Q: I hope you are well. I have a liturgical question for you. This year the Solemnity of All Saints falls on a Saturday. I understand that if it falls on a Saturday or Monday, the obligation is lifted. That part is easy.

However I recall having read an email from the Liturgical committee which said that the Mass on the night of 10/31 this year should be a “weekday” mass instead of the Vigil Mass for All Saints. Presuming that what I read (or recalled) was correct, what would be the reasoning for not celebrating All-Saints Vigil on 10/31? As always, your explanation is much appreciated. Blessings and peace.

==

A: Here’s a recent post on my blog: https://paulturner.org/all-saints-day-and-all-souls-day/

An evening Mass on October 31 this year functions like an evening Mass on March 18 or March 24. Just because the next day is a solemnity doesn’t mean we can anticipate the Mass on the night before—even though Evening Prayer I applies.