Dispensation of mass lifted for Las Cruces Catholics

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico — The Diocese of Las Cruces Bishop Peter Baldacchino announced he is lifting the dispensation of Sunday and Holy Days mass obligation beginning Sunday, June 6.

Due to the pandemic, many Catholic Churches across the country lifted the obligation from parishioners to attend Mass on Sundays and on Holy Days.

Bishop Baldacchino said he decided to lift the dispensation, due to the increase of availability of the Covid-19 vaccines, and the fact that 55% of those 16 years and older in New Mexico are now fully vaccinated.

“I welcome the Christian faithful to return to the regular participation of the Sunday Eucharist, the source and summit of our Catholic faith” Baldacchino said.

The Diocese said there are still exceptions to the obligation. Anyone with a “serious reason” and “grave cause” is excused.

In the case of the pandemic, the diocese said a “serious reason” and “grave cause” would include:

• Anyone who is sick, symptomatic or has been recently exposed to the coronavirus
• Anyone with significant health risk factors that requires them to avoid public spaces, or if you care for someone with significant risk factors
• Anyone who cannot attend mass through no fault of their own, for example due to hospitalization