Is it a sin to listen to mass on podcast and not go to church?

Share

Your question is an interesting one and one we’ve talked about before.  While you have good intentions in trying to keep your Sunday obligation to God by listening to the podcast of mass, you’re missing one of the main elements that we have at mass which is the community.

Mass is not just about our own relationship between God and oursleves but also it’s about our relationship to the community that we live in as well–it’s about coming together as a community and praying with one another.  We remember that not one of the disciples shared the last supper with Jesus alone, rather they ate the first Eucharist together.

So the question here is not merely about punching your mass attendance card but it’s about finding a community that you can feel comfortable praying with at mass.  Perhaps you give the place a try that doesn’t speak your language and maybe that improves your language skills in a new language and you form new relationships there?  Maybe you find a place that speaks you language and you work out the logistics of getting there even though it’s not right next door?  Whatever you decide it’s about praying in communion.  Mass, via media, is only a possibility for those who are ill and have to seclude themselves for health reasons.

Mike Hayes is the Senior Editor for Googling God

Deacon Mike Hayes was ordained for the diocese of Cleveland in 2024 and is assigned to St. Christopher’s Parish in Rocky River, OH. He serves the diocese in multiple roles as Director of Chaplaincy Services, the Bishop’s Delegate for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations and as the Delegate for Active Deacons. He’s also the host of 5 Questions with the Paulists and a frequent host on the Deacon’s Pod as a Paulist Deacon Affiliate. Deacon Mike is one of the founders of Busted Halo and worked with young adults for 25 years in retreat, spiritual direction, and campus Ministry. He’s the author of “Googling God” (Paulist, 2007) and “Loving Work” (Orbis, 2012). Deacon Mike and his wife Marion live in Lakewood, OH with their dog, Vito.

Stay Connected with Busted Halo

Join our community and receive the latest updates, reflections, and resources directly to your inbox.

Voices from the Back Pew

Honest stories from Catholics who question, struggle, or wrestle with faith and Church — reminding us all that no one sits alone in the pews.

More from Deacon Mike Hayes

More from Faith Resources

Like what you see? 

Sign up for the Busted Halo weekly newsletter for more faith shared joyfully (straight to your inbox)

Subscribe

* indicates required

NOTE: We're only sending email messages to people who CHECK THIS BOX. So, if you want to hear from us, go ahead and check the box! Busted Halo will use the information you provide on this form to provide you with content and fundraising updates. Please confirm that you would like to hear from us via email:

You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at info@bustedhalo.com. We will treat your information with respect. For more information about our privacy practices please visit our website. By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.

We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices.