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Which holy days of obligation are observed by Roman Catholics in the United States?
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A church altar decorated with saint icons for All Saints' Day.
In the United States, Roman Catholics are required to attend mass on six specific holy days of obligation, in addition to all Sundays. These days are:
- Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (January 1)1
- Ascension of the Lord (observed on the Thursday of the sixth week of Easter, though practice may vary by ecclesiastical province)21
- Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (August 15)21
- All Saints’ Day (November 1)21
- Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary (December 8)21
- Christmas (December 25)21
While canon law historically designated 10 such days, the number has been reduced in the United States to accommodate civil schedules. Additionally, bishops in the United States have the authority to temporarily waive the obligation to attend mass when certain holy days fall on a Saturday or a Monday.23