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What To Know When Determining Funeral Mass Clothing Options
There are several formalities such as recitations and ritualistic prayers included in traditional Catholic death services. These may seem somewhat confusing to one who has little, or no knowledge as to how these events are handled. When dressing to attend a funeral mass, one should follow some basic tips and 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.
When attending any religious service, one should take particular care to dress in a respectful way. Casual attire such as denim jeans, shorts and sweat suits are most definitely considered inappropriate for such an occasion. The general rule of thumb is to wear conservative clothing that is suitable for church and business.
Suits with ties, or a nice dress pants and shirt combination in neutral tones are appropriate choices for men. Ladies wearing skirts or dresses should opt for articles which sport hemlines at least long enough to keep the knees covered when sitting or standing. Conservative pantsuits are acceptable but bold patterns, bright colors, deep necklines and bare shoulders are not.
This is not a service where men are allowed to wear hats inside the church. The rules are different for women, who are encouraged to place some type of covering over their heads. As most non-Catholics are likely to be unfamiliar with this practice, many parishes and chapels often offer scarves or veils to ladies who do not have one.
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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