Catholics are obligated to attend Mass on every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation – including Christmas. This year, even though the Sunday obligation and Christmas obligation fall back-to-back, each has their own, distinct obligation. To fulfill the Sunday obligation, Catholics must attend Mass anytime after 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 23 or any time on Sunday, Dec. 24. To fulfill the Christmas obligation, Catholics must attend a second Mass anytime after 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 24 or any time on Monday, Dec. 25.

This year, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God on Jan. 1, 2024 also falls on a Monday; however, there is no obligation this year.