I know that I need to be prepared to cover my shoulders it I'm in a sleeveless dress. (and have covered knees) - but does this apply to kids? Will my 11 year old son and 7 year old daughter be turned away if knees or shoulders are visible?
Posted by
217 posts
We were allowed in all churches except one. I do not remember which one (in Athens) but it wasn’t shoulders as I saw a woman with spaghetti straps but over knees dress inside. It was men in shorts that were not allowed in. And these were cargo shorts that hit mid knee cap, my husband included. We watched it happen multiple times. He said specifically no shorts and I did notice all the women had dresses on. I did not see any children try to go in.
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
3397 posts
Some churches outside have racks with long "scarves" that women can wrap around waists, to act as "skirts". Men supposedly could use these as well to cover up shorts. However, if no such racks, then out of luck.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
8058 posts
Unfortunately, there is no central authority with hard and fast rules. It is a tradition, a sign of respect, and largely up to any monitors a church may have at their doors or inside. Even with shoulders and knees covered, if they think what you are wearing is disrespectful (mid-riff showing, too tight, who knows) then they may ask you not to enter, or they may not stop anyone, many churches do not have anyone present to "check".
My guess is, your 11 year old will be treated more like an adult, your 7 year old may be cut some slack.