The Diocese of Grand Rapids continues to monitor the local and regional situation with COVID-19 (coronavirus).
UPDATE AS OF MARCH 31, 2022 –
Local and statewide data continue to show a diminishing spread of COVID-19 in our communities. This is hopeful news, especially as we approach Holy Week and Easter.
Bishop Walkowiak, in collaboration with his advisors, has decided that the present requirement to have a designated socially-distanced seating section in each parish will be left to each pastor’s discretion.
Las estadísticas locales y estatales siguen mostrando una disminución en la transmisión de COVID-19 en nuestras comunidades. Esta es una noticia alentadora, especialmente cuando nos acercamos a la Semana Santa y a la Pascua.
El Obispo Walkowiak, en colaboración con sus asesores, ha decidido que el requisito actual de tener una sección designada de asientos socialmente distanciados en las parroquias se dejará a la discreción de cada párroco.
UPDATE AS OF MARCH 1, 2022 –
On Friday, February 25 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its guidance on COVID-19 community transmission levels and the appropriate mitigation measures to take as we begin to live with this virus as an endemic. Local and statewide data indicate that virus rates are rapidly dropping and will continue to move in that direction.
After reviewing the data and the updated guidance from the CDC, the Diocese of Grand Rapids offers these revised guidelines:
- Signs may be removed from the church regarding the request to wear masks.
- Ministers of Holy Communion do not need to wear a mask during distribution.
- Due to the vulnerable population served, unvaccinated ministers who bring holy Communion to the homebound must wear a mask.
The requirement to leave at least one section of the church as socially-distanced seating where mask-wearing is required remains in place through March 31.
UPDATE AS OF FEB. 24, 2022 – Designated section in our churches for social distancing – EXTENDED
In order to make Mass accessible to as many as possible, parishes will keep at least one area of the church designated as seating where social distancing and mask wearing are required through the end of March. All parishioners are encouraged to wear a mask while attending Mass.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to parishioners (English | Español)
UPDATE AS OF JAN. 20, 2022 – Designated section in our churches for social distancing
In order to make Mass accessible to as many as possible, by the weekend of Jan. 22-23 pastors of our parishes are required to create a section within each church where social distancing can be practiced, if the church doesn’t currently have this space set aside already. Each pastor may determine the best way to designate this section in the church. Parishioners choosing to sit in a socially-distanced section are required to wear masks. This directive is in effect until Feb. 28, at which time it will be re-evaluated.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to parishioners (English | Español)
UPDATE AS OF DEC. 22, 2021 – Masks strongly recommended as we enter the Christmas season
In light of rising COVID case numbers and increased attendance at Mass during this season, the Diocese of Grand Rapids is once again strongly encouraging that masks be worn by parishioners and guests while attending Mass. Your cooperation in this regard will ensure that we can welcome as many as possible to our upcoming liturgical celebrations.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to parishioners (English | Español)
UPDATE AS OF AUG. 20, 2021 – Masks strongly recommended during Masses and other indoor public gatherings in our churches:
As of today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has classified the risk level for all but one county in the diocese (Osceola) as ‘substantial’ or ‘high’ in terms of community transmission of COVID-19. In either classification, the CDC recommends that all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask in public indoor settings. [View data here]
It is strongly recommended that parishioners and guests wear a mask during Masses and other indoor public gatherings in our churches.
Decisions on specific COVID-19 mitigation strategies for each parish remain with the pastor at this time.
Parishioners also are strongly encouraged to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, if able. [For resources addressing moral and ethical concerns, please see the March 5th update below]
Vaccine self-scheduling is available through the following links:
https://vaccinatewestmi.com/register/(multiple locations)
https://www.mercyhealth.com/health-and-wellness/covid-19/schedule-vaccine (Mercy Health)
UPDATE AS OF JUNE 23, 2021 – Guidance as Michigan opens to full capacity:
There is nothing ordinary about what has transpired over these past 15 months. Our pastors and their staff members have worked tirelessly to nourish the spiritual lives of parishioners while also safeguarding the physical health of their communities. Thank you for your understanding and patience.
As of June 22, the State of Michigan has lifted its broad epidemic orders. This is positive news, and we are hopeful that the worst of this pandemic is behind us. Daily numbers of new cases have been falling steadily. Positivity rates statewide are below 3% and have decreased 88% since their high on April 8.
