Do I Have to Go to Mass Twice?

Question:

Christmas Day falls on a Monday this year. Do I have to go to Mass again if I already went on Dec. 24 (Sunday) in the morning?

Answer:

Yes! This year, the 4th Sunday of Advent and Christmas are two separate obligations and therefore, a person must fulfill each one separately. Canon Law 1248 tells us that we can fulfill an obligation by attending an anticipated Mass on the evening before or a Mass on the day of the feast. If you attend Mass in the morning on Sunday, December 24th, that would only satisfy the Sunday obligation. Likewise, if you attend Mass on Monday, December 25th, that would only satisfy the Christmas obligation. It may be a bit confusing, but we’re here to help! Catholics can fulfill both obligations by attending Mass according to ONE of the following schedules:

• Saturday evening, Sunday evening

• Saturday evening, Monday morning

• Sunday morning, Sunday evening

• Sunday morning, Monday morning

Our Christmas Mass schedule is out now! Keep an eye out for it so you can plan on the best one for you!