Holy Day of Obligation (Jan 1st) and working

[Frosty_Gurl]

I would love to attend church on January 1st for the Holy Day of Obligation, however, I am nurse and am working 12 hours that day- 7 am to 7pm. Mass is at 10:00am. Is this a mortal sin. It is not that I don’t want to be there, I would love more than anything to attend, but can’t. Also, after returning to faith recently, I have a question about keeping Sunday free from work. I work every other Sunday and have spoken with Father S about this, and because I go to daily Mass as able, he has ‘released’ me from the obligation on the days that I work and have no control over. What about going to the store or going out to eat on Sunday. Is that allowed or as strict as it was in the past?? Thanks again for the help and God

 

[puppypatrol]

No mortal sin. I have been advised that, if you have no control over the situation as in your situation, you are not missing Mass of your own accord. Now, if you miss Mass because, let’s say, too much bubbly the night before, not a good excuse and you had better make a bee line to the nearest confessional.

 

[Phemie]

If you are unable to attend there is no obligation to do so. Since your pastor has already released you from the obligation on days that you are working, the Feast of Mary, Mother of God is covered.

If you are not working on the 31st, you might check and see if there is an evening Mass you could attend. It would fulfill your obligation for Jan. 1.