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What You Should Know When Choosing 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.
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.
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.
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.
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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