The Bishop of Jaén, Sebastián Chico Martínez, has decreed that the solemnity of Saint James the Apostle, Patron of Spain, will maintain this year its character as a holy day of obligation throughout the diocese, even though Saturday, July 25, is a working day in Andalusia.
The decree, signed on July 16, highlights the relevance of the Apostles in the History of Salvation, as well as the special importance that the feast of Saint James has held for centuries in the Churches of Spain.
Given its coincidence with a working day, the prelate maintains the obligation to attend Mass, but dispenses from the obligation to rest from work those who must fulfill their regular workday.
Adapted schedules to facilitate attendance
The bishop has asked parish priests and rectors of churches to organize the schedules of the celebrations in such a way that the faithful can attend more easily.
Specifically, the decree requests “that they arrange the schedules of the Eucharistic celebrations in a way that facilitates to the greatest extent the participation of the faithful in them.”
The solemnity will begin with First Vespers on Friday, July 24, and will continue until Second Vespers on Saturday, July 25.
The document also specifies that the Saturday evening Mass will be that of Saint James the Apostle. For this reason, there will be no vigil Mass on Sunday, July 26.
Chico Martínez finally encourages the faithful to participate both in the celebration of Saint James and in the Sunday Mass the following day.
With this provision, the Diocese of Jaén maintains the character of obligation of the feast of the Patron of Spain and adapts the organization of the celebrations to the working condition of the day.