I’m not Catholic, how do I know when to sit, stand and kneel?

There’s no need to be self-conscious about the postures and responses used during worship. Most visitors just follow the lead of our parishioners. However, we do have worship aids located in each pew that provide you with the order of the mass, the postures, and the words of each prayer. If you don't see a worship aid in your pew, ask an usher, and they will be happy to bring you one.

I’m not Catholic, is it okay for me to participate in communion?

Communion, or The Eucharist, is the most intimate expression of our faith. Catholics believe that the host is literally the body of Christ, transformed from bread by the priest presiding over the service. Most evangelicals think of Communion as symbolic, so it makes sense that they are not as strict about having the right relationship with it as Catholics and Orthodox Christians who believe it is a sacrament and the true presence of Christ. So, if you are not Catholic, we ask that you not receive communion. However, those not receiving the Body of Christ and Precious blood are invited to come forward with their hands crossed over their chests for a special blessing.

Am I expected to put money into the offering?

If you are visiting with us, we don't expect you to put money into the offering, and you are welcome to just let it pass you by. If you consider our parish your church home, we'd love for you to prayerfully consider giving to our parish on a weekly basis. You can give by check or cash during the service, or you can sign up for online giving here. 

Allergies
We offer low-gluten hosts (.001 or 37 micrograms) if you have wheat-related allergies or intolerances. These special hosts are available at North Lake and Monches. If you would like to receive a low-gluten host, please position yourself in the priest’s Communion line. Only his Communion plate will hold low-gluten hosts.  When you reach the priest, after bowing, point at the special container or say to the priest “gluten free.” The priest will hold out the communion plate and allow you to take the host yourself. This alleviates concerns about cross contamination.

Accessibility
The St. Teresa of Calcutta church in North Lake is accessible to those who use wheelchairs or walkers, or have other mobility challenges. (Our worship space in Monches is not accessible.) There is a ramp at the north side of the church; the eastern entrance to the church is flat. Many spaces near that particular entrance are reserved for “handicap parking.”

There are spaces near the eastern entrance and at the back of church allowing you and your caregiver to sit together. There is also a ramp that leads to the sanctuary area, should you want to participate in ministry during Mass.

The Parish Center is also accessible from the east, just off the parking lot.

Facilities
There are wheelchair-accessible bathrooms located at the back of the North Lake church, just off the Gathering Space. 

There are special headphones available for use which are linked directly to our sound system; they make hearing Mass much easier and enjoyable. The units are kept in the sacristy and can be retrieved from there before any Mass or other church event.