New Here?

You are very welcome.

Whether this is your first visit to a Catholic church, you are visiting the area, or you haven’t been to Mass for a long time, please know this from the start:

You are welcome to come as you are.

There is no expectation to know what to do or to take part in everything.

If You’ve Never Been to Mass Before

A Catholic Mass is a time of prayer, Scripture, and worship.

People will:

  • stand, sit, and kneel at different moments
  • listen to readings from the Bible
  • pray together
  • share in moments of silence

If you are unsure what to do, simply remain seated and observe.
No one will mind.

Being present is already enough.

If You Are Returning After Some Time Away

Many people return to Mass after years away.
This is more common than you might think.

You may feel unsure, awkward, or out of practice — that is completely normal.

You are not expected to explain yourself.
You are not being watched or judged.

You are simply welcome to return.

Holy Communion

During Mass, Catholics may come forward to receive Holy Communion.

If you are not Catholic, or if you are not ready to receive Communion, you may:

  • remain seated, or
  • come forward for a blessing putting your hand across to the opposite shoulder

No explanation is required.

What to Wear

There is no dress code.

People come dressed in many different ways.
Wear what is comfortable and respectful.

Our Worship

In our parish:

  • Mass is usually sung, especially on Sundays
  • incense is used at most Sunday Masses (except the 6:00pm Mass)
  • weekday Masses are simpler and quieter

If you would like more detail, please see What to Expect at Mass.

Children and Families

Children are most welcome at Mass.

At St Edward’s, the 9am Sunday Mass includes Children’s Liturgy throughout the year.

At St Mary’s, Children’s Liturgy is offered during term time, and we are working to expand this provision.

Please do not worry about children making noise or needing to move about.
No one expects perfection. Families are welcome just as they are.

After Mass

Some people stay to pray quietly.
Some greet one another and stay for coffee.
Some leave straight away.

All of this is normal.

Taking the Next Step

If you would like to:

  • learn more about the Catholic faith
  • return to the practice of the faith
  • explore becoming Catholic

there are gentle pathways available, and you are not expected to decide anything quickly.

You are welcome simply to come, pray, and take things at your own pace.

A Final Word

You do not need to understand everything.
You do not need to do everything.

You are welcome simply to come.

If you have any questions, or would like to speak to someone, please contact Fr. John Owens at frowens@pm.me.