheets - "Perfect
For Testing, Selecting & Organizing Pen, Marker, Pencil or Crayon Colors!"
My Colors 2 - Easy & Flexible Color
Combination Grids ~ Coloring Resources Book: 50+ Color Sample Sheets In 3 Grid
Sizes - "Perfect For Previewing, Testing & Selecting Pen, Marker, Pencil Or
Crayon Color Combinations!"
[Please Note: Proceeds from sales of these books may support My Catholic Source.com]
For More Information & To
Purchase, Click Image(s) Above
Click Here For Coloring Examples
Now Available!
700+ Consoling Thoughts From Holy Scripture
"Inspirational & Uplifting!"
"Some of the most consoling
& comforting words from Holy Scripture, all in one place!"
+ + +
Compiled From Traditional Catholic Scripture
(Douay-Rheims Translation)
Get it today!
+ + +
For More Information & To
Purchase, Click Link Below...
Kindle Version Just $7.99
Notice: Prices are subject to change
without notice and do not include any applicable taxes.
Now Available!
The iStations Book - Stations of the Cross
Two Traditional Way of the
Cross Methods for Catholics Based on Our 'Best Selling' App
Features beautiful images, TWO traditional
methods, including a Franciscan method, selected prayers in English & Latin
Get it today!
For More Information & To
Purchase, Click Link Below...
Kindle Version Just $4.99
Notice: Prices are subject to change
without notice and do not include any applicable taxes.
Now Available!
Catholic Annual Prayer Book
Includes: 365+ Daily Prayers (Jan.-Dec.);
Holiday / Seasonal Prayers; Hundreds of Prayers Indexed by Title;
Nearly 200 Aspirations / Short Prayers; Over 100 Latin Prayers & Aspirations; 500+
Topics for Meditation; Hundreds of Prayer Tips & Insights; And More...
Includes prayers drawn from Holy Scripture, the
liturgy, writings of popes & saints, the Raccolta, the Roman Breviary, the Roman
Missal, etc.
A daily prayer companion for
Catholics that is 'suitable for any year'!
Kindle Version Just $8.99
Notice: Prices are subject to change
without notice and do not include any applicable taxes.
Click Here to Buy
Now Available!
Coloring Book For Catholics: 50+ Latin
Prayers
(Beginning - Intermediate - Advanced)
"This 'unique', tradition-minded coloring book
which contains some of the most popular Catholic prayers in Latin is a fun way
to become more familiar with Latin prayers & increase Latin language retention!"
This 'educational & fun' publication is useful
for prayerful relaxation, educational recreation ('learn while you play'),
becoming more familiar with Latin prayers & hundreds of Latin words, learning or
memorizing Latin prayers, increasing Latin retention, and more...
An enjoyable and
instructive tool with respect to Latin (the 'beautiful & majestic language of
heaven' and 'official language of the Church' - a language 'consecrated' by the
inscription on the Cross that helps to foster a universal bond in prayer with
Catholics around the world), this publication is suitable for Catholics of most any
age.
+ + +
"This Catholic coloring book
- which provides hours of wholesome & educational recreation - is so much better
for your soul than television!"
+ + +
Notice: Prices are subject to change
without notice and do not include any applicable taxes.
Click Here to Buy
Now Available!
My Little Latin Mass Coloring Book
25+ Traditional Latin Mass Coloring Images For Children Or Adults [Low
Mass]
"Enjoyable & Educational!"
+ + +
Notice: Prices are subject to change
without notice and do not include any applicable taxes.
Click Here to Buy
Catholic Classics Reprint Now Available!
In Heaven We Know Our Own - Or, Solace for
the Suffering
This 'Catholic Classic', which offers consoling
'proof' that the faithful departed remember, love & care for those in heaven and
for those still remaining on earth, is a "great balm of comfort" to those who
have lost a spouse, child, parent, friend, or other loved one. "A thoughtful
bereavement gift, and a 'must-have' for grieving Catholics!"
Get your copy today!
For More Information & To
Purchase, Click Link Below...
Kindle Version Just $2.99!
Notice: Prices are subject to change
without notice and do not include any applicable taxes.
Now Available!
Setting The Record Straight About Luther
Important Things Catholics Should Know About
The 'Reformer'
Don't miss this
'eye-opening' treatise concerning Martin Luther, the catalyst / leader of the
' Reformation ' (a.k.a. Protestant Rebellion)
Includes: Facts which demonstrate that Luther
was NOT sent by God, Luther received approval of his teaching from Satan,
Luther's misbehavior, some results of Luther's teachings, Luther admits he could
be wrong, and more...
Get your copy today!
For More Information & To
Purchase, Click Link Below...
Kindle Version Just $5.99
Notice: Prices are subject to change
without notice and do not include any applicable taxes.
Now Available!
BIG Book of Latin Activities For Catholics
Beginning - Intermediate (Vol. 1)
"Suitable For Children Or
Adults!" ~ "Perfect For Home Schoolers!"
+ + +
As many faithful Catholics already know,
the majestic
Latin language – the 'official language' of the Catholic Church –
promotes unity, helps safeguard the purity of doctrine, connects us with
our Catholic ancestors, allows us to pray in "one voice", and even ties
back to the inscription on the Cross which was written in Hebrew, Latin,
and Greek. The Latin language is still used today in the precious
treasure that is the
Traditional Latin ('Tridentine') Mass, in 'everyday speech' (much of
English is derived from Latin), in mottos, in specialized fields, and in
educational endeavors. It has been shown that the study of Latin brings
many benefits. "And, Latin is truly the language of heaven!"
If you enjoy Latin, you may be glad to know that
this full-sized (8.5" x 11"), tradition-minded publication features an
assortment of activity types related to Latin (including: word searches,
crosswords, coloring activities, challenges, fill-ins, spelling bee,
quizzes, unscrambles, true/false, multiple choice, matching, cross-offs,
circling, word associations, translation exercises, and more...), and
treats of various topics (including: common Latin words, Latin language
facts, Latin grammar, nouns & verbs, abbreviations,
phrases / sayings / mottos, prefixes, cardinal numbers, grammatical gender,
inflection, word roots, diacritics / accenting, pronunciation, Latin
prayers / hymns, Scripture verses, Catholic phrases, and more...).
+ + +
" Fun & Educational! "
Get Your Copy Today!
Click Here For More Information & To Purchase
Try Here For Great Catholic Apps!
My Crucifix
For the iPad®, iPhone®,
and iPod touch®...
For the iPad®...
And Other Great Apps...
More My Catholic Source.com Media: Books & Ebooks
|
|
|
|
