Is it a mortal sin to miss Mass while on vacation?

[LeftmarshMQP512]

My family and I are going on vacation to the Grand Canyon this year. We are flying in and staying for seven days. I know that missing Mass normally constitutes a mortal sin, unless you have a serious reason to, so I guess I’m wondering if traveling is enough of an excuse. We’re going to be very busy and I’m not familiar with the area, so I’m not sure if there are any Catholic Churches nearby. Also, I’m 15 years old so I don’t have a drivers license yet. Recently I’ve begun to take my faith life much more seriously, so I’ve been worrying about this a great deal. I plan to discuss my concerns with my parents regardless of the answers I receive here, but I would like some additional opinions. If you could tell me whether or not missing Mass in this circumstance would be a mortal sin, as well as offering advice on what I should do if it is, I would be greatly appreciative.
Thanks!

 

[Fr.Charles_Grondin]

As someone who cannot drive himself, you are not culpable for missing Mass if those who can drive do not take you.
On the matter of vacation and Mass attendance there is no one concrete rule. Its a matter of common sense. Our obligation to attend Mass on Sundays does not cease simply because we are not home. However, if we cannot get to Mass then the obligation is abrogated. What is a reasonable distance and time to travel to Mass? That’s something that depends on the individual and their circumstances, there is no one size fits all answer.

If you still feel uneasy you can ask your pastor for a dispensation from the Sunday obligation while you are away.

Catechism (emphasis added):

2181 The Sunday Eucharist is the foundation and confirmation of all Christian practice. For this reason the faithful are obliged to participate in the Eucharist on days of obligation, unless excused for a serious reason (for example, illness, the care of infants) or dispensed by their own pastor.