Understanding that parishioners who are homebound or in long-term care facilities may be at increased risk of contracting COVID-19, ministers who are not fully vaccinated and bringing holy Communion to individuals in these groups must wear a mask. Other than this norm, the Diocese of Grand Rapids is terminating any remaining particular law in response to COVID-19, effective immediately. This decision aligns with guidance from public health officials and is supported by the data mentioned above.
Moving forward, COVID-19 directives in our parishes will be determined by the pastor and his staff, recognizing that situations differ locally across the 11 counties of our diocese. CDC recommendations for communities of faith may be found on their website.
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful/Preguntas Frecuentes
UPDATE AS OF MAY 14, 2021 – Updated guidance for liturgical worship:
In keeping with the most recent CDC guidance, the Diocese of Grand Rapids is revising diocesan directives regarding masks and social distancing in its parishes. These directives are in effect as soon as parishes are able to implement them. Please be mindful that there may be variations across parishes during this period of transition.
Masks are not required during liturgical worship. It is recommended that individuals who are not fully vaccinated follow CDC guidance and wear a mask out of respect for fellow parishioners. Pastors have been asked to set aside space to accommodate for social distancing for whom this remains an important safety measure. Please honor the safety and comfort of those around you and distance as you are able.
The dispensation to attend Mass remains in effect for those who have health reasons or other excusing factors. Please speak with your pastor about any specific questions you may have regarding the obligation to attend Mass.
UPDATE FOR MARCH 5 – Updated statement regarding the COVID-19 vaccines:
Poster – COVID-19 Vaccines: Answers to Five Commonly Asked Questions
Michigan Bishops’ statement regarding Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine | Declaración de los obispos de Michigan sobre la vacuna COVID-19 de Johnson & Johnson
Note on the morality of using some anti-Covid-19 vaccines from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith English | Español
Answers to Key Ethical Questions About COVID-19 Vaccines (USCCB):
English and Español
For additional vaccine information and resources, click here.
UPDATE AS OF MARCH 5, 2021 regarding Faith Formation opportunities:
All Faith Formation opportunities in the diocese are able to resume in person under specific conditions including screening, masking, social distancing, and contact tracing, as well as limitations to the number of people who may gather indoors at one time. Please contact your parish for more information.
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful/Preguntas Frecuentes
UPDATE FOR FEB. 12, 2021 regarding returning to Mass; extension of dispensation for those unable to attend in person:
Bishop Walkowiak invites Catholics who are healthy and able to return to Mass during Lent; extends dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass until further notice for those who are unable to attend in person due to health reasons or other factors.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to the Faithful: (English | Español)
OVERVIEW: Diocesan directives for public Masses (English | Español)
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful/Preguntas Frecuentes
UPDATE FOR DEC. 18, 2020 – Statement regarding the COVID-19 vaccines:
Michigan Bishops’ statement on ethical concerns regarding COVID-19 vaccines | Los obispos de Michigan abordan las preocupaciones éticas relacionadas a las vacunas contra el COVID-19
Answers to Key Ethical Questions About COVID-19 Vaccines (USCCB):
English and Spanish
UPDATE FOR DEC. 15, 2020 – Extension of dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass through Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2021:
Bishop Walkowiak has extended the dispensation for all Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17.
- Public Masses and the celebration of the sacraments continue with the appropriate COVID-19 mitigation strategies (English | Español) in place. Those who are able to attend Mass should return, remembering that our physical presence at the Eucharistic table is irreplaceable. These mitigation strategies need to be followed to ensure public Masses remain available.
- This dispensation is granted broadly to ensure that anyone who needs to stay home can do so in good conscience. If you are homebound, please contact your parish to inquire about the ability to have Communion brought to you.
- While this dispensation is in effect, all baptized Catholics are reminded of their obligation to keep the Lord’s Day holy. Mass from the Cathedral of Saint Andrew will continue to be televised Sundays at 10 a.m. on FOX 17 and livestreamed on the diocesan website and Facebook page.
