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.