By Bob White
Special to the Herald
As an addendum to the weekly lessons earlier this year on the Mass, part of the national eucharistic revival, Capuchin Franciscan Father Michel Dalton, pastor of Holy Trinity, Kuliouou, added a session on “church etiquette.” To make the instruction stick in our memories, he gave it the acronym A.A.R.P.
The first “A” addresses the importance of arriving on time for Mass. In other words, be in church before the priest proceeds to the altar. Jesus is waiting to see us. We should be on time.
The second “A” deals with proper attire. Beach clothes and shorts are not appropriate. Also suggested as a Lenten sacrifice that men wear long pants rather than cargo shorts.
“R” is for reverence. Holy Trinity parishioners are very gregarious and friendly. They enjoy greeting each other before Mass and exchanging pleasantries. However, when Mass begins the focus is the altar and listening attentively to the readings and the homily. The Consecration is our special time to acknowledge the presence of God and savor our closeness to him.
The final letter “P” stands for parting. We should not leave before the priest does or be a door dasher after Communion. The final blessing and the priest proceeding to the church entry is the end of the Mass. However, it is also nice to acknowledge the hard work of the choir and listen to the recessional hymn.
Following these reminders will assure that Holy Trinity parishioners will be in good standing with A.A.R.P.
