Avoid strong perfumes and colognes. These can irritate health conditions such as asthma and make it difficult for people to focus. Avoid flashy or revealing clothes and makeup. While these might be appropriate for a fun night out with friends, church is not the best place to show off. Keep it modest today. Not everybody has nice clothes. People in poverty may not be able to afford them, and people with certain disabilities may be unable to tolerate itchy or stiff fabrics. If that’s the case for you, don’t worry. Just dress as well as you can, and stay comfortable. God knows you are doing your best.
While you wait for mass to begin, you might pray silently, or quietly socialize with the people around you. Be sure to focus and stop talking when mass begins. If you are running late, enter as quietly and discreetly as possible. Try entering during a transition period, so it’s less of an interruption.
If there’s an illness going around (e. g. during flu season), or if you’re very afraid of germs, it’s okay not to shake hands. You might say “I’d rather not shake hands, but I’m happy to see you. "
Avoid swearing in church. Be understanding of people who are a little different. You don’t know what type of cross they have to carry, so don’t be rude. Assume that they are doing their best. Don’t speak in degrading ways about LGBT+ people, people with disabilities, the poor, people of color, and other minorities. God teaches us to judge not. These people need love and respect, not scorn. Don’t ever joke about or mock Christianity in churches, especially in the more conservative areas in the world. Christians will be very offended and it is extremely disrespectful to churchgoers. Don’t speak badly about Christianity either.
Do your best to be mature during the sermon, even if the topic is uncomfortable (like premarital sex) or you aren’t sure you agree with the priest. Some people have trouble focusing. If your mind wanders easily, it’s okay to say a freestyle prayer in your head to God for a while. Singing is a great way to participate and feel closer to God. If you’re shy, it’s okay to sing quietly, or just follow the words with your mind. (God isn’t picky. )
Some mobility disabilities can be quite painful. Staying still and focusing on the sermon is better than moving around and being in too much pain to concentrate on God. Churches can be crowded and stuffy, and some people may be at risk of fainting. If you faint easily, make sure you don’t stand up too quickly. It’s okay to stay sitting, or to quietly take a break if needed.
Don’t feel like you have to stay in church if you’re feeling faint! God wouldn’t want you to hurt yourself. Get fresh air or a drink. If you aren’t sure if you can stand safely, quietly ask someone to walk with you and catch you if you fall. There’s no shame in having a disability like ADHD or autism. God made you unique, and that means that you’re going to act differently sometimes. It’s okay to take a break if you need one. You can even pray quietly at the drinking fountain if it makes you feel better. We all worship in our own ways.
Someone with high energy can run around a little before church, to burn off some of their energy. It’s okay for them to bring a small toy or two to church, as long as it’s something quiet. This can sometimes be an outlet for energy, and prevent them from distracting others. If they like to draw, they may be content to bring basic drawing materials. If you suspect they might get hungry in church, try bringing a snack that won’t leave crumbs (like grapes). This is much better than a messy snack. You want to make it easy for the janitor. If you see them getting antsy or upset, suggest that they take a break to get a drink or use the restroom. This is usually enough to help them refocus. If they need constant supervision, you can go with them.
If someone is coming, do your best to move out of the way.
