Thank you for your interest in our parish. Whether you’re just visiting us for a brief time, looking for a new parish home, are returning to the practice of your Catholic faith or are interested in finding out more about the Catholic Church, we’re happy to have you here.
A parish is a community of believers and a spiritual family that is supportive and loving. It can be a place to grow spiritually, to put your faith in action, and to use our gifts of time and talent as disciples of Christ. We look forward to answering any questions you may have. In the meantime, please look through the resources we’ve made available on these pages:
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 RECONCILIATION AVAILABLE?
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered on Wednesdays from 5:30pm-6:30pm, Fridays from 12:00pm-1:00pm, and Saturdays from 3:30pm-4:30pm. Contact the parish office (989) 732-5448 for other times by appointment.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
We want you to feel comfortable. After all, we are thrilled that you're joining us and want you to be more focused on the service than what you're wearing. In the summertime, it's not uncommon to see people wearing sandals, shorts, and a shirt. Others prefer to still put on their "Sunday best," and that's fine too! However, we do request that shorts be of a conservative length (no “short-shorts”) and that in general, clothing be respectable and conservative.
HOW DO I GET TO THE CHURCH?
Our Parish is located at:
606 N Ohio Ave
Gaylord MI 49735
WHERE SHOULD I PARK?
We have two main parking lots on the north and east sides of the campus. We also have parking along the road on North Ohio Ave and surround the south side of the church. The main church entrance is on the north side of the church. You may park in any available spot. There is no reserved parking except for the ample handicapped-accessible spots. We ask that you never park in fire lines or on the grass.
WHERE DO MY CHILDREN GO?
We believe it is important for children of all ages to attend mass with their families. On some Sundays we offer Children's Liturgy of the Word where children leave Mass for a short period of time to learn about the readings and do an activity with a trained leader of our Children's Liturgy team. They meet in the Cathedral Meeting rooms and go back to their parents during the presentation of the gifts.
I’M NOT CATHOLIC ... SO, HOW DO I KNOW WHEN TO SIT, STAND AND KNEEL?
There’s no need to be self-conscious about the postures and responses used during worship. Most visitors just follow the lead of our parishioners. However, we do have worship aids located in the gathering space that provide you with the order of the mass, the postures, and the words to each prayer. If you can't find a worship aid, ask an usher, and they will be happy to bring you one.
I'M NOT CATHOLIC ... IS IT OK FOR ME TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNION?
Communion, or The Eucharist, is the most intimate expression of our faith. Catholics believe that the host is literally the body of Christ, transformed from bread by the priest presiding over the service. Most evangelicals think of Communion as symbolic, so it makes sense that they are not as strict about having the right relationship to it as Catholics and Orthodox Christians who believe it is a sacrament and the true presence of Christ. So, if you are not Catholic, we ask that you not receive communion. However, those not receiving the Body of Christ and Precious blood are invited to come forward with their hands crossed over their chests for a special blessing.
AM I EXPECTED TO PUT MONEY IN THE OFFERING?
If you are visiting with us, we don't expect you to put money in the offering, and you are welcome to just let it pass you by. If you consider our parish your church home, we'd love for you to prayerfully consider giving on a weekly basis. You can give by check or cash during the service, or you can sign up for online giving here.
I HAVE A HEARING PROBLEM. IS THERE ANY SPECIAL ASSISTANCE?
Yes! For those who are hearing impaired, we have special hearing devices that you can wear that will allow you to control the volume. If you think this would be beneficial to you, please ask one of the ushers located at the back of the church to provide you with a headset.