We get many inquiries, especially this time of year, regarding the Easter Duty for Catholics, so I thought I would post another article on the topic - somewhat repeating earlier articles (see links at the end of this one).
What is Easter Duty?
Simply stated, it is the obligation of every Catholic to receive Holy Eucharist at least once during the period of Eastertide, beginning at the First Mass of Easter (Easter Vigil) through Pentecost Sunday. This is according to the "Third Precept" and Canon 920 the Code of Canon Law which states:
Can. 920 §1. After being initiated into the Most Holy Eucharist, each of the faithful is obliged to receive holy communion at least once a year.
§2. This precept must be fulfilled during the Easter season unless it is fulfilled for a just cause at another time during the year.
Now if one has been absent from the Mass for any length of time due to their own fault and/or negligence (even if only ONCE!) then they cannot licitly approach the communion rail without first availing themselves to the Sacrament of Penance (Confession). Why? Because the "First Precept" comes before the "Third Precept!" The "First Precept" states:
CCC 2042 The first precept ("You shall attend Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation and rest from servile labor") requires the faithful to sanctify the day commemorating the Resurrection of the Lord as well as the principal liturgical feasts honoring the Mysteries of the Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the saints; in the first place, by participating in the Eucharistic celebration, in which the Christian community is gathered, and by resting from those works and activities which could impede such a sanctification of these days.
If one has not received any of the Sacraments for over a year, then the "Second Precept" is also relevant for it states:
"You shall confess your sins at least once a year" which ensures preparation for the Eucharist by the reception of the sacrament of reconciliation, which continues Baptism's work of conversion and forgiveness.
THEN we get to the "Third Precept" which specifically applies to the "Easter Duty" -
"You shall receive the sacrament of the Eucharist at least during the Easter season" guarantees as a minimum the reception of the Lord's Body and Blood in connection with the Paschal feasts, the origin and center of the Christian liturgy.
So, while the "Third Precept" is important, and one which no faithful Catholic can willfully avoid, one must consider the first two precepts before just marching in to your local Catholic parish and receiving the Eucharist.
Is Easter Duty Only Fulfilled on Easter Sunday?
No! Many think that "Easter Duty" only applies to Easter Sunday, but as you have seen from the precepts quoted and cited above, the "Easter Season" lasts from the First Mass of Easter (Easter Vigil) until Pentecost Sunday. You can take care of going to Confession at any time prior to or even during Eastertide. The precept regarding Confession is just once per year, minimally (you can go every week if you have something to confess!). So say you go to Confession now, as long as you do not fall into mortal sin again prior to Easter, you can receive the Eucharist any time starting with the Easter Vigil and Pentecost and you've then fulfilled both the second and third precepts. If you're planning on attending Mass ONLY on Easter Sunday, and especially if you have not gone to Confession prior to attending - then you're not doing yourself any favors!
So, I fulfilled my Easter Duty, I'm good till next year, right?
Well, if you're "good" then you're not avoiding the First Precept! All faithful Catholics MUST attend the Eucharist EVERY Sunday and holy day of obligation (as set forth by the local bishop). Keep in mind, it does not state you have to receive the Eucharist every Sunday, only that you must participate in the Mass every Sunday (and holy day of obligation). If you are in mortal sin, that's no excuse NOT to go to Mass! If you're excommunicated, you're still obliged to attend Mass EVERY Sunday; you just cannot receive any other Sacraments until you've submitted yourself to the Sacrament of Reconciliation (aka: Penance or Confession). In essence, if you're abiding by the First Precept then you'll have no problem fulfilling the Second and Third Precepts.
I hope this helps sort things out, and as usual, if you have any questions regarding this, feel free to enter a comment in the Comments Box (combox).
May God be with you and guide you through the remainder of Lent, and bless you with a great and holy Easter season.
In Christ Jesus,
Scott<<<
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