6.12. The nearest TLM is 5 hours away. Can I attend the local Novus Ordo Mass instead to fulfill my Sunday obligation and receive the sacraments?

This is a common and sincere concern — but here's the truth: you are not obliged to attend a Mass that is invalid. In fact, you must avoid it.

The Sunday obligation binds only when a true Catholic Mass is available. The Novus Ordo Mass, created by Paul VI in 1969, is:

• Based on Protestant theology (which denies the Real Presence),

• Uses changed words of consecration ("for all" instead of "for many"),

• Is often celebrated by invalidly ordained priests (due to the 1968 rites),

• And is part of a system that recognizes heretical popes and promotes error.

If the priest is not validly ordained, there is no Eucharist, no confession, and no grace. Attending such a Mass is not harmless — it’s potentially sacrilegious and can harm your faith.

The Church has always taught: Doubtful sacraments must be avoided. (De defectibus; Pope Leo XIII, Apostolicae Curae)

If there is no valid Mass nearby, your obligation is lifted. In such cases, you should:

• Stay home in peace,

• Pray the Rosary devoutly,

• Read the Missal or the Sunday Gospel,

• Make a spiritual communion,

• Offer your separation as a cross united to Christ.

This is not disobedience — it is heroic fidelity. It is better to fast from the sacraments temporarily than to partake in a counterfeit worship that offends God and endangers your soul.