Too Loud in Mass?

Q - A few weeks ago at Mass I sat in front of a woman who was very loud. It wasn't that she was talking to others, but she was almost yelling the responses of the congregation during Mass. I almost turned around and said something to her, because it was so distracting, but thought better of it. What do you think I should have done, if anything?


A - Thanks for the question. I think all of us have experienced such distractions from others in Mass. There can be a number of reasons that someone is too loud during the congregation's parts in the Mass:

• they don't know how loud they are
• they want others to notice them
• they are very zealous about the faith
• they are naturally very loud

No matter the reason, they can be a distraction for others. For your part, I think it is best not to do anything, but rather, I would offer it up as a sacrifice. We need to set a good example and shushing people or giving them angry looks will not draw them closer to God.

Furthermore, we need to learn that we cannot control other people's actions, but we can control how we react to them. I believe it is best to offer up prayers for those people who distract and annoy us.

Not to those who are very loud in Mass - please realize that you can cause a distraction for others and that it is better to keep your volume on an average level rather than loud. I promise God can still hear you.

I hope this helps.

FURTHER READING:
***20 Tips for Proper Etiquette In Mass
***How To Get More Out of Mass? 
***Talking in Church. What Should I Do About It?