Diocese of Grand Rapids extends suspension of all public Masses through May 28

The following is a release from the Diocese of Grand Rapids.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Bishop Walkowiak has extended his suspension of all public Masses and other liturgical and devotional services throughout the Diocese of Grand Rapids through May 28, 2020. All Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids are granted a dispensation from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through June 30.

Bishop Walkowiak made this announcement in a letter to parishioners which can be read here: https://grdiocese.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Bishop-Walkowiak-Letter-Parishioners-COVID-19-May-8-2020.pdf

It reads in part, “The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. Nothing could be more essential. Yet if this essential grace is to enable us to love God with all our hearts we must seek it out in a way that also enables us to love our neighbor. From the outset of this coronavirus pandemic, science has proven that in-person contact contributes greatly to the spread of the virus. This knowledge, together with input from public health officials, led me to the decision to suspend public Masses throughout the diocese. This suspension of ALL public Masses and other liturgical and devotional services remains through May 28, 2020. Although difficult, the suspension is necessary in order to limit the spread of the virus to protect the common good. Every single life lost to COVID-19 is precious. Each person was someone’s loved one. This truth reminds us of the unique value of every person’s life. Thus, we must continue to safeguard Christ’s flock as we now seek prudent ways to restore opportunities for gathering for public worship.”

The letter also contains initial guidance for how churches in the diocese will reopen when the day arrives.

Mass will continue to be livestreamed from the Cathedral of Saint Andrew every Sunday at 10 a.m. for those who wish to view it. It can be viewed on FOX 17, on the diocesan website and Facebook page.

Updates can be found at: http://bit.ly/GRdioceseCOVID19Updates

The Diocese of Grand Rapids serves more than 191,000 Catholics, 80 parishes and 31 schools in an 11-county area of West Michigan. For additional information visit our website grdiocese.org. Connect with the diocese on Facebook (Diocese of Grand Rapids), Twitter (@GRDiocese), and Instagram (@GRDiocese).