A Guide for Parishioners at Mass

This guide is here to help you feel at ease at Mass — whether you come every week, occasionally, or are returning after a long time.

You do not need to know everything.
 You do not need to get everything right.
 You are welcome here.

What the Mass Is

The Mass is the Church’s central act of worship.

At Mass:

  • we listen to God’s Word
  • we pray together
  • we offer bread and wine
  • Jesus Christ gives Himself to us in Holy Communion

Everything that happens at Mass is meant to help us pray and draw closer to God.

If You Are New, Visiting, or Unsure

Many people worry about:

  • when to sit, stand, or kneel
  • what to say or sing
  • what to do at Holy Communion

Please be reassured:

  • it is fine to follow those around you
  • it is fine to remain seated
  • it is fine to listen quietly

No one expects you to know everything.

About the Sung Mass

Most of our Masses are sung Masses.

If you are not used to this, please don’t worry.

  • You do not need to sing
  • You do not need to know the music
  • You do not need to know the responses

It is perfectly acceptable simply to listen and pray.

Sung Mass is the Church’s normal way of celebrating Mass, where some prayers are sung rather than spoken. The music is there to support prayer, not to test you.

Order of Mass Booklets and Missals

To help you follow the Mass:

  • Order of Mass booklets are available in church
  • These guide you through what is said and sung
  • You may use them as much or as little as you wish

If you would like something more permanent:

  • Missals are available to purchase in church
  • These contain the Order of Mass and the Sunday readings

Using a booklet or missal is optional.
 Many people prefer simply to listen and pray.

Posture at Mass (Sitting, Standing, Kneeling)

Different postures help us pray in different ways.

As a general guide:

  • we stand for prayers, the Gospel, and responses
  • we sit for readings and the homily
  • we kneel during the Eucharistic Prayer

If you are unable to kneel or stand, simply remain seated.
 God understands.

Silence at Mass

Silence is an important part of the Mass.

You may notice silence:

  • before Mass begins
  • after the readings
  • after Holy Communion

Nothing has gone wrong.
 Silence is prayer.

Joining In (or Not)

You are welcome to:

  • say the responses
  • sing the hymns
  • pray quietly

You are also welcome to:

  • listen
  • observe
  • pray in your heart

Participation is not measured by how much you say or sing.

Holy Communion

Who May Receive Holy Communion?

Holy Communion is normally received by Catholics who are properly prepared.

If you are unsure whether you should receive, it is perfectly acceptable to remain seated.

No explanation is required.
 No one will think badly of you.

Coming Forward for a Blessing

Some people come forward with arms crossed to ask for a blessing.

This is optional.
 If you prefer, you may simply remain seated.

Either is fine.

How to Receive Holy Communion

If you do receive Communion:

  • approach calmly
  • bow or kneel as you are able
  • respond “Amen”
  • receive reverently

Take your time. There is no need to rush.

If You Do Not Receive Communion

Many faithful Catholics do not receive Holy Communion at every Mass.

You may remain seated:

  • without embarrassment
  • without explanation

Your presence and prayer still matter.

Children at Mass

Children are welcome at Mass.

Please do not worry if:

  • they move
  • they make noise
  • they ask questions

This is how they learn.
 A parish without children is a parish without a future.

After Holy Communion

After Communion there is usually a time of quiet.

This is a good moment to:

  • thank God
  • pray for others
  • simply be still

You do not need to fill the silence.

At the End of Mass

At the end of Mass, we are sent out to:

  • live the Gospel
  • serve others
  • carry Christ into daily life

Many people remain for a short time of quiet prayer afterwards.
 This is encouraged.

If You Have Questions or Need Help

If you are unsure about anything:

  • you are not alone
  • you are not expected to know everything

You are always welcome to:

  • speak to the priest
  • contact the parish
  • look at the parish website

A Final Word

The Mass is not a test.
 It is not a performance.
 It is an encounter with God.

Come as you are.
 Take part as you are able.
 You are welcome here.