Fourth Sunday of Advent and Christmas Liturgies

December 7, 2023

By Bishop William A. Wack, CSC

This year, the Fourth Week of Advent is the shortest it can be – only one day long. Because Christmas Eve falls on a Sunday this year, I wish to clarify the various liturgical celebrations and obligations:

Fourth Sunday of Advent
Saturday, December 23, 2023 (Vigil Mass)
Sunday, December 24, 2023 (morning and early afternoon Masses)

Christmas (The Nativity of Our Lord)
Sunday, December 24, 2023 (late afternoon, evening, and midnight Masses)
Monday, December 25, 2023 (all Masses)

As Catholics, we are obligated to celebrate Mass on Sunday (or Saturday evening), as well as on Christmas, whether that means going again that evening or on Christmas Day itself.