St. Alphonsus-St. Clement Parish

Where We’re At - August 18, 2024 - by Fr. Terry Kerner, Administrator/Moderator

The August 11 10:00 am Mass was a joyful experience for St. Alphonsus-St. Clement Parish. It was estimated that around 500 people attended Mass and appreciated the “hidden treasurers” of our nearly one hundred-year-old-church building. It was reported this was the largest participation by the “Mass Mob” in the last 4 years. They were treated to the best!
Certainly, the Eucharist was the reason for gathering with Fr. Greg leading the celebration along with the Knights of Columbus, who offered their reverence and ritual to the Mass. Our organist, Adam Morency, so ably supported the congregation in song and meditation throughout. The many ushers, eucharistic ministers, servers and lector all enhanced the liturgy and no doubt brought back memories of the days when the church was always much fuller and vibrant. The parishioners, who served as greeters and guides before and after Mass, offered the grace of their hospitality to the many visitors walking through the doors. The women and men, who shared generously, refreshments and fellowship, in Fr. Yagley Hall, added to the conviction that our parishioners sincerely welcome visitors, not only for the special mass, but for weekends in the future. Not to be forgotten are the parking attendants, who directed folks and filled every single spot available.
Events like last Sunday do not just happen. They demand meticulous planning and effort. We have to thank the parishioners, who spent hours on their knees, fixing and tightening pews and kneelers, cleaning and dusting and picking up papers on the grounds. All of this just to make things look and feel just right for our visitors. And they did just that!
None of last Sunday’s “Mass Mob” or the previous Sunday’s Homecoming celebration could have happened without extraordinary planning and attention to the many details. We have David Katona to thank for all the motivation and organization over the past few weeks. The Esper family generously donated the property we have occupied for the past 172 years. David is the fifth generation Esper. It is quite apparent that he carries that same generous spirit and love for the Faith that his family has endowed for us. When you see David, give him your thanks!

Click below to watch a short video summary of the Mass Mob.

Detroit Mass Mob LIX: St. Alphonsus from Detroit Mass Mob on Vimeo.

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St. Alphonsus Heritage Garden - Preliminary concept - July 2023 - By Fr. Terry Kerner

Click HERE for the latest update.