Visitor Info

Children are a joyful part of our parish family, and we love seeing them at Mass! We know that bringing little ones to church can sometimes be a challenge, but please don’t worry — we understand that the sounds and movement of children are signs of life in our parish.

If your child becomes restless, you’re welcome to step out briefly and return at any time. Greeters or ushers can help you find the best place to sit if you’d like a little extra space.

Nursery Care
Our nursery is available during the 10:00 AM Sunday Mass for children ages 1–4. The nursery is located in the Religious Formation Wing, on the southwest side of the building (the first room next to the doors of the courtyard entrance/across from the gym). Our trained volunteers provide a safe, caring environment so parents can fully participate in Mass knowing their little ones are nearby and happy.

Children’s Liturgy of the Word
During the 10:00 AM Mass, children in Kindergarten through 2nd Grade are invited to join our Children’s Liturgy of the Word. They leave with a catechist after the opening prayer to hear the Sunday readings in language that’s easier for them to understand, and they return to the main assembly before the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Family Seating & Wiggle Space
Families are welcome to sit anywhere, but many parents find it easier to sit closer to the side aisles for a quick step out if needed. We also have a family-friendly area in the Gathering Space, where you can still hear and see the Mass comfortably.

There is plenty of parking available in our main lot. For weekend and daily Masses, please use the Main Entrance (Entrance B) on the north side of the church.

Guests attending parish events, activities, or religious formation sessions may enter through the courtyard entrance on the west side of the building, which leads directly to our activity center and formation wing (Entrance C).

Our parish offices are accessible through Entrance A. Please note that, for security, all doors remain locked outside of scheduled Mass times. During these hours, visitors should enter through Entrance A.

St. Joseph Parish is located on Lafayette Street (also known as Pontiac Trail).

If you’re new to the Catholic Church or haven’t been to Mass in a while, don’t worry — we’re happy you’re here! You’ll notice that the congregation sits, stands, and kneels at various times. These postures reflect our hearts in worship and prayer:

• Standing — a sign of respect and readiness, used for prayers, the Gospel reading, and the Creed.

• Sitting — for listening and reflection, such as during the readings and homily (sermon).

• Kneeling — a posture of reverence and adoration, especially during the Eucharistic Prayer when the bread and wine are consecrated.

The Mass has two main parts, united as one act of worship:

1. The Liturgy of the Word
   We listen to readings from the Bible — one from the Old Testament, a Psalm, a New Testament reading, and the Gospel — followed by a homily that helps us apply God’s Word to our lives.

2. The Liturgy of the Eucharist
   The priest consecrates the bread and wine, which Catholics believe become the Body and Blood of Christ. We then receive Holy Communion as a sign of unity with Christ and His Church.

If you’re not familiar with the order of the Mass, you can follow along in the missalette (book in the pew) or simply observe and join in the prayers and songs as you feel comfortable.

We’re so happy you’re joining us for Mass. Whether you’re Catholic, visiting, or just exploring the faith, you are always welcome here. These simple tips will help you — and those around you — experience a more prayerful and respectful celebration.

️Reverence in the Church

The church is a sacred space. Please silence your phone and take a few quiet moments for prayer before Mass begins.
Try to keep conversation low out of respect for those who are praying.

Dress with Respect

You don’t have to “dress up” to attend Mass — come as you are!
We simply encourage modest, respectful clothing that honors the sacredness of worship and helps everyone stay focused on prayer.

Participation

Mass includes moments of sitting, standing, and kneeling as signs of prayer and reverence.

If you’re not sure what to do, don’t worry — just follow along with the congregation or use the missalette in your pew.

You’re always welcome to join in the prayers and hymns as you feel comfortable.

✝️ Receiving Holy Communion

Please click here to see our page "Receiving Holy Communion" for information on this most sacred Sacrament of the Catholic Church and the biblical references to why we believe this to truly be the Body and Blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Be Courteous

Please avoid eating, drinking, or chewing gum inside the church.

If children become restless, you’re welcome to step into the vestibule or family area — we’re so glad your little ones are part of our parish family!

After Mass

Many parishioners stay for a few quiet moments of thanksgiving or to visit after leaving the sanctuary.

Feel free to introduce yourself — we’d love to meet you!

Learn More About the Catholic Mass

• The Mass Explained – USCCB

• A Walk Through the Mass (Fr. Mike Schmitz)

• Understanding the Eucharist – Word on Fire

Holy Communion is the heart of Catholic worship — the moment when Catholics receive the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.

Jesus Himself gave us this gift and gave clear instructions:

“I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever… Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you.”
— John 6:51, 53

Because of the profound reality of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist, St. Paul reminds us:

“Whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.”
— 1 Corinthians 11:27–28

What this means for visitors:

• If you are not Catholic or are not prepared to receive, please do not receive Communion. This is not to exclude anyone, but to honor what the Eucharist represents: full unity with Christ and His Church.

• You are welcome to come forward for a blessing by crossing your arms over your chest, or you may remain in your seat in prayer. Your presence with us in worship is a blessing too!

We want everyone who comes to feel included and respected, while also preserving the sacredness of this incredible gift.

If you’d like to understand more about what happens during Mass and why we do what we do, these resources are a great place to start:

• The Parts of the Mass – USCCB (U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops)

• Understanding the Mass – Bishop Robert Barron / Word on Fire

• The Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist – USCCB

• Video: A Walk Through the Mass (Fr. Mike Schmitz, Ascension Presents)

Coming to Mass is just the beginning of your journey with us — and we’d love to help you take the next steps in your faith and parish life.

Here are some ways to stay connected and grow:

• Come Back!
  We hope to see you again soon. Our Mass schedule is here so you can plan your next visit.
  
  

• Stay in the Loop
  Sign up for our parish newsletter to receive updates about Masses, events, and ways to get involved.
  
  

• Check Out Events
  We have activities for all ages — from parish socials and volunteer opportunities to Bible studies and family programs. Explore what’s coming up on our events page.
  
  

• Learn More About the Catholic Faith
  If you’re curious about Catholic beliefs, sacraments, or joining the Church, our OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults) program is the perfect next step. Learn more here.
  
  

• Get Involved
  There are countless ways to share your gifts and talents — from volunteering at Mass to joining a ministry or parish group. Find out how you can be part of our community here.

No matter where you are in your journey, you’re welcome here. We look forward to walking with you in faith, community, and prayer.