[Regina]

We applaud someone or other at every Mass in my parish...it is very disturbing to me. At one first Friday Mass I attended, the pastor invited the elementary school cheerleading squad up onto the alter so they could receive a "round of applause" for winning a recent cheerleading competition. I wish I were kidding!!! Also, the congregation often applauds on Sunday for the "performance" of the choir. No one has tried to explain to the parishoners the music is worship, NOT performance and should never be applauded.

[Bigg Red]

...congregation often applauds on Sunday for the "performance" ...

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In my former parish, the priests regularly led the congregation in applauding a woman who gave solo gospel- type renditions of songs and hymns. Very disturbing, but not the most disturbing thing that happened there.

Applauding in church on Good Friday! Oh, that must have been awful for you. I often find myself during Mass asking for forgiveness for the resentment I feel regarding what goes on, for example, some congregants' extending and raising of the arms during responses such as "And also with you". I know that this practice is not a sacrilege, but it is to me so inappropriate and seems like a way to draw attention to oneself.