Joint Statements

On October 21, 2020, media reported on a 20-second video clip from a Spanish-language documentary film about Pope Francis. In the film, the Holy Father was shown stating, as translated into English, “Homosexual people have a right to be part of a family. They’re children of God and have a right to a family. Nobody should be thrown out or be made miserable because of it. What we have to create is a [convivencia civil]. That way they are legally covered.” Later reporting indicated this video was compiled from several separate segments in a 2019 interview the Holy Father gave to a Mexican journalist. This footage had never before been played publicly. Yesterday, we became aware of several clarifications offered at the direction of the Holy Father through his representatives…

JOINT STATEMENT: THE SPIRITUAL LEADERS OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESES OF SIOUX FALLS AND RAPID CITY [caption id="attachment_48" align="alignleft" width="400"] Very Reverend Michel Mulloy & Bishop Donald E. DeGrood[/caption] Suspension of all public Masses due to the COVID-19/Coronavirus pandemic March 17, 2020 Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Our national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, relying on data that shows the real progression of the COVID-19 virus, has now updated its recommendation to limit gatherings to ten people.  The recommendation limits the potential for transmission of the virus.  Ultimately, the recommendation is rooted in serving the common good, including those most vulnerable to the virus and its devastating effects on the body. Mindful of our own call as Catholics to seek the common good, we have directed that all…

JOINT STATEMENT: THE SPIRITUAL LEADERS OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESES OF SIOUX FALLS AND RAPID CITY [caption id="attachment_48" align="alignleft" width="400"] Very Reverend Michel Mulloy & Bishop Donald E. DeGrood[/caption] Dispensation from the Obligation to attend Sunday Masses due to the COVID-19/Coronavirus until further notice Earlier this week and in our respective capacities as spiritual leaders of the two dioceses in South Dakota, we announced measures for limiting the spread of illness during Masses. These statements were circulated within parishes and can be accessed on the two diocesan websites. With public health officials providing additional guidance this week that has led to the cancellation of sporting and cultural events, we write to offer further clarification and guidance. While the Church has not been asked by government officials at this time to…