Back to: Italy Training
Demographics
- The major religion in Italy is Christianity, specifically the Catholic Church
General Etiquette for Visiting Places of Worship
- Many of the best sights are cathedrals, basilicas, or other edifices considered holy
- Remember that many of these sacred sites are also living quarters for monks and nuns
- Be aware and considerate of those who are praying
- Speak quietly
- Your phone should be switched to silent upon entering any grounds of worship
- Don’t use your phone (texting or talking)
- Don’t point with your fingers or touch statues
- Don’t have inappropriate conversations
- Don’t chew gum
- Don’t walk in front of others praying
- Don’t walk across or in front of statues or other holy items
- Don’t eat (have your picnic elsewhere!)
Photography — Flash or Otherwise
- Many cathedrals don’t allow flash photography and some don’t allow any type of pictures or videos
- Look around for signs and directions before
- Always ask a guard or official if in doubt
Proper Dress
- Dress to visit a cathedral can be casual
- Always remove your hat when entering a cathedral
- Regardless of gender, don’t wear revealing clothing. You should cover your
– Shoulders
– Legs above the knee
– Stomach/midriff
Worship Etiquette
- You may pray or worship at sacred sites
- Be genuine and never mock
Lighting Candles
- Typically worshippers light them when entering the cathedral
- Worshippers light them as they pray, making an offering to accompany their prayers
- There are certain times, when candles should not be lit (usually during the service); ask a church usher if in doubt
Venerating (kissing) icons
- It is traditional for worshipers to venerate (kiss) the icons located in the narthex
- You don’t have to do this
- If you do venerate an icon, remember it is improper to kiss an icon on the face
- You should blot any lipstick beforehand
During a Service
- Dress appropriately
- For men, wear a suit and tie or a sports jackets and slacks with a tie
- For women, have your shoulders covered, and dresses/skirts should be knee length or longer
- Arrive at the church before the service starts
- During the service, there are some moments when no one should be moving around
- One basic rule: whenever the priest faces the people or is outside the altar on the solea, either censing or blessing, everyone should stand wherever they are
- Refrain from chewing gum or using a cell phone/camera during a service
- Refrain from slouching or crossing your legs
- If you choose to receive the Holy Communion, you should eat it carefully so no crumbs fall
- Don’t leave the church before dismissal