DETROIT — On March 13, Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron lifted the general dispensation, calling most Catholics in the archdiocese back to Sunday Mass, if they are able to safely do so.

Catholics across the Archdiocese of Detroit shared with Detroit Catholic their experience returning to the pews — sometimes after more than a year away — and why they’ve missed the Sunday Eucharist.

While COVID-19 is still a presence in southeast Michigan, parishes have been able to reopen safely, with a focus on masking, social distancing and sanitizing, even as more Michiganians receive the COVID-19 vaccine. 

Many parishioners cited these protocols as a reason for their confidence in returning to the liturgy, citing a longing for Communion and fellowship with others.

Video by Andrew Klecezk | Detroit Catholic