Q: We received a letter from our bishop reminding us that even though Christmas Eve falls on a Sunday this year, the weekend obligation for Sunday Mass has not changed.
With that in mind, is it permissible to cancel the Sunday (morning) Mass and only have the vigil Mass on Saturday evening?
As usual, thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge with us all.
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A: In my diocese, our bishop has given explicit permission for this. At the cathedral, we have decided not to reduce Masses that Sunday morning because we are already canceling our Sunday night Mass that day in favor of Christmas Eve Masses and because it is hard to get the word out to the number of visitors who come to our services.
I suggest you check with your diocesan worship office for guidance.