Bishop Walkowiak issues the following directives for parishes and schools in the diocese, effective immediately, in harmony with new government guidelines:
Weekend Masses through Sunday, March 29 in the Diocese of Grand Rapids have been canceled.
However, the Church’s life of prayer must continue:
Churches should remain open for private prayer during normal weekend Mass times and other times as normally scheduled.
Mass will continue to be livestreamed from the cathedral for those who wish to view it. It can be viewed on FOX 17, on the diocesan website and Facebook page.
While weekend Masses are cancelled, please tune in to watch 10 a.m. Mass from the cathedral on Sunday, March 15, which will be celebrated by Bishop David Walkowiak.
Catholics are encouraged to make a spiritual Communion, pray the rosary, or meditate on Sacred Scripture to keep holy the Lord’s Day.
Daily Masses, where less than 100 people are gathered, should continue in accord with the guidelines from March 11, 2020 in place.
Visits to the sick and homebound should continue.
Funeral Masses may be celebrated.
All Catholic Schools in the diocese are closed in accordance with the Governor’s order.
Faith Formation classes should be suspended until Monday, April 6 in accordance with the Governor’s order.
Any event at a parish where more than 100 people are gathered in a single space indoors should be postponed or canceled until further notice.
Schools and parishes may consider drive thru or take-out options for fish fries where less than 100 people are gathered in a single space indoors.
Any event at a parish where less than 100 people are gathered in a single space indoors may continue at this time.
As people of faith, let us pray for all affected by this virus, especially those who have died and for all health care workers who are working diligently to protect us in this time. Let us entrust our prayers to Mary, Mother of the Church and Health of the Sick.
