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Basics To Learn When Selecting 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.
Also known as the Requiem, this is the second of the three traditional Catholic services held when a member of the church dies. The primary purpose is to honor the memory of the deceased, to pray for their soul and to give comfort and care to those who are grieving. This event generally lasts about an hour and a half.
Religious based events require that individuals show respect in the way that they dress. Casual daily wear like blue jeans, sweats, shorts, tees and tanks are inappropriate for this type of occasion. The basic rules of etiquette state that clothing for these services should be conservative and such as one would don for a business meeting or church.
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.
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.
Catholic services have some ritualistic actions that are performed during the proceedings such as the kissing of the priest's hand, statues and icons. Out of respect and courtesy, lipstick should be well blotted beforehand to avoid leaving marks behind. Modesty and conservativeness are the keys to properly dressing for a funeral mass.
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