El Obispo Walkowiak está extendiendo la dispensa para todos los católicos en el territorio de la Diócesis de Grand Rapids de su obligación de asistir a la misa dominical hasta el miércoles de ceniza, 17 de febrero. (Detalles)
UPDATE FOR DEC. 14, 2020 – USCCB statement regarding ethical concerns of new COVID-19 vaccines:
USCCB statement regarding ethical concerns on the new COVID-19 vaccines | Obispos Presidentes de los Comités de Actividades Pro-Vida y Doctrina abordan las preocupaciones éticas relacionadas a las vacunas contra el COVID-19
UPDATE FOR NOV. 16, 2020 – Extension of dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass through Jan. 4, 2021.
Given the current situation and our restricted capacities for Mass, Bishop Walkowiak is extending the dispensation for all Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through Jan. 4.
- Public Masses and the celebration of the sacraments will continue with the appropriate COVID-19 mitigation strategies in place: the required wearing of masks, proper social distancing, and cleaning according to CDC guidelines. These mitigation strategies must be followed to ensure public Masses remain available.
- Those who are able to attend Mass should return, remembering that our physical presence at the Eucharistic table is irreplaceable.
- Pastors will be making decisions about parish programming in accordance with State epidemic orders issued Nov. 15. Please check with your parish for additional information.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to the Faithful: (English | Español)
Read Superintendent Faber’s letter to families regarding the plan for continuing instruction (English & Español)
OVERVIEW: Diocesan directives for public Masses (English | Español)
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful/Preguntas Frecuentes
UPDATE FOR OCT. 5, 2020 – Bishop Walkowiak announces ability to open churches more widely; extends dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass through Nov. 23:
Effective immediately, Bishop Walkowiak has announced the ability to open churches in the diocese more widely for Masses, providing guidance to pastors allowing them to admit to Mass the number of people they are able to safely accommodate while maintaining proper social distancing.
In addition, he has extended through Nov. 23, the dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass. To safely maintain public Masses with an increased seating capacity, parishioners need to continue to follow diocesan guidelines including wearing a face covering, practicing social distancing, and frequently washing their hands.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to the Faithful: (English | Español)
OVERVIEW: Diocesan directives for public Masses (English | Español)
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful/Preguntas Frecuentes
UPDATE FOR OCT. 3, 2020 on Michigan Supreme Court decision regarding Gov. Whitmer’s emergency powers:
At this time, nothing in the diocesan COVID-19 guidelines has changed. Until the Oct. 2 Michigan Supreme Court ruling is interpreted and authoritatively unpacked, the Diocese of Grand Rapids endorses the Governor’s current executive orders.
Overview of current diocesan directives for public Masses: (English | Español)
UPDATE FOR AUG. 24, 2020 – Extension of the dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass through Oct. 18:
Bishop Walkowiak announces the extension of the dispensation for all Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through Oct. 18.
The dispensation is granted broadly to ensure that anyone who needs to stay home to protect the common good can do so confidently, in good conscience. But those who are truly able to attend Mass should begin to return, remembering that we are transformed by being joined to Christ in the Eucharist. Bishop Walkowiak is confident in the safety precautions our pastors and parish staffs have implemented to safeguard the physical health of the faithful while attending Mass: the required wearing of masks, proper social distancing, and cleaning according to CDC guidelines.
El obispo Walkowiak ha extendido la dispensa para todos los católicos del territorio de la Diócesis de Grand Rapid de la obligación de atender la misa dominical hasta el 18 de octubre.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to the Faithful: (English | Español)
OVERVIEW: Diocesan directives for resuming public Masses (English | Español)
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful/Preguntas Frecuentes
Spiritual resources during COVID-19
UPDATE FOR JULY 23, 2020 – Catholic schools office releases return to school plan “Living Our Mission in Today’s Reality”:
Read the plan in English and en Español at Catholicschools4u.org.
UPDATE FOR JULY 22, 2020 – Extension of the dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass through Sept. 7:
Bishop Walkowiak announces the extension of the dispensation for all Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through Sept. 7 (Labor Day).
The dispensation is granted broadly to ensure that anyone who needs to stay home to protect the common good can do so confidently, in good conscience. But those who are truly able to attend Mass should remember that we are transformed by being joined to Christ in the Eucharist. Only a weighty reason should keep us from being sanctified through participation in and our reception of Christ’s body and blood.
El obispo Walkowiak ha extendido la dispensa para todos los católicos del territorio de la Diócesis de Grand Rapid de la obligación de atender la misa dominical hasta el 7 de septiembre, Día del Trabajo (Labor Day).
