While there is a social dimension, that should not be our main reason for being there. Mass is sacred and sadly there’s too much casualness towards the faith which is why mass etiquette is important.

Karl Erickson

Karl Erickson has called Monmouth, Oregon home since 2016. He lives there with his wife, two young adult children, and a large Newfoundland who goes by Chesterton. A state employee for over two decades, Karl identifies himself primarily in the role of an author and essayist. He’s the writer of two lighthearted children’s books: Toupee Mice and Tristan’s Travels. Both are published by Rafka Press. His wife, Kimberly Erickson is their wonderful illustrator. He is also the writer of a new mystery, The Blood Cries Out. His articles have appeared in a wide variety of publications—from America, The National Catholic Weekly and Seattle Pacific University’s Response to a guest opinion writer for both the Portland Tribune and the Statesman Journal. Karl also enjoys nature and travel photography. You can find out more about him at http://www.karlerickson.com/publications.html

In this episode, we talk to Karl Erickson about why Mass is sacred. He talks about:
-The do’s and don’t at Mass
-Why we need to be reverent?
-15 things we shouldn’t do during Mass
-How we can gently correct people with a casual attitude towards the Church.

Mass Etiquette and Reverence for Church Services

OUR 50th EPISODE

This is our 50th episode. And we’re having a big giveaway at the end of the month with our Christian Book Bundle. For our 50th, we managed to track down Karl Erickson who wrote this comprehensive post on Mass Etiquette.

When I wrote to Karl, he was actually out hiking in the mountains. Lucky him! And he responded right away. Within a day we had the episode recorded and ready. What I heard when I talked to Karl, is his burning zeal to love the Lord and love Him with our very best.

At times, as Catholics we take our faith and the Eucharist for granted and Karl reminded me by teaching mass etiquette, what a great gift we have.

TEACHING MASS ETIQUETTE TO OTHERS

I agree with Karl when he says there needs to be ongoing catechesis of the lay faithful. Whether that is at Pre-Cana or baptism courses, the lay faithful need to be taught and re-taught basic theology of mass etiquette and why we do what we do.

He also recommends Scott Hahn’s book which I’ll list down here.

My favorite part of our 50th podcast is where Karl says we have to remember that every person is someone whom Jesus died for. We need to remember that in every person we meet everyday. And often I forget that, especially at the end of a frustrating day, or when you’re on the crowded subway or just having a bad day. I forget that! And his statement is so profound. If only I could remember that, I wouldn’t be half as mean as I sometimes am.

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ANNIVERSARY GIVEAWAY

As mentioned, for our 50th episode anniversary we’re giving away a free Christian Book Bundle. One of the books is Charles book, the Beauty of the Mass. For our anniversary event, we’ll announce our celebration plans along with a book giveaway.

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