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.
Read Bishop Walkowiak’s 8/24/20 letter and additional diocesan COVID-19 response information at grdiocese.org