A Catholic writer suggests non-catholic ways to become a better Catholic.
This summer many people will venture out and about on vacations. Some will enjoy lavish jaunts to the far east or wherever the "it" people jet to. Others will enjoy more traditional vacations to camp sites, amusement parks or grandmother's home on the lake/ocean/river. Still others won't get those vacations, instead, you'll try to take the kids on whatever two days you may have off and do everything possible.
Whatever your choice, let me offer one suggestion, especially if you are away from home. Often if traveling a long way, a Catholic church is not available for Mass, especially if you travel to an area that is not well-populated. Take this opportunity to attend a different religious ceremony. Whether it's something similar, such as Greek Orthodox, or something completely different, Temple for example, you can gain a great deal of understanding and new found respect for both your religion and someone elses.
If you do plan to venture into unchartered territory, however, do be mindful of practices and traditions. For example, what kind of clothes do most women and men wear to Temple? What do Pentacostals wear to services? A call to the pastor or Rabbi can avoid embarrassing situations for you and help you to not unintentionally insult the members of the congregation.
Whether the service is conducted in a language you understand or not, you can gain a great deal by just being fully present in respectful silence.
It's a great reminder of all we have in common.
