The Roman Missal, Third Edition, was implemented in the United States of America on the First Sunday of Advent, November 27, 2011.
Pope John Paul II announced a revised version of the Missale Romanum during the Jubilee Year 2000. Among other things, the revised edition of the Missale Romanum contains prayers for the observances of recently canonized saints, additional prefaces for the Eucharistic Prayers, additional Votive Masses and Masses and Prayers for Various Needs and Occasions, and some updated and revised rubrics (instructions) for the celebration of the Mass. The English translation of the Roman Missal will also include updated translations of existing prayers, including some of the well-known responses and acclamations of the people.
The entire Church in the United States has been blessed with this opportunity to deepen its understanding of the Sacred Liturgy, and to appreciate its meaning and importance in our lives.
Now is the time to seize the opportunity given to us for all Catholics in the United States to deepen, nurture, and celebrate our faith through the renewal of our worship and the celebration of the Sacred Liturgy.
United States Council of Catholic Bishops
Holy Days of Obligation
• January 1, the solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
• Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter, the solemnity of the Ascension, is transferred to the following Sunday in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.
• August 15, the solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
• November 1, the solemnity of All Saints
• December 8, the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception
• December 25, the solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ
