As the immunization process has begun across the country in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Michigan bishops are addressing moral questions that have arisen about the Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines. While the three options are in various phases of use and development, the bishops have written that “it is morally permissible to receive the vaccines developed by Pfizer and Moderna”, especially in light of the “serious health risks” that “are present due to the current pandemic.” The bishops also have reaffirmed the Catholic responsibility to call for vaccines that have no connection to abortion. Read more…

Close to 5.5 million Michiganders cast their ballots in the 2020 election, selecting officials to represent them at the local, state, and national levels. Michigan voters also approved two statewide ballot proposals and weighed in on a number of local issues. To provide information about the results, MCC prepared a graphic summary of the national and statewide races that includes incumbent status, partisan affiliation, and when applicable, officials’ names or votes cast. Read more…

On October 15, the U.S. Census Bureau ended field operations for the 2020 Census. MCC is grateful to all who responded and all who worked to ensure a more accurate count was achieved. Your actions will help determine the state’s representation in Congress for the next decade, influence the way federal and state legislative lines will be drawn, inform emergency preparedness and public safety plans across Michigan, and guide how federal funding is distributed for local needs. Thank you.

This election, Michigan voters will cast ballots to determine the outcome of numerous local, state, and federal races, as well the fate of several issue proposals. In its latest FOCUS, MCC offers resources to help Catholics develop a well-formed conscience, learn from the lives of the saints, and prepare their voting choices. Read more…

In June Medical Services v. Russo, the U.S. Supreme Court narrowly ruled to strike down a Louisiana law requiring abortion doctors to have hospital admitting privileges. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) decried the decision and its disregard for the health and safety of women. At the same time, USCCB renewed its commitment to fight for justice for mothers and children. Read more…

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) commented yesterday on the death of George Floyd and the protests which have broken out in Minneapolis and in other cities in the United States. In this statement, the USCCB highlights the importance of listening to the experiences of those who have historically been disenfranchised, recognizing and calling out injustice, and taking actions against racism. Read more…

Every ten years, the United States conducts a nationwide census, or count, of its population. The 2020 Census will begin in mid-March, and all individuals living in the country as of April 1, 2020 are invited to respond by phone, by mail, and for the first time ever, online. This edition of FOCUS addresses the significance of the 2020 Census—including its impact on legislative representation and the distribution of federal funding—and encourages efforts to ensure all Michiganders are counted. Read more…

MCC’s advocacy agenda places a heavy emphasis on supporting policies that positively impact vulnerable persons and others in need. From protecting the Children’s Clothing Allowance to expanding Medicaid coverage, to weatherization assistance and prioritizing marriage in state assistance programs, MCC is an advocate for the poor and vulnerable. This edition of FOCUS touches on these subjects while highlighting the Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit for low-income workers. Read more…

For decades, Catholic agencies have partnered with the State of Michigan to place children in loving homes. Despite their exemplary work in this area, governments and other hostile organizations have sought to push Catholic adoption and foster care programs—in Michigan and across the country—out of the public realm. MCC’s latest FOCUS publication delves into current religious freedom challenges for these agencies and ways the Catholic Church is responding. Read more…

Upon learning of the death of Sr. Mary Maurita Sengelaub, RSM, a member of the Michigan Catholic Conference Board of Directors from 1977–1983, MCC President and CEO Paul Long offers a brief reflection on her “full life dedicated to the Lord.” Read more…