Why are Catholics obliged to attend Mass every Sunday?
The Sunday Eucharist is the foundation and confirmation of all Christian practice. The Church commands the faithful to participate in Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation, unless excused for a serious reason (such as illness or the care of infants) or dispensed by their parish priest.
Sunday is the day of the Lord's Resurrection, the weekly Easter of the Church. By gathering together in the liturgical assembly, believers give public witness to their belonging to Christ, receive the Bread of Life, and build up the community.
To deliberately fail in this grave obligation without a serious reason is a mortal sin. Sunday is also meant to be kept holy by resting from unnecessary servile labour, dedicating time to family, works of mercy, and spiritual renewal.
Sources
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 2181
- Exodus 20:8
- Hebrews 10:25
Awaiting review by the chaplaincy. Written in our own words; the Church's own texts are the authority.