Attached you will find an official announcement suspending public Masses in the diocese through Sunday, April 5.
Three factors have motivated my decision.
First, I received information that some people have not made use of the dispensations and that I offered and came to Mass when they really should not have. These include people who are vulnerable and people who are sick.
Second, over the weekend the CDC revised its guidelines to limit groups to 50 people and President Trump issued guidelines recommending the limit be 10 people. When I issued my last directive, the CDC guidelines specified 250 people.
Third, Monday evening the governor prohibited assemblies greater than 50 people, making it a misdemeanor to willfully violate it.
Given the supreme importance of the Eucharist, I do not take this decision lightly. In fact, I was up much of last night praying about it.
In addition, funerals should be celebrated privately with family and not open to the general public.
The Chrism Mass will be celebrated with just the regional vicars, who will take the oils back to their vicariates. If any of the vicars are not able to attend, I ask that they find another priest from the vicariate to take their place.
I also ask that churches remain open so that people may come in individually and pray privately in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.
Priest should remember to offer a private Sunday Mass for the people, and are encouraged to offer private mass daily.
It is very important that we do all we can to strengthen people’s faith during this difficult time. So, I ask you to find creative ways to be present to them. If you are aware of individuals who are homebound and may need assistance, consider picking up the phone and calling to check on them or see if they need supplies or help, or to just offer an encouraging word.
Finally, please support and encourage each other through prayer and keep in contact by phone, email or letters. Our people need a strong clergy and religious community, and we need to strengthen and encourage each other. I also ask for your prayers and support.
Thank you for your dedicated service to the people of God.
Sincerely in Christ,
+John Doerfler
Most Reverend John F. Doerfler
Bishop of Marquette