In the Catholic Church, Holy Days of Obligation are the days on which practicing Catholics are obligated to attend Mass, including the Ascension, All Saints Day and Christmas. In addition, each Sunday is also considered a Holy Day of Obligation.
The Holy Days of Obligation in the United States
- January 1, the solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
- Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter, the solemnity of the Ascension
- August 15, the solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
- November 1, the solemnity of All Saints
- December 8, the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception
- December 25, the solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Canon 1247 of the Code of Canon Law
"On Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are obliged to participate in the Mass. Moreover, they are to abstain from those works and aVairs which hinder the worship to be rendered to God, the joy proper to the Lord's day, or the suitable relaxation of mind and body."The Vatican: Canon 1246 of the Code of Canon Law
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Holy Days of Obligation are considered a part of a commitment to the Catholic faith
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Fact:
Catholics are required to attend Mass on Holy Days of Obligation
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If three of the Holy Days
January 1, August 15 and November 1, fall on a Saturday or a Monday, "precept to attend Mass is abrogated"United States Conference of Catholic Bishops: ...Holy Days of Obligation in the United States...
