What You Should Know When Deciding Dress For Funeral Mass
Catholic rites for the dead are quite formal and filled with ritualistic prayers and recitations. For those who are not part of this religion, there may be some confusion as to how they should behave when attending these services. There are some general guidelines about how one should dress when going to a funeral mass.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
