Mass attire

Question: With COVID-19, face coverings are increasingly turning into style statements. Is it suitable to wear one to Mass that displays Disney animated figures, sports franchises, and rock band emblems? Some churchgoers believe it constitutes a disrespectful violation of sacred decorum, while others do not perceive an issue.

— Vincent J., Sherman Oaks, California

Answer: Displaying slogans, whether on T-shirts, masks, or buttons, is something to be discouraged. Holy Mass is not the occasion to “make an impression” or showcase personal expression. The emphasis is on God and the devotion and reverence owed to him, who is the Lord. Many of these slogans and displays are simply secular, featuring Disney characters, cultural symbols, sports idols, etc. Some are political expressions or support for candidates. However, elevating secular concepts or symbols during the sacred liturgy serves as a distraction and is inappropriate. Introducing political issues and candidates into the liturgy is generally divisive and can alienate some. In church, we aim to focus on what brings us together: faith in the One and Triune God, along with his teachings. Therefore, our attire should be modest, free of excessive display, and dignified.

With all that noted, the majority of individuals arriving in eye-catching T-shirts, masks, buttons, or similar items typically do not intend to be disrespectful or overly casual. Instead, they often illustrate that, in America, we have adopted a very relaxed approach towards what we wear. We seldom put on formal attire. Moreover, a trend of outgoing self-expression through fashion is prevalent nowadays. Frequently, unconventional items are celebrated and viewed as trendy — for instance, jeans that look worn out and feature multiple tears and frayed spots. This dynamic affects the attire selections of attendees at Mass.

What needs to be addressed is the need to instill a fresh perspective that holy Mass and church structures are revered and that this should influence our attire. Modest suits and dresses were common practice up until the 1960s. Some motivation to revert to such an approach must be paired with a heightened awareness of the sanctity and respect of the sacred liturgy. While clergy can remind the congregation, parents and other lay leaders must also contribute to this effort.

Fear of the Lord

Question: What is the reason for the significant emphasis on fear in Scripture? Phrases like “Fear the Lord,” “have fear,” and “know my fear” stand out. If God embodies all love, shouldn’t the attention shift more towards love?

— Michael R., Riverside, California

Answer: The fear that is advised in Scripture is not simply a cowardly fear of retribution (often referred to as servile fear). Instead, it encompasses filial fear (the fear arising from being a son or daughter)—a fear that regards God with reverence and is concerned about offending Him due to His immense goodness and glory. Ideally, we transition from the simple fear of punishment to a fear that is founded in our love for God. The act of contrition states, “I abhor all my sins not only because I dread your rightful punishments but, above all, because they hurt you, my God, who is fully good and worthy of all my affection.”

It is important to recognize that the fear of punishment, although not flawless, is still beneficial and essential. We should never downplay God or arrogantly assume his mercy while continuing to sin. God’s presence is simply not something that can be tolerated by those who remain unrepentant or presumptuous. In this regard, God deserves both respect and fear. We can only hope to stand in his presence and withstand his glory through his grace. By fearing God, whether perfectly or imperfectly, we take Him seriously and become more inclined to obey Him. This represents a significant gift and the foundation of all wisdom.

Msgr. Charles Pope is the pastor of Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian in Washington, D.C., and writes for the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. at blog.adw.org. Send questions to msgrpope@osv.com.