Mass Obligation To Be Reinstated For Minnesota Catholics

ST. PAUL, MN — The obligation to attend Sunday Mass each week will be reinstated for Minnesota Catholics starting July 4, the state's bishops announced Thursday. The obligation had been dispensed since March 2020 as the gravity of the coronavirus pandemic became clear.

Many Minnesota Catholics have attended Mass in-person, while wearing masks, throughout much of the pandemic. Others have watched church services online. The Catholic dioceses throughout Minnesota allowed both options.

"Now, as the pandemic subsides, and public gathering restrictions and safety protocols are lifted, it is time to gather as the Body of Christ once again," the bishops wrote in a letter to parishioners.

"Therefore, the bishops and diocesan administrators of the Minnesota Catholic Conference have decided to reinstate the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation beginning the weekend of July 3-4, 2021."

The bishops listed seven exceptions to the obligation that will continue for Minnesota Catholics if applicable.

Thursday's announcement is a part of the #backtomassmn campaign, which encourages Catholics to return to their parishes for Mass in person.