Bishop Libasci Ends Dispensation for Sunday Obligation
06/09/2021
cfortin@olmmparish.org
Bishop Libasci, effective the weekend of June 19-20th, has lifted the dispensation for the Sunday Obligation which has been in place since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been great seeing so many individuals, couples, and families return to Mass over the course of the last year! And yet, we have been waiting in eager anticipation for those who may have not felt comfortable to return to Mass, to once again be present at our Eucharistic Assembly. At the Holy Mass, we enter as individuals, but participate as a community of people, worshiping together the God of the universe.
"Participation in the communal celebration of the Sunday Eucharist is a testimony of belonging and of being faithful to Christ and to his Church. The faithful give witness by this to their communion in faith and charity. Together they testify to God's holiness and their hope of salvation. They strengthen one another under the guidance of the Holy Spirit" (CCC 2182).
The obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days, is meant to highlight, set apart, and show the extraordinary importance of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass as "the source and summit of the Christian life" (CCC 1324). "Creation was fashioned with a view to the sabbath and therefore for the worship and adoration of God. Worship is inscribed in the order of creation. As the rule of St. Benedict says, nothing should take precedence over "the work of God", that is, solemn worship" (CCC 347). God doesn't need us to be at Mass, He wants us to be there, not because of what we can offer Him, but because of what He offers to us, most especially the Body and Blood of His only beloved Son.
We look forward to seeing you and celebrating Mass with you and your family!
