Augustinerkirche Mass

Anyone is welcome to attend a Mass at a Catholic church. Participation is neither required or expected. Respectful silence is all you need to do. Stand when everyone else stands. Sit when everyone else sits. No need to kneel if you don't want to.

Describing the Sunday 11am service at the Augustinerkirche, R.S. said it’s “a celestial experience.”
And for those who love classical music, hearing the heavenly harmony of the orchestra and chorus during a Mass composed by Mozart, is a highlight of visiting Vienna.
The church welcomes visitors. Be sure to arrive by 10:15 or so to be sure there’s seating available for you.

Thank you! That's very useful. Do you know roughly when the service would be expected to finish?

I’ve been many times to the mass at the Augustinerkirche. The hardest part for you will be that everything is in German. Im not Catholic and my German isn’t great. I go for the music. I stand when everyone stands, I sit when everyone sits. Remember to bring some small coins for the dish that gets passed around. You don’t have to take communion. I would not take photos but you’ll see plenty of disrespectful behavior from tourists who do. It will be over in about 1 hour 15 minutes.

This was my favorite part of our trip to Vienna-the music was sublime. I'm not Catholic and I didn't feel awkward or embarrassed. You do know that non-Catholics should not take communion?

We attended this Mass. I’m also Catholic. First off, the church is welcoming to all. Because you have not had First Communion, a Sacrament, just remain seated in your pew when it is time for Communion.

There is a part of Mass where we wish everyone around us “Peace be With you” or another greeting of one’s choosing. This is prior to communion. Post Covid, in my church, no one shakes hands any more. I suggest learning how to say “Peace be with You” in German and you’ll be a hit with everyone around you, who most likely will be Viennese, as you greet those around you. I did, and it was fun to experience the smiles and camaraderie from the locals because we made the effort to greet them in German.

There is also a collection where a basket is used to collect money. This money goes to charity, church operations, etc. it’s how the church makes its operating needs. I suggest throwing at least 10 euro or more into the basket. Remember you are in a beautiful place, listening to beautiful music, and being part of God’s blessing, so consider making a donation you feel is appropriate.

Logistics— arrive at 10 am. Get a good seat near the end of a pew, and when the late people arrive at 10:59, just allow them to move into the center of the pew. I like to sit on the aisle and graciously move aside when the only seats are in the middle. You will be amazed at how many arrive close to Mass. it is standing room only come 11 am.

The choir and orchestra will be playing and singing during the hour long wait for Mass. it is beautiful to hear this glorious music in this cathedral. It’s like being at a concert. Feel free to take pictures of the church after Mass. you can also buy CD’s of the Mass program at the entrance. It is a wonderful souvenir.

Thanks everyone, this is all really really good information! And yeah, I wouldn't dream of going up to receive communion, but I'm very happy to sit when everyone else sits and stand when everyone else stands :)