30/03/2019
CATHOLIC CHURCH ETIQUETTE.
VOL. ONE
When we talk about the word “Etiquette”, etymologically it is not only applied to behavior at a party, dining table or formal meetings. There is also Church Etiquette which is neglected at Holy Mass as follows:
1) One must fast for at least 1 hour before receiving the Holy Eucharist. The only exceptions are medicine, water or unless someone is ill and needs to eat.
2) Dress modestly; the Holy Mass is not a fashion show. The Holy Mass is not a part of American Fashion display. Dress in a way that gives witness to your faith as a Christian and not to seduce anyone.
3) Go early to Holy Mass, at list 30 to 15 minutes before the Holy Mass begins. And be as close to the altar as possible in order to pray silently and meditate before the Holy Mass begins.
4) Before entering the Church (that is when there is no exposition of the Blessed Eucharist), make a single genuflection by your right knee and also make a deep bow towards the Tabernacle. Christ is present for our sake at the Tabernacle, in His soul, body and divinity: By allowing our right knee to hit the floor, we are acknowledging that Christ Jesus is our Lord and God. If someone is physically unable to genuflect, then either a simple or a deep bow is sufficient. More so, during the Holy Mass, if you are passing across the altar or tabernacle, bow reverently.
5) Cross yourself with Holy Water on entering and leaving the Church. This is a reminder of our Baptism, which made us the beloved adopted sons and daughters of God. More so, the Holy Water do also defend us against evil forces.
6) When you go to Church for Holy Mass, don't stand outside the Church. Enter the Church and don’t let the blessings of the Holy Mass pass you by.
7) Cell phones should never be used during Holy Mass for checking messages, making calls, chatting or texting. Keep them on silent mode. No call is more important than the Holy Mass, unless it’s a matter of life and death.