In a heartbreaking turn of events, 13 sisters from the Felician congregation in Livonia, Michigan, lost their lives to COVID-19 between April and June 2020. The sisters, ranging in age from 69 to 99, were a tight-knit community that had dedicated their lives to serving others.
The virus spread rapidly through the convent after being introduced by two unsuspecting aides. In the aftermath, experts pointed out that the convent’s lack of proper precautions had contributed to the devastating outcome. Given the sisters’ advanced age and vulnerability, it was a tragic reminder of the importance of taking adequate measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
The loss was deeply felt, not only by the convent but also by the wider community. It was the worst tragedy to affect a religious community since the 1918 influenza pandemic. In the face of such adversity, the surviving sisters emphasized the importance of unity, compassion, and taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. Their message served as a poignant reminder of the importance of coming together during times of crisis.