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful/Preguntas Frecuentes
Spiritual resources during COVID-19
UPDATE FOR JULY 2, 2020 – Bishop Walkowiak announces $1 million in COVID-19 tuition assistance for Catholic school families:
Learn more | Apply Now
UPDATE FOR JUNE 23, 2020 – Extension of the dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass through July 31:
Bishop Walkowiak announces the extension of the dispensation for all Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through July 31.
The dispensation is granted broadly to ensure that anyone who needs to stay home to protect the common good can do so confidently, in good conscience. But those who are truly able to attend Mass should remember that we are transformed by being joined to Christ in the Eucharist. Only a weighty reason should keep us from being sanctified through participation in and our reception of Christ’s body and blood.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to the Faithful: (English | Español)
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful/Preguntas Frecuentes
Spiritual resources during COVID-19
UPDATE FOR MAY 19, 2020 regarding resuming public worship:
We are pleased to announce that beginning Friday, May 29, parishes in the Diocese of Grand Rapids may resume public Masses and liturgies if they are prepared.
Reopening will proceed carefully and in phases. Detailed guidance has been provided to our pastors. The logistics for how these directives will be implemented will be different for each parish. Please watch your parish website or social media for up to date information, or call the parish office.
OVERVIEW: Diocesan directives for resuming public Masses (English | Español)
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to the Faithful: (English | Español)
UPDATE FOR MAY 8, 2020:
Mindful of the current circumstances and to continue our efforts to protect the common good, the Diocese of Grand Rapids has extended its suspension of ALL public Masses and other liturgical and devotional services through May 28, 2020. The dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass remains in place through June 30.
While we are not in the clear yet, we want to begin to consider what reopening our churches for public Masses may look like. The date on which public worship is restored will depend upon developments in public health guidance and our confidence that resuming public Masses will not pose an undue risk. Reopening will proceed carefully and in phases.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to the Faithful for additional information:
(English | Español)
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful/Preguntas Frecuentes Sobre COVID-19
UPDATE FOR APRIL 24, 2020:
Dear Friends in Christ,
I know how extremely difficult this last month without receiving the Eucharist has been. I thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate these uncharted waters. While I wish we could completely reopen and resume our normal lives our Catholic duty is to protect the common good by not spreading a potentially deadly disease.
Following consultation with doctors in West Michigan, the Diocese of Grand Rapids has extended its cancellation of ALL public Masses and all other liturgical and devotional services through May 17, 2020. This order is in harmony with Governor Whitmer’s updated stay-at-home order.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to the Faithful (English | Español)
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful
UPDATE FOR APRIL 8, 2020:
We continue to see the grave impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our cities, in our state, and across the world. Mindful of the current circumstances and in order to continue our efforts to protect the common good, Bishop Walkowiak announces that the Diocese of Grand Rapids has extended the cancellation of all public Masses and other liturgical and devotional services, effective immediately, through April 30, 2020.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to the Faithful (English | Español)
UPDATE FOR APRIL 2, 2020:
Today, Governor Whitmer issued an executive order declaring Michigan schools closed for the remainder of the school year. In accord with the order, Catholic schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids will remain closed through the end of the academic year to ensure the continued safety of our students, teachers, and their families.
A letter was issued to all parents and staff in Catholic schools from Superintendent David Faber.
Click here or visit Catholicschools4u to read the letter (English and Español).
UPDATE FOR MARCH 23, 2020:
Today, Governor Whitmer issued an executive order requiring Michiganders to stay home, outside of critical functions, for the next three weeks.
Bishop Walkowiak issues the following directives for parishes and schools in the diocese, effective at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, in harmony with these government guidelines. For Frequently Asked Questions, click here.
- All public Masses and all other liturgical and devotional services through Easter Monday, April 13, in the Diocese of Grand Rapids are canceled.
- All Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids are granted a dispensation from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through April 13.
- Further information on the liturgies of Holy Week and Easter will be forthcoming.
- Sunday 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.
- Catholics are encouraged to make a spiritual Communion, pray the rosary, or meditate on Sacred Scripture to keep holy the Lord’s Day.
- Funerals are to be celebrated without Mass with only immediate family members present, limiting those gathered to 10.
- Alternately, a committal service at the cemetery may be celebrated outdoors, with the appropriate social distancing guidelines in place, with a memorial Mass to be celebrated at a later date.
