Visitor Information
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Thank you for your interest in Blessed Sacrament Parish. Whether you’re visiting us for a brief time, looking for a new parish home, returning to the practice of your Catholic faith, or attending a funeral, wedding, or other event, you are welcome here!
At Blessed Sacrament Parish, we are more than a building, but we know that practical details are important. The church's main entrances are located on Rowley Avenue. On the lower level of the church is Assembly Hall. The parish offices are located on Hollister Avenue as is the main entrance to Blessed Sacrament School. On the lower level of the school, is our Friary, where Coffee and Donuts is held on weekends, and where funeral lunches also take place.
ACCESSIBILITY
All of our church buildings are accessible. If you need a wheelchair or other assistance, please contact an usher, staff member, or any parishioner and they will be able to provide assistance or direct you to someone who can help.
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Families with Children
Relax! God put the wiggle in children; don’t feel you have to suppress it in God’s house. All are welcome! Sit towards the front where it is easier for your little one(s) to see and hear what’s going on at the altar. They tire of seeing the backs of others’ heads. Quietly explain the parts of the Mass and the actions of the priest, altar servers, lectors, etc. Sing the hymns, pray, and voice the responses.
Children learn liturgical behavior by copying you. If you have to leave Mass with your child(ren), feel free to do so, but please come back. As Jesus said, “Let the children come to me.” Remember that the way we welcome children in church directly affects the way they respond to the Church, to God, and one another. Let them know that they are at home in this house of worship.
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A Non-Catholic in a Catholic Church
Catholic services can be confusing for non-Catholics. Here is some information that might help. All are welcome to join us in prayer. We do ask that our guests and members show respect for God’s house.
POSTURE
Catholics express our prayer in part through posture. We stand, sit, and kneel to help us better participate in Mass. As a guest, you are welcome to follow along with the posture. If you feel uncomfortable kneeling, you are welcome to sit.
HYMNALS
The words of the hymns, prayers, and Scripture readings for the Sunday Masses (and major holy days) can be found in the One in Faith hymnal found in the pews. Hymns are posted digitally on the small display on the left side of the sanctuary. Additionally, we have worship aids handed out by the ushers (or on the small tables in the back of the church) to help guide you through the Mass.
HOLY COMMUNION
We welcome all people to pray together with us. For Catholics, Holy Communion not only nourishes us with the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ, but it is also the source and summit of our faith, our communion, and the profession of our faith as the Body of Christ. Those who do not profess our faith are asked to not receive communion but are encouraged to come up for a blessing. Simply cross your arms in front of your chest with your hands resting on your shoulders, and approach the altar with others in the communion line. When you are in front of the priest, bow to the altar, and he will give you a blessing. Then, you can return to the pew.
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