Please observe the basic standards of dress for attendance at church services in all CMRI churches. We invite you to assist at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. You may receive Holy Communion if you are in the state of Sanctifying Grace, have observed the rules of fasting (1 hour from liquids (water being the exception) and 3 hours from solid foods.
Also, following these rules, you should understand that you may receive Holy Communion only if you are committed to exclusively attending the Traditional Latin Mass and not the Novus Ordo.
- Be on time for the start of Mass. It is a venial sin to come late after the Mass has begun unless it could not be helped. If one arrives after the Gospel, one is late and must strive to attend another Mass for it is a mortal sin to miss Mass on Sunday when it's possible to attend. Dedicated Catholics, especially Traditional Catholics make it a point to arrive early enough to spiritually prepare before Mass. The opportunity for Confession and reciting the Rosary with the rest of the parish prior to Mass are more incentives to come early to Holy Mass.
- Upon entering the chapel or Mission Room, bless yourself with holy water (using the right hand). When the Blessed Sacrament is present (in the chapel always), genuflect on the right knee in adoration of Christ's True Presence in the holy tabernacle.
- Never leave before the end of the Mass. It's a good idea to remain at least until after the candles have been extinguished. Those receiving Holy Communion should remain in prayer for at least 15 minutes after receiving our Lord.
- Always dress in a manner appropriate to Divine Worship.
- Women and girls must cover their heads. Chapel veils or mantillas are available for loan in the vestibules of most chapels.
- Women and girls must wear dresses or skirts that cover the knee completely when standing or sitting. Slacks, shorts, sleeveless, tight or low-cut clothing, and dresses or skirts with long slits are not permitted.
- Men and boys should wear suit coats and ties. Jeans and other casual attire are inappropriate for attendance at church services.
Since you are attending a King, the King of kings, is it not sensible that you would wear your best? Also, a Catholic's decorum at Holy Mass can give greater honor and glory to Almighty God, give good example and edification to others, and increase our faith and devotion to the Real Presence of our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.
Finally, it is important to note that a Traditional Catholic is not just Catholic on Sunday or at Holy Mass, but at all times, always behaving beyond reproach, taking great care not to cause scandal or place themselves in the occasions of sin.
