Summer activities and vacations can make getting to Mass each week seem like a juggling act. Harder still is finding the time to dress properly and prepare as we would like. But approaching all aspects of the Eucharist carefully can deepen our Communion with Christ. What we wear can help.

Make it feel special. If you were invited to a friend's house for an evening, you would wear something nice to honor your friend. Sunday Mass is a special time for you and God. Wearing good clothes makes it feel special.

Send a message. Mass is also a communal celebration. When you look nice in church, you send the message to your Catholic brothers and sisters that you value your time together in God's house.

Use this guideline. When deciding what to wear to church, think about this : If it is something you would wear to a picnic, to play a sport, or to clean out the garage, don't wear it to church - even during the summer.