- Individual confessions at the parish will remain available during regularly scheduled times.
- Individual confessions will remain available on the evening of Thursday, March 26th from 5-8 p.m. as previously scheduled with due precautions being taken. Confessions should not take place in the confessional and should be set up in the main church with background music to protect privacy.
- Parish baptisms and weddings are postponed until a later date. Please contact your pastor in a situation where the death of a loved one appears imminent.
- Holy Communion is only available as Viaticum.
- Confirmation Masses through Monday, April 13, have been canceled and will be rescheduled.
- All Catholic Schools in the diocese remain closed in accordance with the Governor’s order. All schools will be closed to the public as of 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24. Essential staff may access the school building to provide food and remote learning programs and distribution with administrator approval.
- Faith Formation classes are suspended until Tuesday, April 14 in accordance with the Governor’s order. Plans should be made to deliver religious instruction curriculum to families if possible.
- Parish offices are closed to the public. Only essential staff such as a parish business manager may report as needed.
- The diocesan offices at Cathedral Square are closed. Diocesan staff members are working from home to the extent possible and can be reached via email.
Frequently asked questions for the Faithful
Spiritual resources during COVID-19
These guidelines are in addition to those issued by Bishop Walkowiak earlier in March. These measures are intended to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The Diocese of Grand Rapids will continue to be in consultation with the Kent County Health Department and other state and federal health officials. Further guidelines will be issued upon their recommendations.
As people of faith, let us pray for all affected by this virus, especially those who are sick or who have died as well as for all health care workers who are working diligently to protect us in this time.
Additional factual information regarding COVID-19 may be found on the following websites:
Kent County Health Department (or your local health department website)
State of Michigan
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
UPDATE FOR MARCH 17, 2020:
In compliance with Governor Whitmer’s March 17 executive order prohibiting all gatherings of more than 50 people in a shared indoor space, the Diocese of Grand Rapids has temporarily suspended ALL public Masses and all other liturgical and devotional services, effective immediately, through Palm Sunday, April 5, 2020.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s letter to the Faithful (English | Español)
With this suspension, all Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids are granted a dispensation from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through April 5. Baptisms, weddings, and funerals may continue to be celebrated outside of Mass with no more than 50 people in attendance. Our March 26th evening of penance, “The Light is ON for You” as well as individual confession times may continue as scheduled.
UPDATE FOR MARCH 13, 2020:
The celebration of the Eucharist is the source and summit of Christian life. We enshrine the divine law to give praise and worship to God on the Lord’s Day by the obligation to participate at Mass. We are however, now in the midst of a pandemic which calls for extraordinary measures. Promotion of the common good is one of the pillars of Catholic social teaching and Catholic life.
New state guidelines and executive orders were issued within the past 24 hours which have prompted our new guidelines:
- Gov. Whitmer has banned all large gatherings over 250 people until Sunday, April 5.
- Gov. Whitmer has closed all K-12 schools beginning Monday, March 16 through Sunday, April 5.
Bishop Walkowiak issues the following directives for parishes and schools in the diocese, effective immediately, in harmony with these government guidelines:
UPDATED PARISH & SCHOOL GUIDELINES (MARCH 13):
- 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.
- Sunday 10 a.m. Mass will continue to be livestreamed from the Cathedral of Saint Andrew. It can be viewed on FOX 17, on the diocesan website or on our Facebook page. Ver Misa Diaria (EWTN) | Calendario
- While weekend Masses are canceled, 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.
- Weekday Masses, where less than 100 people are gathered, should continue in accord with the guidelines from March 11, 2020 (see below).
- Visits to the sick and homebound should continue. Normal cold/flu season guidelines should be followed.
- Funeral Masses may be celebrated.
- Confirmation Masses through Wednesday, April 1 have been canceled and will be rescheduled.
- All Catholic Schools in the diocese are closed in accordance with the Governor’s order. (see above)
- Faith Formation classes should be suspended until Monday, April 6 in accordance with the Governor’s order. Plans should be made to deliver religious instruction curriculum to families if possible.
- Any event at a parish/school 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 at the organizer’s/pastor’s discretion.
- The March 26th evening of penance, “The Light is ON for You” should take place as scheduled. Any other communal penance services should be modified accordingly.
- Meetings for the Our Shepherds – Our Future Capital Campaign will be postponed at this time. Updates will be communicated as we receive them.
