I am not personally catholic, but most of one side of my family is. General rule is not even exposed shoulders or knees....
Could the priest have outlined restrictions?
I've gone to full-on "high" catholic ceremonies and I've worn a veil and pretty much been covered neck to ankles, I was fully covered going to mass at the Vatican, including my tattoos. Same as going to family Jewish events, I've sat with the women (again hiding tattoos), properly attired. My x is Greek Orthodox, there is no way I'd have walked into church with his family without being properly covered (if it was applicable). This was why I was asking about religion.