When You Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear?

If this is your first time at St. Bernard's, we want you to feel comfortable. There is no dress code in the Catholic Church which has spanned two millennia and countless cultures and civilizations. It is not not uncommon to see people wearing sandals, shorts, and a shirt. Others prefer to wear the best thing is that they have in their closet. However, we do request that shorts be of a reasonable length (no “short-shorts”) and that in general, clothing be respectful and mindful of the worship environment.

How do I get to St. Bernard's Catholic Church?

Our parish is located at 105 Knight Ave N Thief River Falls, MN 56701. Get Directions.

Where should I park and enter the Church?

For weekend Masses there is street parking on all sides of the block, as well as in the municipal lot across 2nd St. from the Church. Please enter the church through either the west ramp accessible entrance (Duluth Ave.) or the northeast entrance (Knight Ave. and 2nd St.)

For weekday Masses, there is street parking on 2nd St. as well as in the municipal lot across 2nd St. from the Church.

Where do my children go?

On Sunday mornings, children ages 3 to 8 are welcome to attend the children's liturgy. The children's liturgy is an opportunity for younger children to engage with the readings of the day on a level suitable for them while older children and adults listen to the readings and the sermon. After the opening prayer, the children's liturgy leader will walk down the main aisle to the back to meet the children and go to one of the school classrooms. Children will return after the sermon.

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, on the screens on either side of the Sanctuary, there are instructions, that indicate hymn numbers, Mass parts, and postures.

I’m not Catholic, is it okay for me to participate in communion?

Holy Communion, or the Eucharist, is the source and summit of the Catholic faith. We believe that the bread and wine consecrated by the priest is transformed by the Holy Spirit into the actual Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. This is where we differ from many forms of Protestant Christianity that hold to a symbolic view of communion. In accordance with Scripture and Tradition, reception of Holy Communion is restricted to Baptized Catholics who are properly disposed to receive. Members of the Eastern Orthodox Churches may receive in certain circumstances in accord with canon law.

Those not receiving Holy Communion (Catholic and non-Catholic alike) are invited to either come forward with their hands crossed over their chests for a special blessing or remain in their pew.

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 Mass, but the best way to give regularly is through online giving. You can sign-up here.

I have a hearing problem, is there any special assistance?

Hearing devices are available during Mass. Speak to any member of the hospitality team.