I'm New Here

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 general, clothing should be respectable and conservative. Others may prefer to put on their "Sunday best," and that's fine. However, we do request that shorts be of a conservative length and that in general, clothing be respectable and conservative.

How do I get to Church of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary?

Our parish is located at 152 Main Street or Route 19 in Brockport, NY. Here is a map.

How do I get to Church of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton?

Our parish is located at 3747 Brick Schoolhouse Road in Hamlin, NY. Here is a map.

Where should I park at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton?

SEAS has their own parking lot with handicapped spaces near the entrance.  SEAS facilities are all on the parking lot level.

Where should I park at Nativity?

Nativity is on the corner of Main Street (Rte. 19) and Monroe Avenue.  Enter our parking lot from Monroe Avenue.  This is where the all-access door is.  Inside the door, there is a lift able to accommodate a stroller, walker or wheelchair and their helpers.  There is also on street parking around the church's perimeter.

Is there anything special for children?

Both Nativity and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton have family areas not in the main church area where Mass can also be heard.  They include a changing station, religious books and a rocking chair for nursing mothers. During the Liturgy of the Word part of Mass, children may go to Children's Liturgy of the Word.  There are also books in the main church area for children to read and follow the Mass.   Fr. Joe or the priest presiding at Mass will invite them up to the altar for a blessing and send them off to go with the leader. The Nativity group will go in the Parish Center, and SEAS group goes in the Chapel.

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 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?

Nativity is Wi-Fi equipped, and the hearing system is tied into that.

Who should I ask if I have questions?

We have ushers/greeters you can ask questions about the facility.  They have name badges on and usually are stationed at the doors.  If you have questions about the Mass or the Catholic faith, you can approach the priest or deacon after Mass to ask your questions.