Dear Parishioners,
I would like to forward you a note from Archbishop Bernard Hebda regarding the upcoming Solemnity of The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
This year, December 8th occurs on the Second Sunday of Advent. In accordance with liturgical and canon law, the liturgical celebration of the Immaculate Conception is for this year transferred to Monday, December 9, 2024.
The Holy See has recently clarified that, in contrast to the prevalent understanding in the United States, as reflected even in the official Ordo published for the dioceses of our Province, the usual obligation for the faithful to attend Mass on the Solemnity applies even when the celebration is transferred to December 9.
Subsequent to the publication of that decision, I learned that many, if not most, of our parishes have already established their Mass schedules for December 8 and December 9 in reliance on the Ordo and past practice and not anticipating that December 9 would be a Holy Day of obligation. Given the difficulty of adjusting schedules and finding sufficient priests at this late date for the celebration of additional Masses on December 9,
I hereby
DISPENSE FROM THE OBLIGATION TO ATTEND MASS IN THE ARCHDIOCESE OF SAINT PAUL AND MINNEAPOLIS ON DECEMBER 9, 2024
This dispensation applies to those faithful domiciled or physically present in the territory of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis on December 9, 2024.
Those who are able to observe the Solemnity by participation at Mass are strongly encouraged to do so. All who enjoy the benefit of this dispensation are exhorted tocommemorate the Immaculate Conception in another fitting manner, such as by reciting the Liturgy of the Hours or reflecting on the readings for the day, or engaging in prayer either individually, with others, or as a family.
As we each honor this special day dedicated to Our Blessed Mother, the Patroness of the United States of America, let us reflect on her unique role in salvation history and ask her intercession for this nation.
Please notice that, even though we are dispensed from the obligation, it is still encouraged to participate at Mass, reflect on the readings, or incorporate some other spiritual component into your day to mark the celebration. For example, it would be a great day to pray the rosary! We, of course, will have our regularly scheduled 8 a.m. Mass with Fr. Cassian that day, and I hope you are able to make it. May God bless you all!
Click here to view the Archbishop's Decree and Dispensation.
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Bill Duffert