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How To Dress For Funeral Mass
The Catholic church has very formal rites and rituals that are observed when a parishioner passes away. For someone not familiar with these practices, it can be somewhat confusing when their attendance is requested at such a service. The clothing one wears to a funeral mass should conform to a few simple guidelines.
As the second of three services performed for deceased Catholics, the Requiem is a formal affair. The main reason for holding it is not just to honor the one who has passed and to say prayers for their soul, but also to provide support and comfort to all who suffer the grief of loss. In general, it should take approximately ninety minutes for this occasion.
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.
Black and neutral toned suits with ties, or button up collared shirts with dress pants are the recommended clothing choices for men. Ladies are requested to opt for attire with hemlines that come below the knee when one is in both the seated and standing positions, or to wear a classic business pantsuit. There should be no bright or pastel colors, bold or floral patterns, cleavage or uncovered shoulders.
In Catholic service of this type, men are not to wear hats inside the building. Women, however, are encouraged to cover their heads with a hat, scarf or veil out of respect. Some chapels and parishes may even have veils available for those who do not have them since this is not a common daily practice.
The kissing of statues, icons and hands are common in the rituals of this service. To avoid leaving marks, as well as a form of courtesy and respect, women should avoid lipstick that transfers. Observing the rules of modesty and being conservative are keys to knowing how to dress to attend a Catholic funeral mass.
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