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Celebrating the Assumption: What Catholics Should Know This Year

Posted on August 12, 2026 in: News

Celebrating the Assumption: What Catholics Should Know This Year

The Catholic Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Saturday, August 15.

While the Assumption is ordinarily a Holy Day of Obligation in the United States, there is no obligation to attend Mass this year because the solemnity falls on a Saturday.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) explains:

“Whenever ... August 15, the solemnity of the Assumption ... falls on a Saturday or on a Monday, the precept to attend Mass is abrogated.”

The USCCB’s 2026 liturgical guidance also confirms that because August 15 falls on a Saturday this year, the obligation to attend Mass is abrogated.

Read the USCCB guidance on Holy Days of Obligation »

The Assumption celebrates our belief that Mary, at the end of her earthly life, was taken body and soul into heavenly glory. Although there is no obligation to attend Mass this year, the faithful are encouraged to honor the Blessed Mother through prayer and participation in Mass when possible.

Please check with your parish for its Mass schedule.

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Calendar of Parish Events from Around the Diocese

Posted on November 02, 2026 in: Around the Diocese

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Do you have an upcoming parish or school event that would be of interest to others in the Diocese? These folks do! Around the Diocese Submissions Please provide your event details to your parish administrator for submission. Email submissions are NOT accepted. Descriptions are limited to 30 words. Parish Admin Log-In Calendar of Events Here's what's happening Around the Diocese! Upcoming Events For events with additional information, click the blue event title to view the complete announcement or r...

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Posted on November 01, 2026 in: Reflections

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Posted on November 09, 2026 in: News, Bereavement Support

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Posted on November 05, 2026 in: News

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In Memoriam: Father Edward J. Wisneski

Posted on November 04, 2026 in: News

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St. Vincent de Paul Place Norwich Prepares for Annual Thanksgiving Dinner Drive

Posted on November 03, 2026 in: News, Volunteer Opportunities

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