Sunday Obligation

[seeker_of_God]

I’m confused about the Sunday obligation.

I thought I understood that you could only miss mass under extraordinary circumstances, such as you are very sick or can’t get there safely.

Well, I’m blind, so have to rely on someone else to go. Last night, my friend went to bed rather late, and so said we would probably go to mass at night instead of in the morning.

So we both woke up after the morning masses, so couldn’t go to those. I asked him tonight if we were going to go to the mass at 9:00, and he said he didn’t know, because he had a lot of work to do.

I was really shocked, because he is a cradle Catholic. I stated to him what my understanding is, and he basically said God would understand if he had to do some work (both homework as well as work for his job). We went back and forth for about 10 minutes, and neither of us got anywhere.

I think he’s agreeing to take me, anyway, but my question is, is my understanding right? I’m not asking so I can tell him “I told you so,” but just so I know for future reference, and also if there are any sources you could use, please, so I am aware.

Also, if I wouldn’t have been able to go, and wouldn’t have been able to find anyone else to take me, would I have committed a mortal sin?

 

[1ke]

Yes, your understanding is right.

Now, remember, since you are unable to take yourself to Mass you would not be sinning if you made an honest effort to get to Mass and your friend who had promised to take you now refuses to do so.

Your friend is purposely choosing not to go to Mass for a trivial reason-- and yes, that is grave matter.

 

[kage_ar]

Our Parish has a van to pick up people who cannot get to Mass. Call the office, your Parish may have a van or know people in your neighborhood who would be happy to give you a ride!

 

[Brownginger]

In regard to the Sunday Mass obligation, if one is so disturbed by what is going on at the Sunday Masses within one’s area, is the requirement to attend Mass eliminated by the near occasion of sin arising from attendance, i.e., if one is led to a sin against charity, would it be more beneficial to attend a weekday Mass and pray the Sunday Mass in private?