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I'm New

When you visit
Visiting a new church can be intimidating: What should I wear? Where do I park? Where do my kids go?

We understand the many thoughts that can come from visiting a new church, so we want you to feel completely comfortable when you visit. Below are some frequently asked questions. If you have any additional questions, don't hesitate to contact us or talk with an usher when you visit.


When is confession available?
Tuesday at 8:30 am, Thursday at 4:00 pm, and Saturday from 4:00 - 4:45 p.m., or by appointment


What should I wear?
If Jesus invites you into His home for dinner, how will you dress?  That is how to determine what you "should" wear because that is exactly what is happening!  When you enter the church, you are entering a sacred place and, while in God's house, you are in His very presence, along with that of Jesus, His Mother, St. Joseph, and all of the angels and saints!  So, when you dress to come to Mass, do so remembering Who it is you are going to visit and at Whose table you are going to eat.  Whether it be spring, summer, winter, or fall, dress appropriately.......dress for Our Lord.  Attire should be respectable and conservative. 


How do I get to St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church?
Our Church is located at 68 Canal Rd. Orleans, MA 02653. Here is a map.


Where should I park?
Ample parking is available on both sides of the church and across the street in our Thrift Shop parking lot.


Where do my children go?
Your children should accompany you to Mass.  After all, Jesus said, "Let the children come to me." 

Some parents with young children think it best to sit in the back of the church so as not to disturb others.  This can, however, give children the feeling that it's 'okay to play'.  Try sitting with your children in the first pew and, when you can do so discreetly, direct your child's attention to what the priest is doing on the altar.  Children are inquisitive and you may find that they pay better attention to what is happening than you ever thought they would.


I’m not Catholic ... so, how do I know when to sit, stand and kneel?
Do as those around you do.  If you sit when others stand or rise to stand when others kneel, correct yourself and, most importantly, do not feel embarrassed.  We all make mistakes and, chances are, the people around you won't even notice.


I’m not Catholic ... is it okay for me to participate in Communion?
As Catholics, we believe that, once consecrated, the bread and wine become the body and blood of Jesus.  You, therefore, cannot receive Communion if you are not Catholic. However, you may approach the altar when Communion is being distributed.  As you come to the front of the line, cross your arms over your chest and the priest will give you a blessing.


Am I expected to put money in the offering?
If you are visiting with us, you do not have to put money in the offering.  If you choose to, however, we welcome and are most grateful for your generosity and kindness.  If you consider our parish your church home, we hope you will prayerfully consider giving to our parish on a weekly basis. You can give by check or cash during the Mass, or you can sign up for online giving here