Thirteen sisters from the Felician congregation in Livonia, Michigan, died from COVID-19 between April and June 2020.
Most were aged 69 to 99. The virus spread rapidly after being unknowingly brought in by two aides.
Experts later criticized the lack of proper precautions, especially given the nuns’ vulnerability.
The tragic loss, which also impacted the convent’s daily operations, was the worst religious community tragedy since the 1918 influenza pandemic. Survivors urged the importance of masks and unity during the crisis.
LAST NIGHT AT THE GRAND OLE OPRY… something bigger than a concert happened. Carrie Underwood didn’t just sing—she brought ghosts to life. From the soft ache of Patsy Cline’s voice to the fiery power of Reba’s, and finally a soul-shaking version of Martina McBride’s “A Broken Wing,” Carrie didn’t perform—she channeled. The room was still. People wiped their eyes. Grown men cried. Even the legends watching from backstage couldn’t hold it together. And when Carrie hit that final note, her own tears started to fall. It felt like the stage became hallowed ground. Like the women who came before her were right there, standing with her, lifting her up. Nobody left that night the same.
