What To Learn When Selecting 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.
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.
In this particular Catholic service, men should not keep their hats on upon entering the building. Women, on the other hand, are expected to have some type of covering on their heads. Some parishes and churches realize that this may not be common knowledge and will often provide veils or scarves for those ladies who do not have one of their own.
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.
