Dear Missionary Disciples of Jesus Christ,
 
I've heard this before: "God doesn't care

what I wear as long as I'm there." (I edited

the comment to make it rhyme, just for fun.)

I know we are to keep the second commandment, which is "You shall not take the name of the LORD, your God, in vain." If reverence for God's name is essential, then indeed reverence for being in His presence (i.e., the Eucharist) would undoubtedly be even more critical.

Does my clothing reflect my thoughts and feelings about a specific endeavor or place? I may wear a suit, tie, or tuxedo when attending a formal event. When I attend a funeral or wedding, I usually wear nicer clothes. Why do I do that? If I dress for Mass as if I am going to a picnic, does that mean I equate the two events? Do I dress up for events and places that are more important?

Is there anything more important than the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, the God event of love par excellence, the Sacred Liturgy?

What would I wear to the Last Supper, the crucifixion, the Resurrection?
Would it reflect what I think or feel about the event?

Is what I wear not only a reverence for God but also a reflection of how I reverence my brothers and sisters in Christ? You may say if they object, that's their problem but is that a loving attitude? I can't answer these questions for you, but I hope you ask them of yourself.

Peace,

Father Maassen (reprinted and edited)