Can I enter even if I am not Catholic?
POS-soh en-TRA-reh AN-keh seh non SO-noh kat-TOH-lee-koh.
When you are not Catholic and want to be respectful about entering an Italian church. The answer is always yes — Italian Catholic churches welcome all visitors.
Posso entrare means can I enter. Anche se means even if. Non sono cattolico means I am not Catholic (use 'cattolica' if female). Italian churches welcome visitors of all faiths and none — respectful behaviour is the only requirement.
C'è qualcosa che non devo fare?
Is there anything I should not do?
Asking about things to avoid as a non-Catholic visitor.
Posso sedermi durante la messa?
Can I sit during mass?
Non-Catholics can attend mass as respectful observers.
Devo ricevere la comunione?
Do I have to receive communion?
Non-Catholics should not receive communion — clarifying this.
Italian Catholic churches have always been open to all visitors — this openness is a fundamental expression of Italian hospitality and of the universal mission of the Catholic Church. Respectful non-Catholic visitors are welcomed at all masses and services. The only sacrament closed to non-Catholics is the Eucharist (communion).