New Family Questions | St. Mary’s Catholic Church | Joplin MO

Do I have to wear a mask in church?
At this time, we are asking that everyone wear a mask the entire time they are inside the building. Though this might be uncomfortable for some, the safety of everyone at St. Mary’s is our top priority.
When is reconciliation available?

Reconciliation is currently available from 3-4 p.m. on Saturdays or by appointment by calling the church office. Please call the church office at (417) 623-3333 to schedule.  The Advent Penance Service for 2020 will be Wednesday Dec 9 from 6:30-7:30pm, please see the bulletin for details.

Where should I park?

St. Mary’s has parking available off of 32nd Street as well as off of Central City Road.

Where do my children go?
St. Mary’s welcomes all “wiggly worshippers” at Mass. During the school year, St. Mary’s offers a Children’s Liturgy of the Word, typically on the second Sunday of the month, during Mass. This is for all kids, pre-K through 2nd grade. Check out our calendar for the next Mass time.


*At this time, Children’s Liturgy of the Word is not occurring. Please check back for when it will return.

How do my children receive sacraments?
In addition to Children’s Liturgy of the Word, St. Mary’s has Parish School of Religion (PSR) for students that don’t attend St. Mary’s Catholic Elementary School so those children can receive the sacraments. We also have a Youth Group for our Middle School and High School students who are planning on making their Confirmation.
How do I register as a member at St. Mary’s?

St. Mary’s welcomes all new members. You may register online through this link, or registration forms are available at the parish office or welcome desk.  Please fill it out to the best of your ability,  also contact our office at (417) 623-3333.

How do I become Catholic?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a program of instruction, prayer and ritual celebrations for persons interested in the Catholic Church. The program is designed primarily for unbaptized persons and baptized non-Catholics; however, adult Catholics who have not yet received first Eucharist or confirmation are also welcome. If interested in the RCIA program at St. Mary’s, please contact the church office at (417) 623-3333.
I’m not Catholic... so, how do I know when to sit, stand and kneel?
The flow of our worship time together, called the Mass, is located in the hymnal at #227.  It is common for Catholics to change postures during the Mass. If in doubt, watch for the changes in those around you at Mass.
I’m not Catholic... is it okay for me to participate in communion?
Participating in the Mass through praying and singing together are ways to be actively involved in the Mass. If you would like to participate in communion, but are not Catholic, that is great; simply cross your hands over your upper body which signals to the Communion Ministers that you wish to receive a blessing only. Unfortunately, if you are not Catholic, our official Catholic Church teaching on receiving Communion is for Catholics only. 

If you find yourself attending St. Mary’s regularly, and are interested in joining the Catholic way of life, we encourage you to investigate the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) process, which prepares you for becoming a Catholic.