9 Things To Avoid Doing in Church
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Church is a sanctuary, a place of peace, reflection, and reverence, and it’s important to approach the experience with respect. Churches are sacred spaces where community comes together, and your behavior can significantly impact the atmosphere for everyone around you. To help maintain the sanctity of this experience, here are things you should never do in church.
Arrive Late
Arriving late disrupts the flow of the service and can cause unnecessary discomfort for others. Aim to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early, allowing you to settle in and reflect before the service begins. This also prevents you from walking in and disrupting the service after it has started.
Use Your Phone
We all know the temptation of the digital world, but pulling out your phone during a church service is a major distraction. Keep your phone silent and tucked away. This shows respect for the service and those around you, ensuring that your focus remains on the worship experience.
Engage in Conversations During Service
Respect the sacred silence during the service. Conversations, even whispered ones, can be disruptive. Wait for moments when dialogue is appropriate, like after the service or during designated discussion times. Even the softest conversations can be distracting in a setting where quiet reflection is expected.
Dress Inappropriately
Many churches don’t enforce strict dress codes, but it’s important to remember that church is a place for reverence. Avoid attire that is too casual or revealing, such as miniskirts, graphic tees, or clothing with provocative messages. Opt for a neat, modest, and respectful appearance to honor the space and the service.
Chew Gum or Snacks
Gum chewing is often loud and distracting, especially when it’s smacked. Moreover, it can detract from the reverence of the occasion. Eating snacks or food in church, aside from specific allowances for children, is inappropriate. Focus on the service, and save your snacks for after.
Keep Your Hat On
In many cultures, it’s customary to remove your hat when entering a sacred space. This gesture shows respect and aligns with the overall decorum of church etiquette. If you’re wearing a hat, remove it before you enter, and remember that church is a space of humility and reverence.
Engage in Public Displays of Affection (PDA)
Showing affection for a partner is natural, but the church is not the appropriate place for PDA. Church is a time for reflection and worship, and intimate gestures like kissing or hugging can be distracting. Hand-holding is generally acceptable, but avoid anything more intimate that could disrupt the sanctity of the experience.
Wear Bright Lipstick or Excessive Makeup
Makeup is perfectly fine for most churchgoers, but bright lipstick or heavy makeup can leave unwanted marks on the chalice during communion. To avoid mishaps or distractions, opt for a more natural look and consider smudge-proof makeup if you plan to wear lipstick.
Leave the Service Early
If there’s no emergency, stay for the entire service. Walking out early can distract the congregation and disrupt the flow of worship. If you must leave early, do so discreetly and quietly to avoid drawing attention.
