CHARLOTTE — Catholics should plan to attend two Masses over two days Dec. 8-9, when a special Marian feast falls on a Monday.
The feast of the Immaculate Conception will be celebrated on Monday, Dec. 9, instead of Dec. 8, as the latter is the Second Sunday of Advent. Both are holy days of obligation –which means Catholics should plan to go to Mass on both days.
Are two Masses required?
Yes, you must attend Mass for the Second Sunday of Advent and another for the feast of the Immaculate Conception. One Mass does not fulfill both obligations.
Check your parish bulletin or website for Mass times, as additional Masses may be offered on Sunday evening after 4 p.m. and on Monday.
What is a holy day of obligation?
Holy days of obligation are days on which Catholics must go to Mass, unless they are ill, caring for others, risk their own health/safety or the health/safety of others, or are prevented through no fault of their own (see Catechism of the Catholic Church 2180-2181). Every Sunday is a holy day of obligation.
What is the feast of the Immaculate Conception?
The feast of the Immaculate Conception is one of the most important Marian feasts in the Church’s calendar.
It honors Mary’s conception free from original sin, emphasizing her unique role as the Mother of God. Contrary to common belief, it does not celebrate the Incarnation of Jesus. Instead, it recognizes Mary receiving salvation from the moment of her conception.
Mary serves as a model of holiness and openness to God’s plan, exemplified in her response to the Angel Gabriel: “Let it be done to me according to Thy Word.” This feast invites people to reflect on God’s gifts, and recognize and respond to God’s call to carry out His plan for their life.
The Immaculate Conception is always a holy day of obligation in the United States because it is the patronal feast day of our country. For U.S. Catholics, it means that this holy day holds a special place in our list of celebrations.
— Catholic News Herald
Learn more about the feast of the Immaculate Conception.