What to
Expect
Whether you're new to Quincy, new to St. Francis, or new to the Catholic Mass, we're glad you're here. Here's everything you need to feel at home on your first Sunday.
Come as you are
St. Francis is a big, beautiful church, and it can feel like a lot the first time. Don't worry. Just look for anyone wearing an Usher or Greeter pin. They're happy to help you find a seat or answer a question.
Sunday at 7:00, 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.
Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to park and find a seat.
Some dress up, some don't. You'll fit right in.
Even the noisy ones. Our parish loves children.
Parking and entrances
St. Francis Solanus Church is at 1721 College Avenue, across the street from the school.
Directions → (opens in new tab)- North lotEnter the north lot from Elm Street. Accessible parking is in the section nearest the drive-through drop-off at the north entrance.
- School lotsUse the school parking lots on either side of 17th Street, just west of the school.
- Street parkingPark on the street anywhere it's available around the church.
- Accessible entranceThe drive-through drop-off at the north entrance is the accessible entrance for the church and the Parish Hall. A wheelchair is usually available just inside.
The Mass, step by step
The Mass follows the same pattern every time, all over the world. You'll find the words and responses in the missal in the pew. When in doubt, follow the people around you to stand, sit, or kneel. It's always fine to simply sit and pray.
We gather
A hymn as the priest processes in, the Sign of the Cross, a prayer asking God's mercy, and on most Sundays, the Gloria.
We listen
Readings from the Old Testament, a Psalm, and the New Testament, then the Gospel (everyone stands) and the homily. We profess our faith in the Creed and pray for the world.
We give thanks
The gifts of bread and wine are brought forward. In the Eucharistic Prayer, they become the Body and Blood of Christ. We pray the Our Father and share a sign of peace, then receive Communion.
We go forth
A final blessing and dismissal sends us out to live what we've celebrated. Stay for the closing hymn, then say hello on your way out.
Who receives Communion?
Catholics believe that in Holy Communion we receive Jesus Himself, truly present in the Eucharist. Receiving is a sign of our full unity in the Catholic faith.
If you're not Catholic, you are warmly welcome to come forward with your arms crossed over your chest to receive a blessing, or to remain in the pew and pray. Either is perfectly fine.
USCCB guidelines for receiving Communion → (opens in new tab)- CatholicsCatholics who are prepared, free of serious sin, and have fasted for one hour before Communion are welcome to receive. If you've been away for a while, consider Confession first, or visit our Coming Home page.
- How to receiveYou may receive the Host on the tongue or in the hand. The minister says "The Body of Christ," and you respond "Amen."
- Not Catholic?Come forward with your arms crossed for a blessing, or stay in the pew and pray for the unity of all Christians.
- Low-gluten hostsGet in the Communion line of the main celebrant (the priest), and when it's your turn, simply tell Father of your need.
Children are welcome, even the noisy ones!
Our parish loves children. A few wiggles and happy noises are the sound of a growing parish family, so please don't worry. We're glad you're here.
- Cry roomNeed a break with a fussy baby? The Bride's Room is next to the women's restroom in the Parish Center. You can follow the Mass on a closed-circuit TV, and there are some toys in the cupboard.
- Board booksBorrow a couple of our Catholic-themed board books for your toddler. They're in the parish library in the gathering space at the north entrance.
- Children's LiturgyChildren's Liturgy of the Word is offered at the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass, September through May.
Everyone is welcome here
If you have any questions before your visit, call the Parish Office at (217) 222-2898 and we'll help you plan. Accessibility details
In the north lot off Elm Street, in the section nearest the drive-through drop-off.
The drive-through drop-off is the accessible entrance for the church and Parish Hall. A wheelchair is usually available just inside.
Chairs just inside the north entrance by the organ are reserved for those with special needs. The first pew on the north side also has extra room.
Switch a T-coil hearing aid or cochlear implant to "T." No T-coil? Ask an usher to borrow a receiver.
Get in the main celebrant's Communion line and tell Father when it's your turn.
Look for anyone wearing an Usher or Greeter pin. They're glad to help.
Common questions
Don't see yours? Call the Parish Office, or ask an usher or greeter at Mass.
(217) 222-2898How long is Mass?
About an hour on Sunday. Weekday Masses are shorter, usually around 30 minutes.
What should I wear?
Come as you are. Some people dress up a bit for Sunday Mass, and others come in everyday clothes. You'll fit right in either way.
Do I have to be Catholic to come to Mass?
Not at all. Everyone is welcome at Mass. Just come, pray with us, and join in as much or as little as you're comfortable.
Is there a collection? Do I have to give?
A collection is taken during the Mass. Giving is never expected of guests. Just let the basket pass by. Parishioners can also give online.
What if I don't know when to stand, sit, or kneel?
Follow the people around you. No one is watching or keeping score, and it's perfectly fine to stay seated whenever you need to.
Can I go to Confession before Mass?
Yes. Confession is offered Saturday after the 8:00 a.m. Mass and at 3:00 p.m., and Wednesday at 4:00 p.m., or by appointment. See Mass & Confession.
I'd like to learn more about becoming Catholic. Who do I talk to?
We'd love to talk with you. Learn about OCIA, or send Fr. Arisman a question.
