Guidance on Visiting Places of Worship
General
Visiting a place of worship is a good way to learn about other people's faith and religion. There are many places within Greenwich that you may visit.Usually people are delighted to show others their place of worship. It is a sharing of what they hold very dear. They will, however, hope that the visitor will be respectful and observe certain basic rules of conduct.
Whether visiting alone, or in a group, it is important to follow the guidelines for clothing and behaviour so as not to cause offence. For example, it is important not to talk loudly, thus disturbing any who may be at prayer. If anyone has special needs, it is good to let the place/centre that is being visited know about this in advance so that they can prepare to help. For example, although the normal custom of the place of worship in question may be to sit on the floor or to stand for worship, chairs can often be provided for elderly, infirm or disabled visitors. Ask before taking any photographs, as this is not always allowed.
Most religious communities would expect visitors to dress modestly when visiting their centre or place of worship. This may be extended in some communities to having one's head covered and as you may be sitting on the floor short dresses and skirts are unsuitable. Some religious communities require shoes to be removed before entering their place of worship and visitors may be asked to wash their hands before entering the place of worship.
Most religious communities would find it offensive if tobacco, alcohol or drugs were brought to their centres or places of worship. Back to top
Hinduism
*Modest dress*Shoes removed
*No leather
*Males and females are seated on either side of the worship area
*Wash hands Back to top
Islam
*Modest dress*Head covered
*Shoes removed
*Males and females are seated separately
*Wash hands Back to top
Judaism
*Modest dress*Head covered
*Males and females are seated separately (sometimes) Back to top
Sikhism
*Modest dress*Head covered
*Shoes removed
*No leather
*Males and females are seated on either side of the worship area
*Wash hands Back to top