When You Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

When are services?

You can find our complete Mass Schedule here: Mass Schedule

When is confession?

You can find our Confession Schedule on our Mass Schedule page here: Mass Schedule

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 St. Bernard Catholic Church?

Our parish is located at 910 Lagonda Avenue, Springfield, here is a map: Contact Us

Where should I park?

There is ample parking as you enter the lot off of Lagonda or Columbia Avenues.
There is a volunteer available with a golf cart to assist those unable to walk the ramp or steps

Where do my children go?

We welcome your children to stay with you for our liturgies.  There is space in the vestibule (the back of church) for you to take your child if you feel you need some privacy.

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 the our parishioners. However, we do have worship aids located in each pew that provide you with the order of the mass, the postures, and the words to each prayer. If you don't see a worship aid in your pew, ask an usher, and they will be happy to bring you one.

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 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 have a hearing problem, is there any special assistance?

We have hearing devices available and may be obtained by the organ area, in the front right side of church.

Register with St. Bernard

New to the area or just visiting?

We would love to welcome you to our church. Join us for a Mass, learn more about our parish, and register with our church at the link below.