When is it proper to leave Mass?

[NickFrance]

For years now, I’ve been interrupted, distracted, and quite frankly, embarrassed by the hoards of fellow Catholics leaving Mass early. Some receive the Eucharist, as you know, and don’t even return to their seat, they walk directly to their car, with Jesus still in their mouth. Now, I know this is not proper, but I’d like to know, definitively, when exactly is it proper to leave Mass? Some people tell me that once the Deacon says, “The Mass has ended; Go in peace to serve the Lord” you can leave. Others say, once Father leaves the sanctuary, then it’s ok to leave. I say, it’s after the the last hymn. Which is correct? I searched the forum to see if this has been addressed and found nothing on this issue, please forgive the question if it has been addressed – if so, can you point me to it?

Thank you!

 

[Reginald_Plum]

Nick,

Here are the links which will answer your question about leaving Mass. If you have any further questions or concerns that are not answered by these links, please contact Catholic Answers directly.

Recommended Reading:
Can you leave Mass after Communion?
What should be done about those who leave Mass early?
Is it wrong to leave before receiving communion if the consecration is not done properly?
Is the Sunday obligation met if I leave Mass early without just cause?