Fr. Zenhle is absolutely correct! If you're a Christian of any denomination, you should find true enjoyment and fulfillment in attending a service where you worship the Lord and give thanks for the eternal life He offered all believers. To see mass, or any Christian church service, as an "obligation", rather than a joyous occasion, should cause a person to closely re-examine their relationship with Christ. God's blessings be with you all.

Going to Mass is our privilege as Catholics. We should strive to arrive early, participate fully and stay until the conclusion.

I listen to quite a lot of Catholic channels, so I don't actually know who said this, but I will always remember it. Jesus, arms stretched out on the cross, said, "I love you this much." Shouldn't we be there before mass starts and stay til the last song is finished? For I love Jesus that much. God bless you, Father, and thank you. Jan

Thank you for sharing! Ideally, it’s best to be at the church an hour before holy Mass, to prepare oneself. Stating in prayer afterward, giving thanks to God is very good too. Most people just leave so fast after Mass and don’t stay in prayer, unfortunately.

Other than a dire emergency, we should want to be in His Presence as long as possible. After all, He hung on the cross much longer than most masses. Where would we be if Jesus just did "the bare minimum" ????

Also, know that when you arrive late and leave early, you're creating a distraction to those around you, especially those deep in prayer. And if you do arrive late, please try to find a pew that has empty space that's easier for you not to disturb other worshipers rather than insisting on sitting in your regular spot.

I am a greeter, I feel guilty when I get up and stand at the door . I feel like I have left Jesus hanging even though I hear the final prayers and song . Is this considered leaving early .