MARQUETTE — Bishop John Doerfler of the Diocese of Marquette has suspended public Masses in the diocese, which covers the Upper Peninsula, through April 5.

All Catholics are dispensed from the obligation to attend Mass during this time.

“This is a time for all of us to pray and trust in the Lord. Please spend time praying in your homes and with your families,” Bishop Doerfler said.

“During this time, there are also many ways you can support your parish by touching base with parishioners who are homebound or sick, assisting a neighbor with an errand, by encouraging and supporting each other and praying daily for everyone impacted by the pandemic and or are suffering from any illness,” he said.

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