Manila archdiocese releases circular on Dec. 31 evening masses
The Archdiocese of Manila has released a circular to remind the faithful that attendance in the holy masses on the evening of Dec. 31 will allow them to fulfill two of their religious obligations.

Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula clarified that mass goers on the evening of Dec. 31 will be able to meet their Sunday and Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God on Jan. 1 obligations.
"Those who participate in the evening masses on Dec. 31 satisfy both their Sunday obligation and the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God obligation," His Eminence said in a circular.
"We hope that this clarification will help you guide your Christian community and celebrate with lively faith the Christmas season," the Church leader said.
The cardinal said the holy masses in the morning until afternoon on Dec. 31 will be masses for the Feast of the Holy Family.
“Masses in the evening of Dec. 31 will be Vigil Masses of the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God,” Cardinal Advincula said.
Sundays are holy days of obligation for Roman Catholics. The Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God is likewise a holy day of obligation.