I'm New Here

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

When are the Weekly and Weekend services?
The Weekend Masses take place on:

Saturday: 4PM English, St. Alexander, 5PM Spanish, St. Helen

Sunday:  8:30AM & 10:30AM English, St. Helen, 8:30AM & 11:30AM Spanish, St. Alexander


Weekday Masses

Monday & Tuesday: 8:15AM English, St. Helen

Wednesday, Thursday & Friday: 8:15AM English, St. Alexander

Wednesday, 6:30PM Spanish, St. Helen

Children are in attendance at the Tuesday & Wednesday Masses when school is in session.


When is confession?

Saturday: 2:30-3:30PM Bilingual, St. Alexander


What should I wear?

We encourage attire that balances reverence, neatness, and modesty, ensuring our focus remains entirely on worship and fellowship.

What is Appropriate? For most of our services, business casual or "Sunday best" is an excellent benchmark. Here are a few practical examples of what that looks like:

  • For Men: A collared shirt (button-down or polo), khakis, slacks, or neat dress pants. A blazer, sweater, or suit is always welcome but never mandatory.
  • For Women: A modest dress or skirt (preferably knee-length or longer), a nice blouse, or tailored dress pants paired with a sweater or cardigan.
  • Footwear: Clean, comfortable shoes such as loafers, dress flats, heels, sandals or boots.
  • For Children: Comfortable, clean clothing that allows them to participate in Sunday school and activities while remaining presentable.


Where are your churches located:
St. Alexander Parish, 1568 W. Holt Avenue

St. Helen Parish, 3329 S. 10th Street


Where should I park?

There are parking lots at both locations and parking on the street. There is also an elevator at the St. Helen Church location.


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. However, we do have worship aids located in each pew that provide you with the order of the mass, the postures, and the words of 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 with 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 into the offering?

If you are visiting with us, we don't expect you to put money into 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. 


Ministries of St. John Paul II Parish

Discover Your Place: An Invitation to Connect, Grow, and Serve

Have you ever wondered where you truly fit into the story of our church? It is incredibly easy to sit in the pews week after week and view church as a place we simply attend, rather than a community we actively build together. But the truth is, our community is not complete without the unique gifts, passions, and perspectives that only you can bring.



Whether you are a lifelong member or walking through our doors for the very first time, you are invited to join our ministries. Serving is not about being perfect, and it is certainly not about having a flawless resume. It is about a willingness to show up, connect with others, and put love into action.




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REGISTER WITH St. John Paul II

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.

Register