NextPewWest Michigan

A plain guide

What are the holy days of obligation in the US?

Holy days of obligation are the great feasts, besides every Sunday, when Catholics are asked to go to Mass. In the United States there are six, and in most dioceses the Ascension is kept on the following Sunday.

The six holy days in the United States

The Church asks us to keep these days the way we keep Sunday: by joining in Mass and resting from needless work where we can. It isn’t a test. It’s an invitation to celebrate the biggest moments of the faith together.

When a holy day falls on a Saturday or Monday

In the United States, when January 1, August 15 or November 1 falls on a Saturday or a Monday, the obligation to go to Mass is lifted. Parishes still celebrate the feast, and you are warmly welcome to go.

This rule does not apply to Christmas or the Immaculate Conception. They are holy days of obligation on any day of the week.

When December 8 falls on a Sunday of Advent, the Immaculate Conception moves to Monday, December 9. In 2024 the Holy See clarified that the obligation moves with it. US practice had long been the opposite, so watch for your diocese’s notice the next time it happens, in 2030.

When a holy day falls on a Sunday, the usual Saturday evening and Sunday Masses are the holy day Masses. One Mass covers both.

Vigil Masses count

A Mass on the evening before a holy day fulfills the obligation, just as a Saturday evening Mass does for Sunday. Christmas Eve Masses count for Christmas. Parishes often add extra Masses on holy days, so check the times rather than assume the usual schedule.

Who is excused

The obligation binds Catholics who are able to go. If you are sick, caring for a baby or someone who needs you, or have another serious reason, you are excused. That isn’t a sin. Your pastor can also dispense you for a good reason. If you can’t get to Mass, spending some time in prayer at home is a good way to keep the day.

Coming up in West Michigan

Find posted holy day Masses on holy day Mass times in West Michigan, or see every Mass today in the West Michigan Mass and confession finder.

Frequently asked questions

Is it a sin to miss Mass on a holy day of obligation?

The Church teaches that deliberately missing Mass on a Sunday or holy day, without a serious reason, is a grave matter. Missing it because you were sick or had a real need is not a sin. If you have missed, Confession is a simple way back.

Does a Saturday evening Mass count for a Sunday holy day?

Yes. When a holy day falls on a Sunday, a Saturday evening Mass counts for both, because it is the same celebration.

Is Ascension Thursday a holy day of obligation?

It depends on where you live. In most US dioceses the bishops have moved the Ascension to the Seventh Sunday of Easter, so you keep it by going to Mass that Sunday. A few provinces keep it on Thursday. Follow the practice of the place you are in, and check your diocese’s calendar if you aren’t sure.

Is All Souls Day a holy day of obligation?

No. All Souls, November 2, is a day to pray for those who have died. Going to Mass is a beautiful way to keep it, but it is not required.

Is Ash Wednesday a holy day of obligation?

No. Ash Wednesday is a day of fasting and abstinence, but going to Mass is not required. Many people go anyway.

Learn more

Written by NextPew as a friendly helper, not an official text. Your parish and your diocese have the final word on each year’s calendar.

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