Catholic Singles

Dear Fr Jim:

I'm hoping you can settle a debate between my Sister-in-law and me. If we go to mass on Saturday afternoon for a wedding, does it count for our Sunday obligation?

If you could let me know your thoughts - I would really appreciate it.

Thanks,
Rob

Dear Rob:

well I don't know who's side I'm going to help win on this:

"Legally" if a wedding Mass is celebrated After 4 PM (the earliest an "anticipatory Sunday Mass" may be offered) that Wedding Mass can fulfill the Sunday Obligation.

Technically though, it shouldn't "count" since the Sunday Mass would have the readings from Sunday and the prayers for Sunday (for example, this past Sunday we heard the Gospel of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes and the other readings and prayers all tied into that) - unless a couple had those readings for their wedding Mass (which is rare) - it shouldn't "count" - but if you're going for the letter of the law, if it's after 4 PM on a Sat, it would fulfill Sunday

Not to make you feel any "Catholic guilt" - but, part of the problem is that we approach Sunday Mass solely as an obligation, a burdem, something we simply want to get "credit" for going to (Perect Attendance stickers anyone?) rather than something that the Lord has given us as His gift.

As one prayer puts it "Our prayer of thanksgiving adds nothing to your greatness, but helps us grow in holiness,"  Worshipping God isn't a chore and shouldn't be something we WANT to shortchange.  A good reminder to Priests, .iiturgical ministers and congregants alike...

Hope that helps
Fr Jim