The Church in Michigan

Assumption Mary will host a Bible study on George Frideric Handel's oratorio, Messiah, beginning Thursday, November 5, 2026. The sessions will continue into the new year and meet every Thursday.

The study uses a book by Stephen J. Binz to examine the scriptural quotations that form the musical work. Participants will study the biblical texts used in the oratorio alongside the music.

The Diocese of Saginaw reports a suggested donation of $10 for the book. Attendees are asked to register in advance to ensure enough materials are prepared.

Sacred Heart will host the Wild Goose Series for adults from November 10 to December 15, 2026. The sessions are scheduled for Tuesdays from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at the Sacred Heart Office Building in Gladwin.

The series is open to parishioners and members of the community. Those interested in attending are asked to notify the parish office by calling 989-426-7154.

The Diocese of Grand Rapids released a reflection on the upcoming November observances of All Saints and All Souls. The text notes that the solemnity of All Saints has been observed since the eighth century to honor holy men and women in heaven, including both canonized figures and those who lived unnoticed lives.

The Diocese explains that the Church calls the faithful to venerate saints and imitate their virtues to grow closer to Christ. According to the report, praying to saints is an act of intercession where the faithful ask those in heaven to join their will with God's will. This relationship is part of the Communion of Saints professed in the Creed.

The reflection also references Pope Francis' 2018 apostolic exhortation, Gaudete et exsultate, which discusses saints who accompany the faithful and those living ordinary lives. During November, Catholics typically visit churches or cemeteries to pray for the souls in purgatory.

Grand Rapids hosted two conferences for Catholic educators in mid-October. The Great Lakes Unity Conference took place from Oct. 15 to 16, bringing together more than 3,000 faith-based educators from across Michigan.

The National Catholic Educational Association held its annual Catholic Leadership Summit in Grand Rapids from Oct. 17 to 21. Bishop Walkowiak celebrated the opening Mass for the summit at the Basilica of St. Adalbert. This national event gathered Catholic educators for professional development and collaboration.

The Diocese of Grand Rapids will host Cast Into the Deep 2.0 on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at the Cathedral Square Center. The event features Father James Mallon, founder of Divine Renovation, and parish leaders.

The program begins with Mass at 8:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, followed by the main event from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Participants will receive formation and practical tools to help the diocese become more missionary and evangelizing.

Attendance is free and includes lunch. Registration is required, and the event will close once it reaches its 250 person capacity.