Dispensation and Obligation to Attend Mass on Sundays
The Sunday obligation is a great gift to humanity, and Catholics are called to fulfill it with a joyful heart.
Here are some FAQ’s about the Dispensation and Mass Obligation:
When will the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation be restored?
Beginning Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022, Bishop Zarama has lifted the dispensation that has been in place for the Mass obligation for Sundays and Holy Days for the faithful in the Diocese of Raleigh.
Why are Catholics normally obligated to attend Mass?
For centuries, the Catholic Church has had in place an obligation for Catholics to participate in Mass on Sundays and Holy Days. This obligation has never been one of duress, but stems from the crucial importance that Sundays and Holy Days hold as principal moments wherein God engages us to be built up more fully into the Body of Christ. We share in the corporate work of liturgy to become ever more authentic witnesses to the presence of God always at work among us.
“Participation in the communal celebration of the Sunday Eucharist is a testimony of belonging and of being faithful to Christ and to his Church. The faithful give witness by this to their communion in faith and charity. Together they testify to God’s holiness and their hope of salvation. They strengthen one another under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.” Catechism 2182
The Sunday and Holy Day obligation is not something God asks of us out of his own necessity or need to be worshipped, but rather a gift to the faithful for our own spiritual well-being, happiness, and eternal salvation.
Why is the general dispensation being lifted?
In the interest of promoting the common good, the dioceses and our parishes have taken many steps to help protect public health during this global pandemic.
As the Eucharist is the “source and summit” of our Christian life, we have always considered Mass to be an essential activity and have done our best to balance public health concerns while still providing access to the Mass and Sacraments to the faithful.
A general dispensation was granted when public Masses were initially suspended and kept in place while it remained reasonable for any Catholic to decide it was prudent for them to stay home.
Now, as the worst of the pandemic seems to be behind us, and many other areas of life continue to move back towards normal, the time has come that a general dispensation is no longer necessary for every Catholic.
Does this mean everyone is obligated to go to Mass again?
No. Long before this pandemic, the Church has always recognized that there are “serious” or “grave” reasons that prevent Catholics from attending Mass. It is important to remember, that the Church specifies that the elderly, sick, those with pre-existing health conditions or other vulnerable people are always dispensed from this Mass obligation. In some instances, the bishop or pastor may “lift the obilgation” among the faithful. This may occur during severe weather, for instance. Most recently, this has been the case during the COVID pandemic.
In the case of this pandemic, serious or grave reasons would include:
- Anyone who is sick, symptomatic, or has been recently exposed to the coronavirus. Protecting the health of others is an act of Christian charity and our moral duty to one another.
- Anyone with significant health risk factors that requires them to avoid public spaces, or if you care for someone with significant risk factors.
- Anyone who cannot attend Mass through no fault of their own, for example, if a parish has reached capacity.
I am unsure if I have a “serious reason” to stay home, what should I do?
Anyone who is unsure about their personal situation should speak with their pastor or any priest.
Final Thoughts…
Bishop Luis offers this reminder that the obligation to attend Mass is also an invitation to return to our churches and renew ourselves in receiving God’s love through the Eucharist.
“The doors of our churches are wide open,” said Bishop Luis. “Now let us open our hearts, embracing each other in community and fully embracing the gift of God’s love with an open and joyful heart.”
Resources:
Sunday Mass obligation returns to the Diocese of Raleigh
What is the Sunday obligation for Catholics?
Welcoming Them Home: 7 Tips For Churches To Reengage Parishioners