Vatican updates Norms on Mass Intentions and Stipends

Apr 25, 2025

VATICAN: The Vatican’s Dicastery for the Clergy has released a new decree updating norms on Mass intentions and stipends, approved by Pope Francis on Palm Sunday (April 13). The new rules took effect on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025.

While maintaining Canon 945, the decree introduces revised norms for “collective intentions”, allowing multiple offerings for one Mass only if all donors are explicitly informed and give free consent — consent cannot be presumed.

It strongly warns against treating Mass offerings as commercial transactions, reaffirming that doing so constitutes simony, a serious abuse.

The decree responds to modern pastoral challenges, especially priest shortages, while ensuring that Mass intentions retain their spiritual integrity. It urges bishops to educate clergy and laity on the new norms, keep proper records, and promote free Masses for the poor.

Priests may not replace promised Masses with general mentions during liturgies — doing so is considered “gravely illicit.” Diocesan bishops may redirect surplus Mass intentions to support needy parishes or mission territories, fostering global solidarity. --LiCAS News