Bishop Gruss Encourages Faithful to Continue to Proclaim Respect for Life As March for Life Related Events to Take Place Locally

Photo above is from the March for Life in Saginaw on Jan. 24, 2020

My Dear Friends in Christ,

     As we anticipate the planning of upcoming events, the challenges of Covid-19 continue to impact our ability to proceed as usual.  Today, I am announcing that the pilgrimage to the Annual March for Life in Washington, D.C. in January 2021 has been canceled for the safety of our youth and adults that plan to participate. Due to the nature of the event being a very large gathering of people from many parts of the country, social distancing and safety measures are nearly impossible for us to ensure.

     However, I am pleased to announce that the Chancery Offices of Youth Ministry and Respect Life have created an alternative plan, with safety in mind due to Covid-19 restrictions, so that our mission of proclaiming respect for life continues despite the circumstances. Our focus remains on reaching the youth throughout the diocese, but we believe these events will impact people of all ages.  The following events are planned for January 2021.

      9 Days for Life will begin on January 21, 2021 with a Novena for Life and continue daily with prayers, novenas, rosaries and more. Each day podcasts will be shared featuring conversations with local clergy, community experts and youth on important respect life topics. All are invited to participate online, in small groups and via live streaming.  The 9 Days for Life will conclude with a special Mass at the Cathedral on January 29, 2021. 

     The Local March for Life will be held on Friday, January 22, 2021 with the option for parishes to host a "March in Place" at their location simultaneously, since social distancing will limit the number of attendees in the Cathedral area. Together we will raise our voices and prayers in the protection of the sanctity of human life.  At the conclusion of the March for Life the Mass for the Legal Protection of the Unborn will be celebrated (live streamed) at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption.

      More details are forthcoming. If you would like more information or are interested in assisting with the planning of these special events, you may contact Mark Graveline at 989-797-6639 or Lori Becker at 989-797-6652. 

    May our hope and faith in the Lord continue to strengthen and expand the gifts we have received from the Holy Spirit.  And, may we share our commitment to upholding the dignity of human life with all. 

With peace and love in Christ,

Bishop Robert D. Gruss
Bishop of Saginaw

View More Photos from the March for Life in Saginaw (Jan. 24, 2020)