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10 Roman Catholic Holy Days of Obligation

1. Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (January 1)

This feast celebrates the Blessed Virgin Mary's role as the mother of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
It is a holy day of obligation for Catholics worldwide.
In 2023, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God falls on Sunday, January 1.

2. Epiphany of the Lord (January 6)

This feast commemorates the visit of the three wise men to the infant Jesus in Bethlehem.
It is a holy day of obligation in some countries, but not all.
In 2023, the Epiphany of the Lord falls on Friday, January 6.

3. Ascension of the Lord (40 days after Easter)

4. Pentecost (50 days after Easter)

roman catholic holy days of obligation

10 Roman Catholic Holy Days of Obligation

This feast celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and other followers of Jesus.
It is a holy day of obligation in some countries, but not all.
In 2023, Pentecost falls on Sunday, June 11.

5. Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity (8 weeks after Easter)

This feast celebrates the mystery of God as Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
It is a holy day of obligation in some countries, but not all.
In 2023, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity falls on Sunday, June 18.

6. Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ (10 days after Trinity)

This feast celebrates the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.
It is a holy day of obligation in some countries, but not all.
In 2023, the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ falls on Sunday, June 25.

7. Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (August 15)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

8. All Saints' Day (November 1)

This feast celebrates all the saints, known and unknown, who have been saved by God.
It is a holy day of obligation in some countries, but not all.
In 2023, All Saints' Day falls on Wednesday, November 1.

9. Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary (December 8)

This feast celebrates the dogma that Mary was conceived without original sin.
It is a holy day of obligation in some countries, but not all.
In 2023, the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary falls on Friday, December 8.

10. Christmas (December 25)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming that all Roman Catholics are obliged to observe all 10 holy days of obligation. In some countries, only some of these days are holy days of obligation.
Missing Mass on a holy day of obligation. This is a serious sin for Catholics.
Engaging in servile work on a holy day of obligation. This means work that is not necessary for the common good or for one's own livelihood.
Overindulging in alcohol or food on a holy day of obligation. These days are meant to be spent in prayer and reflection, not in excessive partying.

Roman Catholic holy days of obligation are important for a number of reasons. They:

There are many benefits to observing Roman Catholic holy days of obligation. These benefits include:

Spiritual growth. Holy days of obligation provide an opportunity for Catholics to grow in their faith by participating in Mass, prayer, and other religious activities.
Renewal of the baptismal covenant. Holy days of obligation remind Catholics of their baptismal promises and challenge them to live them out more fully.
Sharing in the life of the Church. Holy days of obligation are a way for Catholics to participate in the life of the Church and to feel connected to other Catholics around the world.
A sense of peace and joy. Holy days of obligation can provide a sense of peace and joy as Catholics come together to celebrate the birth of Christ, his resurrection, and other important events in the life of