I'm New

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 Our Lady of Perpetual Help?

Our parish is located at 342 S Chillicothe Rd, Aurora, OH 44202. Here is a map.

Where should I park?

Parking is on-site.

Where do my children go?

Your children belong here! We love having your children with us at Mass and look forward to seeing them at church. As Mark states in his Gospel:

"And people were bringing children to him that he might touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this he became indignant and said to them, ‘Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.’ Then he embraced them and blessed them, placing his hands on them” (Mark 10:13-16)

We understand at times that children may not fully be focused during Mass, so we offer these options to help you during this time:

• Children's books focused on the liturgy, Catholic faith, and liturgical season/holidays
• Sensory-friendly fidget items
• Pew Pages (coloring sheets that also show the parts of the Mass)
• Children's Liturgy of the Word (CLOW) - offered during the school year (see more information here)

For more assistance, please see an usher or the sacristan.

I’m not Catholic, 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. If you're still unsure, please see an usher before Mass to help guide you.

I’m not Catholic, is it okay 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 do, we thank you for your contribution! If you consider our parish your church home, we'd love for you to prayerfully consider giving to our parish on a weekly basis. You can give by check or cash during the service, or you can sign up for online giving here. 

I still have questions!

For more help, please fill out our form and we'll get back to you!