Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear?

We want you to feel comfortable. After all, we are thrilled that you're joining us and want you to be more focused on the service than what you're wearing. In the summertime, it's not uncommon to see people wearing sandals, shorts, and a shirt. Others prefer to still put on their "Sunday best," and that's fine too! However, we do request that shorts be of a conservative length (no “short-shorts”) and that in general, clothing be respectable and conservative.

How do I get to St. Thomas the Apostle?

Our parish is located at 3774 Jackson Street, Riverside CA 92503. Here is a map.

Where should I park?

If you are attending Mass over the weekend you may park in our parking lot by entering either our south-gate or north-gate entrances. If you are visiting the office or are attending our daily mass, you may park in the guest parking outside of the north-gate along Jackson Street or in the south-gate parking lot during the week.

Are there accommodations for my children?

For your convenience we have a family friendly room in the back of the church adjacent to the south-gate. You are welcome to join other families for mass or if your little one just needs a minute to get their wiggles out until you feel comfortable 

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, our parish embraces technology to ensure everyone feels welcome and included during Mass. Projectors display prayers, readings, and even hymns, creating a more accessible experience for those hard of hearing and encouraging active participation for all. "Bringing Everyone Together."

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

Communion, or The Eucharist, is the most intimate expression of our faith. Catholics believe that the host is literally the body of Christ, transformed from bread by the priest presiding over the service. Most evangelicals think of Communion as symbolic, so it makes sense that they are not as strict about having the right relationship to it as Catholics and Orthodox Christians who believe it is a sacrament and the true presence of Christ. So, if you are not Catholic, we ask that you not receive communion. However, those not receiving the Body of Christ and Precious blood are invited to come forward with their hands crossed over their chests for a special blessing.

Am I expected to put money in the offering?

If you are visiting with us, we don't expect you to put money in 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, bi-weekly or monthly basis. You can give by check or cash during mass, or you can sign up for online giving here.