Immaculate Conception observed Dec. 9 this year

Because the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception falls on the second Sunday of Advent this year, the celebration will be observed the following day, Dec. 9.

While Catholics in the United States are normally required to attend Mass on the feast day as a holy day of obligation, there is no requirement this year. Catholics are still encouraged to attend Mass if they are able.

The solemnity celebrates the doctrine that the Blessed Virgin Mary was preserved from sin from the moment of her conception. It is the patronal feast of the United States.