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Holy Days of Obligation

by Jon Jakoblich

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The Holy See has set ten days of the year as Holy Days of Obligation. A Holy Day of Obligation is a day in which all Catholics are required to attend Mass to celebrate a particular occasion in the faith. Holy Days of Obligation can vary from country to country because bishops are free to set their own holy days with the approval of the Vatican. Below are the ten Holy Days of Obligation as prescribed by Rome (check with your local parish or diocese regarding the obligation for these days):

  1. Christmas
  2. Epiphany
  3. Ascension
  4. The Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi)
  5. Mary, Mother of God
  6. Immaculate Conception
  7. Assumption
  8. St. Joseph
  9. Saints Peter & Paul
  10. All Saints

About the Author

Jon JakoblichJon is the founder of About Catholics. He has a Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry with a concentration in Church Management from Boston College and is fulfilling his vocation as a Parish Business Administrator in Minnesota. He also has 3 years experience in youth ministry and a passion for his Catholic faith.