New rules: Vatican takes action against abuse of Mass stipends

Vatikanstadt - For many Catholics, ordering a Mass - for the deceased, for example - in return for a donation is still an important custom. The Vatican has now presented new rules to prevent abuse of Mass stipends and Mass intentions.

Published on 13.04.2025 at 17:56 –

The Vatican wants to put a stop to the abuse of Mass stipends and Mass intentions. The aim is to put an end to such practices, which occur in various places, according to a decree issued by the clergy authority with the Pope's approval. It was published on Palm Sunday and comes into force on Easter Sunday. The decree renews the regulations formulated in the decree Mos iugiter from 1991.

In the case of so-called Mass stipends or Mass intentions, the faithful ask the priest to celebrate a Mass for a special intention and donate a certain amount in return. In the new decree, the Vatican calls on priests to keep only a portion of these donations and to pass on the rest to needy parishes. It is by no means a question of "selling" sacraments, but of a sacred tradition that must remain free of any semblance of commerciality. The donations made for the sacraments are a form of spiritual participation and support for the Church's mission.

Poor people do not have to donate for Mass

The priest must also ensure that the most needy are not deprived of the help of the sacraments. They should therefore also be able to order masses without financial compensation. The request for donations by the priest or even the acceptance of gifts is forbidden if it is not a matter of a Mass, but only of a simple commemoration.

At the same time, the clergy authority is calling on bishops to be vigilant. Mass intentions and Mass stipends must always be recorded and monitored. The decree also explicitly states that not only bishops and priests, but also parishioners should be informed. (KNA)