Sitting in a Catholic church is generally a fairly straightforward and comfortable process. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:
When to Sit/Stand/Kneel:
* Entering the Pew:
* Silence and Reverence: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor as you enter the church.
* Genuflect: If the Blessed Sacrament (consecrated Eucharist) is reserved in the tabernacle (usually indicated by a lit sanctuary lamp), genuflect towards the altar as you enter the pew. Genuflection is done by bending your right knee to the floor and making the sign of the cross. If you have difficulty genuflecting you may bow your head reverently.
* Slide into the Pew: Step into the pew sideways, facing the altar. Allow others to pass if necessary.
* During the Mass (Liturgy):
* Sit: You'll sit for readings from the Bible (except the Gospel), the homily (sermon), and during musical meditations.
* Stand: You'll stand:
* When the priest enters and processes to the altar.
* For the Gospel reading.
* During the Creed (profession of faith).
* During the "Pray, brethren..." invitation (between the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist).
* During the *Orate Fratres*.
* During the *Sanctus* (Holy, Holy, Holy).
* During the Great Amen
* During the Lord's Prayer (Our Father).
* For the final blessing.
* When the priest processes out at the end of Mass.
* Kneel: You'll kneel:
* After the *Sanctus* as the priest begins the Eucharistic Prayer. You will kneel until after the Great Amen.
* Some churches have the congregation kneel after the *Agnus Dei* (Lamb of God) during the Communion Rite.
* Communion:
* Moving Forward: When it's time for Communion, people will typically leave their pews and proceed forward in an orderly fashion to receive the Eucharist. Follow the flow of those around you.
* Receiving Communion: When you approach the priest or Eucharistic minister:
* By Hand: Extend your hands, palms up, one on top of the other (left on top if you are right-handed, right on top if you are left-handed). The minister will place the host in your hand. Step aside, remove the host from your hand and place it in your mouth immediately, and return to your pew.
* By Mouth: Open your mouth and extend your tongue slightly. The minister will place the host on your tongue. Return to your pew.
* "Amen": The priest or minister will say "The Body of Christ." You respond with "Amen."
* Returning to Pew: After receiving Communion, return to your pew and spend a few moments in silent prayer and reflection.
* Exiting the Pew:
* Silence and Reverence: As with entering, maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor as you leave.
* Genuflect: Genuflect again toward the altar (if the Blessed Sacrament is present) as you exit the pew.
Important Considerations:
* Follow the Lead: If you're unsure what to do, look around and follow the lead of the people around you.
* No Pressure: Don't feel pressured to participate in any action that makes you uncomfortable. It's okay to remain seated or standing if you are unable or unwilling to kneel, for example.
* Health Considerations: If you have physical limitations that prevent you from standing, kneeling, or genuflecting, it's perfectly acceptable to remain seated.
* Non-Catholics: If you are not Catholic, you are welcome to attend Mass, but you should not receive Communion.
* Hymnals and Missals: Churches often provide hymnals (songbooks) and missals (books containing the prayers and readings for Mass) in the pews. You can use these to follow along.
* Respectful Attire: Dress respectfully. While there's no strict dress code, avoiding overly casual or revealing clothing is generally appreciated.
* Silence: Maintain silence inside the church, especially before, during, and after Mass.
* Electronic Devices: Turn off or silence cell phones and other electronic devices.
* Children: If you have young children, do your best to keep them quiet and respectful. Many churches have a "cry room" or designated area for families with young children.
In Summary:
Sitting in a Catholic church involves understanding the postures (sitting, standing, kneeling) and when to perform them, respecting the sacredness of the space, and participating in the Mass to the best of your ability. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask an usher or another parishioner for assistance. People are generally happy to help newcomers.