What happened to our Mass?

Here is a link to a local Catholic newspaper article on bringing reverence back to Mass. Interesting take on things. A Cincinnati mother wrote a commentary on how much reverence there used to be during Mass as a child and the lack thereof found today. I have been told my children are well behaved during Mass despite the fact both of my boys are autistic. A few key points of our rules include, no jeans, no toys, no snacks. I admit that I am appalled at the parents that allow the children to wear jeans, tight/revealing clothing, sport/athletic apparel and tee shirts to Mass. The boys wear slacks and non-athletic shoes and my daughter wears a dress or a skirt usually. This isn't the answer to behavior issues but if your children dress "casual" that is probably how they will act. The only instance a priest ever spoke about inappropriate attire at Mass was when we lived in Buffalo, NY. He matter-of-factly stated it was getting warm and did not want to see bare shoulders, shorts or sleeveless clothing during Mass. I was surprised but respected him greatly for saying what needed to be said.

I also do not like when people talk as they are leaving Mass. Let me clarify...in the pews. Jesus is still there and present, take it outside. I don't allow my children to talk until they are out in the narthex(and then quietly). I think another pet peeve would be holding hands during the Our Father(or worse, the Orans posture). Not only an abuse but irreverent in my opinion. The same with turning the sign of peace into a faux-family reunion. We have people that wave or go across aisles and pews to shake hands locally.

I have obviously gone off on a tangent but I think I've had this bottled up so long it's making me both windy and goofy. That and I grew up with peace and hugging so I shudder when I have reminders of the Mass of my youth.