Is it rude to read a novel in church? (churches, quote, believers)

[CCS414]

I mainly go to church to help my wife look after the kids when she's up front playing the organ. I dont really share those beliefs. So in your opinion is it rude to bring a novel to read in church? I look around and often see people who supposedly are believers scrolling through their cell phones. What'da think, would that be bad form/etiquette?

[QuakerBaker]

Some will and some won't. Maybe just be discreet about it. I think many church services are less active and just have people there to listen not engage and discuss, which invites more of that behavior.

[mordant]

I would, as QB says, be very discrete about it. It could be seen as disrespectful by some. I would not want to ruin the experience for others.

Don't ever try this at some churches where you have to stand up and sit down 47 times during the liturgy. It would only work at more sedate mainline denominational churches, I would think.

I wonder if you're asking this because your wife finds it embarrassing or thinks it might endanger her gig? You have to take that into account as well.

[leastprime]

go sit in the car or take a walk for an hour.
You are in One's house, so act accordingly if you witness the Service.

[Miss Hepburn]

LOL, I thought this was a joke question!
On their phones in church? Now that is bad form.
If it would be rude doing that at your wife's family gathering ...
I'd say it's rude their, also.
Tho, it would be nice for you at both places!

[phetaroi]

Originally Posted by mordant

I would, as QB says, be very discrete about it. It could be seen as disrespectful by some. I would not want to ruin the experience for others.

Don't ever try this at some churches where you have to stand up and sit down 47 times during the liturgy. It would only work at more sedate mainline denominational churches, I would think.

I wonder if you're asking this because your wife finds it embarrassing or thinks it might endanger her gig? You have to take that into account as well.

Agreed. I think it would be better not to go.

[Horn of ‘83]

Yes, I think it would be rude and disrespectful.

[ClaraC]

CCS, this is extremely rude. You must know this.

If someone pulls out their phone to check for texts here and there, because they're expecting something they need to see, that's one thing.

But to bring a book and sit on a church bench with your kids while you sit and read, is rude. Everyone can see you're doing it.

What does your wife think about you doing this, while she's providing the organ music?

[Miss Hepburn]

Originally Posted by ClaraC

But to bring a book and sit on a church bench with your kids while you sit and read, is rude.
Everyone can see you're doing it.

I crack up just picturing it! It's too nutty...lol. What's next week ? A crossword puzzle? hahahahaha

[Mightyqueen801]

Yes, of course it would be rude. Boorish, actually.

How are you "looking after the kids" when you are reading?

You would be setting a poor example for them besides by demonstrating that it's OK to be disrespectful to other people's religious beliefs while sitting in their house.