Super Bowl Sunday usually means attendance dip for popular mass

The Sunday night mass at Gesu Parish in Milwaukee is one of the most popular, but church leaders say they’re expecting thinner crowds this week.

“Super Bowl Sunday you’re probably looking at a difference 100 to 150 people,” said Father Jim Flaherty, Pastor at Gesu Parish.

Typically, they welcome in up to 500 on a normal night.

The Chiefs and 49ers are expected to kickoff around 5:30 p.m., which will likely cut into attendance at their 6 p.m. service.

“The Packers aren’t playing this year unfortunately, but regardless people will have their Super Bowl parties,” Father Flaherty said. “Our hope is obviously they opt for one of the morning masses.”

He says it’s not unusual to see a bit of a spike throughout their three morning services on Sunday.