Can non-Catholics go to Mass? A visitor’s guide

You can visit even if you are unfamiliar with the faith

You may be visiting with a friend, attending a family occasion, or exploring Catholic life on your own. The US bishops’ Communion guidelines explicitly welcome other Christians and those who do not share Christian faith to the celebration of Mass.

A simple first step is to check the parish website for a public Mass time. You can contact the office beforehand if you need access information or would like someone to explain where to sit. For the order of the celebration, use the Catholic Mass guide for beginners. [1]

A small checklist for your first visit

Give yourself enough time to find the correct church or chapel. Some parishes use different entrances or buildings for weekday and Sunday Masses. An usher can help you find a worship aid or an accessible seat.

• Confirm the Mass time, address, and entrance before leaving.
• Wear something comfortable and respectful for a place of worship; ask the parish if you have a particular concern.
• Silence your phone and choose a seat where you can hear.
• Tell a friend or usher that you are visiting if you would like help following along.
• Decide beforehand to remain in your seat at Communion if you are not receiving.

Do I have to know the prayers or gestures?

You can listen when you do not know the words. Follow the worship aid when it helps, and set it aside when searching for a response makes it harder to attend to what is happening. Join the prayers you can sincerely pray.

The congregation changes posture through the Mass. You can follow as you are able and ask about an accommodation if standing or kneeling is difficult. The guide to standing, sitting, and kneeling at Mass explains the meaning behind the movement.

For a first visit, pay particular attention to the Gospel and the homily. The Mass moves from hearing Scripture and praying together into the Liturgy of the Eucharist, before its concluding blessing and dismissal. [2]

What should a non-Catholic do at Communion?

For most non-Catholic visitors, remaining in your seat in prayer is the appropriate choice. Catholic discipline includes particular provisions for some other Christians and exceptional situations. Speak to the priest beforehand about a personal sacramental question; do not infer permission from what the people around you are doing.

Some parishes have a local practice of inviting people forward for a blessing. If you are unsure, staying in your seat avoids the need to guess. Ask the parish beforehand about its practice. [1]

Other first-visit questions