Dress Code for Liturgical Ministers

DRESS CODE FOR LITURGICAL MINISTERS

The focus of the members of the congregation should be on the Mass, not on the appearance of the Liturgical Minister. Ministers should dress respectfully and with decorum. Clothing that is too casual or too flamboyant will distract the congregation from the Holy Sacrifice of the Altar. Attire that is immodest may cause scandal amongst God’s people.

• For men, appropriate attire would include either a suit or conservative sports jacket and dress slacks. A necktie, while most appropriate and encouraged, is not required. Jeans, shorts, open shirts, sports jerseys, sneakers and other such casual dress are inappropriate and do not meet the standards for assisting at the Eucharist.

• For women, appropriate attire would include dresses, dress slacks, skirts and blouses (or sweaters) and suit. Dresses and skirts should be modest in length (i.e. to the knee). A modest neckline is recommended for dresses, sweaters and blouses. Short skirts or dresses, revealing blouses (such as low cut, sleeveless or see-through), or shorts of any length do not meet the standards for assisting at the Eucharist.

• Clothing for both men and women should fit comfortably and not be formfitting or tight.

• For daily liturgies, the minister’s dress may be somewhat more casual, but should still adhere to the general principles described above. For example, men might choose to wear dress slacks and a polo shirt or sweater. However, jeans and shorts are never to be considered appropriate dress.

• Please be advised that the priest and/or Deacon reserve(s) the right to request any liturgical minister not to serve who, in his prudent judgment, does not meet the requirements of this Dress Code.

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church: “The Mass is at the same time, and inseparably, the sacrificial memorial in which the sacrifice of the cross is perpetuated and the sacred banquet of communion with the Lord’s body and blood is made present” (CCC #1382). Moreover the Catechism recognizes the need for outward signs of our inward understanding of just what is happening at Mass. “Bodily demeanor (gestures, clothing, attitudes) ought to convey the respect, solemnity, and joy of this moment when Christ becomes our guest” (CCC #1387). Jesus Christ Himself, not a symbol, not a reminder, but the man Himself, becomes substantially present in the Eucharistic host. Each time we receive Communion, our hearts should be echoing the words of the Apostle John as he recognized the risen Christ on the seashore: “It is the Lord!” Truly it is the Lord who comes to dwell within us; how can that moment cause anything but an attitude of reverence and awe?

We anticipate that this Dress Code will assist our parish family in fostering a deeper respect and reverence at Mass. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Rectory. May God continue to bless all of us as we worthily serve at the Altar of the Lord.