A Note From the Pastor: July 20, 2025

Occasionally, I am asked: “If I don’t arrive when Mass starts, at what point in the Mass am I considered too late to receive the Eucharist?” In the past, it was more clearly defined: If you arrive after the Offertory (Preparation of the Altar), you’re too late. This is because the Liturgy of the Eucharist was regarded as the only essential part of Mass. Like answers to many questions of the faith, it was a logical and clear distinction.

With the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council (Sacrosanctum Concilium), the role of the laity in the liturgy was emphasized. Along with the presider, all the baptized faithful have a right and duty to be part of the worship offered to the Father—to be fully conscious and active in their participation of the Mass.

Because we now believe that each of us—a priestly people, by virtue of baptism—is an important part of the worship, it’s important that we’re here for the whole Mass. Just as it would seem odd if I as the presider, showed up during the second reading, it’s odd if you do too.

Although we tend to think of the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist as two distinct parts, Sacrosanctum Concilium made it clear that they are dependent upon one another, forming a single act of worship (which also includes the Entrance, as well as the Final Blessing and Dismissal). By not participating in any part, it undermines the whole act of worship. So please don’t leave after communion; remain in pew until the priest reaches the back of the church!

How late is too late? The Catechism and Canon Law do not provide a exact black/white answer to questions of this sort. Rather than establish a ‘bare minimum’ necessary for validity, the Church challenges us to aspire for a higher ideal.

With responsibility to the integrity of the Sacraments, as well as the well-being of your souls, I ask you to arrive to Mass on time. I realize it’s not easy, particularly for those who are doing their absolute best to get children dressed and out the door, arriving to Mass already exhausted. But for those who are regularly late, consider leaving the house a few minutes earlier. By the way, I also struggle to be on time—I get it.

The Eucharist is not a reward for punctuality or any other good habits or behaviors. It is an unmerited gift. Let us never take this gift of God for granted (see 1 Cor 11:27-29), but let us also rejoice in a patient Father whose love endures forever.

Yours in Christ,

Father Todd O. Strange