- If you are sick, please stay home.
These guidelines are in addition to those issued by Bishop Walkowiak on March 11 and March 12, 2020 (see below). These measures are intended to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The Diocese of Grand Rapids will continue to be in consultation with the Kent County Health Department and other state and federal health officials. Further guidelines will be issued upon their recommendations.
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 during this time.
UPDATE FOR MARCH 12, 2020:
In response to recommendations from the State of Michigan, Bishop Walkowiak is issuing the following guidelines for parishes and schools in the diocese, effective immediately:
PARISH & SCHOOL GUIDELINES:
- Daily and weekend Masses will continue as scheduled until further notice with the guidelines from March 11, 2020 (see below) in place.
- Confirmation Masses will continue as scheduled as outlined above until further notice. Plans are being made to potentially offer a livestream of the Confirmation Mass for family and friends who may not be able to attend due to health concerns.
- If you are sick, please stay home from Mass. The 10 a.m. Mass from the cathedral is televised on FOX 17, and on the diocesan website and Facebook page every week.
- Any other parish or school events 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 singular indoor space.
- All events in the Wege Conference Center at Cathedral Square Center with more than 100 attendees are postponed or canceled for the time being.
- Catholic schools in the diocese are to remain open based on recommendations from the Kent County Health Department. It is not in the public interest to close schools at this time.
- Faith Formation classes should proceed as normal, ensuring that less than 100 people are gathered in a single space indoors and with the normal cold/flu season guidelines and cancellation procedures in place.
These measures are intended to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The Diocese of Grand Rapids will continue to be in consultation with the Kent County Health Department and other state and federal health officials. Further guidelines will be issued upon their recommendations. As people of faith, we pray for all affected by this virus, including those who have died.
UPDATE FOR MARCH 11, 2020:
Due to the first confirmed cases in the state of Michigan and given that many of our parishioners are considered high risk for contracting the virus, Bishop Walkowiak has issued the following guidelines for implementation at all Masses, effective immediately, until further notice:
- The distribution of the Precious Blood of Christ is to be temporarily suspended at all Masses.
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- If you are a parishioner with a gluten sensitivity, please contact your pastor to discuss options.
- It is left to the discretion of each communicant as to how they would like to receive the Body of Christ.
- Any Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion who feels uncomfortable distributing Communion should be allowed to temporarily step down from ministry.
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- Hand sanitizer should be used by all Ordinary and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion before and after distributing the Eucharist.
- The Sign of Peace is to be exchanged without physical contact. Parishioners are encouraged to use some other gesture instead. (e.g., a nod of the head, a smile or a spoken greeting).
- Parishioners should not hold hands during the Our Father. Although holding hands is a beautiful expression of people united in prayer, the gesture is not envisioned in any Church documents governing liturgy.
- If your parish encourages a greeting with physical contact before Mass, that practice should be temporarily suspended or modified to not include physical contact.
- Holy Water fonts will be emptied and cleaned. They should remain empty at this time.
- During the celebration of confirmation, Bishop Walkowiak will not be shaking hands with the newly confirmed following the anointing with Chrism.
In addition, we want to remind parishioners of the following:
- If you are exhibiting flu-like or cold symptoms, please stay home from Mass. Your Sunday obligation is waived under these circumstances. We invite you to watch the 10 a.m. televised Sunday Mass from the Cathedral of Saint Andrew.
- In addition to the above, parishioners and parishes should continue to follow normal cold/flu season guidelines.
- Please pray for those who are suffering and those who have died from the virus, as well as their families.
We will adopt local, state, and health authority recommendations and provide additional directives if needed.
Additional information regarding COVID-19 can be found on the following websites:
Kent County Health Department (or your local health department website)
State of Michigan
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Prevention, prudence and prayer
Guidelines for cold and flu prevention
How good hand hygiene prevents illness (Centers for Disease Control)
Responding as Catholics using the “Three P’s” (Bishop Caggiano of Bridgeport)
Contact:
Annalise Laumeyer, director of communications
alaumeyer@grdiocese.org | 616-551-5629
The Diocese of Grand Rapids:
Facebook: /DioceseofGrandRapids
Instagram/Twitter: @GRdiocese
YouTube: @dogrcomm
THIS PAGE IS BEING UPDATED AS NEW INFORMATION BECOMES AVAILABLE
