The primary purpose of a church narthex and the area outside the entrance is for the gathering of the community. The gathering before Mass and the dismissal after Mass are essential elements of Sunday, the Day of the Lord. The faithful should assist each other in lifting up their hearts and minds to God on the way in; on the way out, they should be able to share an earthly fellowship echoing the spiritual Communion they have just received.
This policy is written to facilitate the primary purpose of our church narthexes, while accommodating parish organizations and guests so far as possible.
For more reflection on the Catholic faith and our observance of the Day of the Lord, see Saint John Paul, Dies Domini.