Have you ever noticed people leaving Mass before it’s over – even right after receiving holy Communion? It can be puzzling, given that the Eucharist is the centre of Catholic life and Sunday Mass is a grave obligation. Yet arriving late or leaving early has become common enough that many people barely register it. It’s…
Why we shouldn’t leave Mass early
After attending Mass, people leave San Xavier del Bac Mission in Arizona. Photo: OSV News photo/Bob Roller

