GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The obligation to attend Sunday Mass will be reinstated next month after it was lifted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bishop David L. Ricken of the Diocese of Green Bay announced the reinstatement the obligation will go into effect the weekend of August 14-15.
“Since we are experiencing greater health in our communities and our parishes, after much discernment and consultation, I have decided to reinstate the obligation to attend Sunday Mass effective on August 15th, the Solemnity of the Assumption of Our Lady into heaven,” said Bishop Ricken. “Because we truly love God, and strive to be missionary disciples, we would want to spend time with Him, to worship, praise and adore Him. The Sunday Mass is the most complete way we can do this.”
Even with the reinstatement of the obligation, there are still occasions when the obligation does not apply:
- If individual Catholics struggle with serious health concerns or are physically or morally prevented from worshipping at Mass for a serious reason
- If individuals are frail due to illness or age or, in their well-formed conscience believe that going into public places — including Sunday worship at Mass — would place their health or the health of their loved ones in serious jeopardy
- If individuals are sick, or have been in contact with someone who has been sick
- If there is severe weather
The Diocese of Green Bay says the faithful who are unable to attend Mass should follow the third Commandment “To Keep Holy the Lord’s Day” by spending time in prayer, reading the Scriptures, and taking part in acts of charity from home.
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