- Go to Church.
- Read the Scripture before the Mass. The readings are here.
- Pray for the priest, sermon, and listening to it prayerfully.
- Invite the Holy Spirit to speak to you and all those present through the service.
- Arrive a few minutes early - please get there early, not just for a good pew place, but for a moment to collect, quiet, and pray for yourself before you pray with everyone else.
- Turn off the phone. Do not text, email, surf, or anything with your phone. Only exception: pray apps like Magnificat or Divine Office
- Take notes from the homily and mass, if not during than after the service. A note card and pen are your welcome companions for worship time. You will hear words, write down those words.
- After the service, discuss with family and friends your takeaway.
- If possible, listen to a homily via podcast on the day's readings. Recommendation: Word on Fire Ministry.
- Do not compare your priest to your favorite famous priest.
- Do not come to church as a critic seeking fault with the litrugy, homily, priest, or congregation. Grace is everywhere, don't close the door.
- Respond generously with whatever the Holy Spirit asks of you. Because the Holy Spirit will always move upon you.
Bonus: Pray a Hail Mary and the end of the Mass to accept the Word of God with an unconditional Yes.