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What To Notice When Picking Funeral Mass Attire
Catholic rites for the dead are quite formal and filled with ritualistic prayers and recitations. For those who are not part of this religion, there may be some confusion as to how they should behave when attending these services. There are some general guidelines about how one should dress when going to a funeral mass.
When a Catholic passes away, the traditional services consist of three parts, the second of which is known as the Requiem. During this event the deceased is honored and their soul is prayed for and comfort is provided to all who are grieving. The occasion rarely lasts longer than an hour and a half.
Respectful clothing should be worn to any memorial service, especially those being held in a religious setting. Sweats, shorts, tee shirts, shorts and jeans are much too casual for these types of occasions. A simplified tip is to dress as if one were going to church or to a very important business meeting.
Men are encouraged to wear suits and ties or at least a pair of dress pants and a button up shirt, all in neutral tones. Women should choose dresses or skirts that have a hemline long enough to cover the knees when standing or sitting, or a conservative pantsuit. Bright colors, bold patterns, bare shoulders and immodest necklines are strongly discouraged.
In this particular Catholic service, men should not keep their hats on upon entering the building. Women, on the other hand, are expected to have some type of covering on their heads. Some parishes and churches realize that this may not be common knowledge and will often provide veils or scarves for those ladies who do not have one of their own.
There are certain ritualistic actions such as kissing icons, statues and the priest's hand included in these procedures. As a matter of courtesy and respect, those wearing lipstick should make a point to blot it off to avoid leaving transfer. For a Catholic funeral mass, dressing conservatively and modestly is expected.
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