Some basic Catholic etiquette
Receiving Communion is permissible either in the hand or directly on the tongue. If Communion is to be received in the hand, one hand should be placed on top of the other in the form of a cross. The hands should be elevated enough for easy placement by the priest. After receiving the Host, step to the side and place it into your mouth. Those who wish to receive on the tongue should tilt their heads back slightly and extend their tongue.
Be sure the ringers on cell phones or pagers are turned off before entering the church. Our arrival time and first gestures should reflect reverence. Arrive ten to fifteen minutes early to ensure parking, seating, and a short, silent prayer prior to the start of Mass. After communion, it is appropiate to remain kneeling until the priest returns to his seat.
The Mass is the center of our lives, not because it takes us away from our worldly involvements, but because it empowers us to deal with those involvements in the name and with the energy of Christ, Himself - Quote from Catholic Etiquette
Try to be timely. It is distracting when people arrive to Mass late.
When in the pew, you should quietly pray to yourself or meditate. This isn't the time to socialize with your friends. If you must talk, make it brief and whisper.
During Mass, it's for quiet except at the appropriate time. Don't allow your children to wander the aisles and be disruptive. When the child isn't settling, consider taking them to the Parent's Room. Once they have calmed down, please feel free to bring them back into the congregation.
When you are sick, it is polite not shake hands because of the risk of spreading germs. You can politely say, "Peace be with you".
The final part of Mass is singing a last hymn. It is courteous to stay until the song is over. Leaving beforehand, on a weekly basis, is considered rude behavior.
Please fold and place the Orders of Worship neatly on the table as you exit Mass.
The crying room, or training room, is for children who are learning to attend Mass. Despite being separated from the main sanctuary, the room is not soundproof.
