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April 10, 2020
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In This Update:
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- Happy Easter to All from MCC
- U.S. Bishops Issue Message of Faith for Holy Week
- USCCB Offers Prayers of Intercession During Outbreak
- Census Responses Climb in Michigan; Be Counted Today
- The Word from Lansing: This Election Season, "Civilize It"
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Happy Easter to All from MCC
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 On behalf of Michigan Catholic Conference and the Catholic bishops in Michigan, we wish everyone a most blessed Easter.
With the temporary suspension of public Masses due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak and Michigan's latest stay-at-home order, MCC understands that it is a challenging time for Catholics across the state. However, in the midst of great uncertainty and, for many, isolation, recognizing the hope of this special celebration in our faith can provide comfort and strength. To view the latest updates regarding available liturgical and spiritual resources during this time of COVID-19, visit the following diocesan websites: NOTE: On Thursday, April 9, Governor Gretchen Whitmer extended Michigan's stay-at-home order ("Stay Home, Stay Safe"), which was set to expire on Monday, April 13. The order will now remain in effect until the end of April. For those looking for the latest information regarding COVID-19, visit www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/ and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/. |
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U.S. Bishops Issue Message of Faith for Holy Week
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During this Holy Week, Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has issued a statement of hope and solidarity:
"Future generations will look back on this as the long Lent of 2020, a time when disease and death suddenly darkened the whole earth...Catholics across the United States and the world are living under quarantine, our societies shut down by the coronavirus pandemic. But we know that our Redeemer lives. Even in this extraordinary and challenging moment, we give thanks for what Jesus Christ has done for us by his life, death, and resurrection...In the heart of Jesus, pierced as he hung on the cross on Good Friday, we see the love of God for humanity, his love for each one of us...Our churches may be closed, but Christ is not quarantined and his Gospel is not in chains. Our Lord's heart remains open to every man and woman. Even though we cannot worship together, each of us can seek him in the tabernacles of our own hearts. Because he loves us, and because his love can never change, we should not be afraid, even in this time of trial and testing." Read the full message here. |
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USCCB Offers Prayers of Intercession During Outbreak
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 While people of faith are unable to come together on a wide scale, we do have the opportunity to join together virtually in prayer. Today (April 10), on this Good Friday, Archbishop Gomez will lead the Litany of the Sacred Heart of Jesus for an end to the COVID-19 pandemic. All are welcome to join; the livestream will be up at 12:00 pm EST.
Additionally, USCCB offers other prayers and spiritual resources, including links to online liturgical services. Here is a prayer of intercession to Our Lady of Guadalupe for an end to COVID-19:
"Holy Virgin of Guadalupe, Queen of the Angels and Mother of the Americas. We fly to you today as your beloved children. We ask you to intercede for us with your Son, as you did at the wedding in Cana. Pray for us, loving Mother, and gain for our nation and world, and for all our families and loved ones, the protection of your holy angels, that we may be spared the worst of this illness. For those already afflicted, we ask you to obtain the grace of healing and deliverance. Hear the cries of those who are vulnerable and fearful, wipe away their tears and help them to trust. In this time of trial and testing, teach all of us in the Church to love one another and to be patient and kind. Help us to bring the peace of Jesus to our land and to our hearts. We come to you with confidence, knowing that you truly are our compassionate mother, health of the sick and cause of our joy. Shelter us under the mantle of your protection, keep us in the embrace of your arms, help us always to know the love of your Son, Jesus. Amen." |
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Census Responses Climb; Be Counted Today
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Michigan is currently one of the top ranked states in terms of participation rates in the U.S. 2020 Census. This participation is significant, as the census numbers set the state's representation at the federal level, inform emergency preparedness efforts, and determine the federal funding that is allocated to communities for local needs. Keep up the good work, Michiganders!
Especially during this time where many are sheltering at home, individuals who have not yet responded may do so easily online with their Census ID at https://my2020census.gov/login. It only takes 10 minutes. Phone and mail response options are also available (visit www.2020Census.gov to learn more).
For those who have already responded to the survey, take the time to encourage other households to be counted. MCC offers promotional and educational resources available at www.micatholic.org/2020Census. |
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The Word from Lansing: This Election Season, "Civilize It"
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 The COVID-19 pandemic has reemphasized the importance of civility and actions that care for one another. Leading up to the November election, Catholics will have many additional opportunities to exercise civility and care as they engage in discussions that are critical for the country. This election season, the U.S. bishops encourage participation in "Civilize It," a nonpartisan campaign to treat all with dignity and kindness. The Word from Lansing for April provides additional background on this campaign and how Catholics can take the pledge of civility.
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