Father Hathaway’s Column — July 13, 2025
MODESTY IN A SACRED PLACE
“Father, it’s summer and it’s HOT outside! Does it really matter what I wear to Mass? Isn’t God just glad I’m here?” Yes, God IS glad you’re here. And, yes, it does matter how you dress. This applies to men and women, boys and girls. What is acceptable for recreational wear is not always appropriate for the House of God, where we truly encounter and receive Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist at Mass. Our historic Basilica of Saint Mary is fully air- conditioned, so everyone can be comfortable while dressed appropriately, modestly and respectfully for sacred worship.
Why? Out of respect and reverence for God, really and truly present in the church. “Give to the LORD the glory due His Name! Enter His presence; worship the LORD in holy attire” (1 Chron 16:29). To avoid being a distraction, temptation or stumbling block to those around us. “The dress of the body should not discredit the good of the soul” (Saint Cyprian of Carthage).
The Catechism of the Catholic Church advises: “To prepare for worthy reception of [Holy Communion]…. bodily demeanor (gestures, clothing) ought to convey the respect, solemnity and joy of this moment when Christ becomes our guest” #1387. “Modesty is decency. It inspires one’s choice of clothing…. It is discreet” #2522. And, “Teaching modesty to children and adolescents means awakening in them respect for the human person” #2524.
Dress codes are the norm at the Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome, other churches in Italy and in many religious sites throughout the Holy Land. Signs boldly inform visitors that both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees. No bare backs or midriffs! Doorkeepers will hand you a cover-up garment if they think your attire is inappropriate. (Just try to visit the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalen wearing a short skirt, shorts or sleeveless top!) We don’t do that at the Basilica, of course, but the reminder is clear: When you enter a holy place, dress with reverence and humility.
A few additional reminders for summer and throughout the year:
- Arrive on time or, better yet, a bit early to quietly, prayerfully prepare to receive Our Lord. If you arrive after Mass has started, wait for an appropriate break in the liturgy (such as after the Responsorial Psalm or Alleluia) before finding a seat by entering from a side aisle.
- Turn off or mute all cell phones, etc., to avoid interrupting the solemnity of the Mass.
- Before and after Mass, be mindful and
- Food and beverages are never permitted in the Basilica. Exceptions, of course, are water or a bottle for baby. But, please, no cups of coffee or soda, cookies, crackers, Cheerios (!) or other crunchy, crumbly foods.
Thank you for helping keep the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass reverent, peaceful and meaningful. And have a great summer!