Vatican exempts Filipinos from Mass obligation on Dec 9

The Vatican has approved the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines' (CBCP) petition to exempt Filipino Catholics from the obligation to attend Mass on December 9, 2024, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.

This decision was made out of consideration for daily wage earners who might find it difficult to attend Mass on a weekday.

The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, traditionally celebrated on December 8, was moved to December 9 this year because December 8 coincided with the second Sunday of Advent, which ranks higher in liturgical importance.

While the observance was moved, the obligation to attend Mass was initially thought to be transferred as well, causing confusion.

Bishop David William Antonio, chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Liturgy, apologized for the confusion and thanked the Holy See for its compassionate response.

December 8 is a special non-working holiday in the Philippines by virtue of Republic Act 10966, though it remains unclear if this holiday will also be moved to December 9.

The Immaculate Conception is the principal patroness of the Philippines, with many churches dedicated to her and celebrations often marked by significant events like the Grand Marian Procession.