First Mass question

[J_Dubya]

Hello, everyone!

If it wasn’t clear by the title of this thread, I’m new.
As in, I walked into Catholic church for the first time in almost 20 years this past Monday.

I was originally going to wait to attend my first Mass (that I can remember at least) this coming Sunday, but from what I’ve been reading, Ash Wednesday seems like the perfect time for someone like me to take this momentous step.

I’m very interested in a seasoned Catholics opinion here.

Any thoughts on what I can expect?
Tips?

Obviously I won’t take part in the Communion yet, but any (name removed by moderator)ut is appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

 

[M-Dent]

I was originally going to wait to attend my first Mass (that I can remember at least) this coming Sunday, but from what I’ve been reading, Ash Wednesday seems like the perfect time for someone like me to take this momentous step.

I’m very interested in a seasoned Catholics opinion here.

Any thoughts on what I can expect?
Tips?

It may depend on the general area you are in; will you be attending Mass in a Cathedral or a smaller Church? The Liturgy/Mass in a Catholic Church is essentially the same everywhere in validity - yet local tradition and custom can vary, slightly.

My advice, listen intently to the readings. The Word speaks. You’ll be surprised how you can hear the same reading(s) over the years and draw something important and unique each time it is read. The readings on Ash Wednesday may have you reflect on how you outwardly look for approval - yet unlike any human sense; God’s eye is quite internal. God’s aware of more than we can understand.

I’ll add a prayer it’s a fruitful visit!

 

[Don_Ruggero]

Hello, everyone!

If it wasn’t clear by the title of this thread, I’m new.
As in, I walked into Catholic church for the first time in almost 20 years this past Monday.

I was originally going to wait to attend my first Mass (that I can remember at least) this coming Sunday, but from what I’ve been reading, Ash Wednesday seems like the perfect time for someone like me to take this momentous step.

I’m very interested in a seasoned Catholics opinion here.

Any thoughts on what I can expect?
Tips?

Obviously I won’t take part in the Communion yet, but any (name removed by moderator)ut is appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

You may certainly receive ashes on Ash Wednesday, if you wish.

I am unclear, based on what you write. You say this is your first time in a Catholic Church after 20 years. Were you baptised Catholic in infancy/childhood?

Regardless of your status, you should speak to your parish priest about returning to the Church, if that is your desire. Ash Wednesday is a frantic day for us, however. It is typically not a good day to try to have this sort of discussion but Thursday or Friday or on Sunday after Mass.

Expect the Ash Wednesday Masses to be crowded, whichever one you choose.

 

[Kielbasi]

If its your first Mass, take a pew with at least a few rows of worshippers in front of you.

You can follow their clues as to what posture to take- kneeling or standing- so you stay in synch with the others in attendance.

 

[amsjj]

Wishing you the best!

 

[Beryllos]

Awesome! Welcome back.

 

[Lorenz_Michael]

At communion time you càn approach the priest for a blessing, just go up with the rest but as you approach the priest cross your arms across your chest, with palms towards your shoulders. You’ll feel more fully involved, even though you won’t recieve communion. But best to get into the line where the priest is giving communion if more than one person is giving out communion. Don’t be afràid to shake hands at the sign of peace and possibly with the priest after mass if he’s standing by the exit. I pray you have a blessed mass.