Peter Dederichs combined Venetian Renaissance and Pisan Romanesque architecture to construct the Old St. Mary’s Church in Detroit in 1885. It is the third oldest Roman Catholic church in the city. It serves as a spiritual oasis for the community, attracting business people, government officials, court employees, and tourists in its Daily Mass.
Architectural Grandeur
The church is built of red brick with Venetian embellishments in the Romanesque style. Twin towers emphasize the west exterior, framing a huge rose window. Testimonial plaques are displayed at the back of the church, attributing cures and miracles to the power of worship.
It features three grotto’s that depict religious events, such as the Baptism of Jesus. The 10 polished granite columns that separate the center and side aisles are a remarkable element of the church’s design. For a panoramic tour of the church’s interior, click here.
Serving the Community
The church holds a Daily Mass at 12:15 am, with Latin Mass at 8:30 am, and 10:00 am. Their choir sings Gregorian chants for the 10 am Latin Mass every Sunday. Regular concerts feature various composers and musical arrangements.
In addition to their regular masses and events of worship, they partake in other activities that help support the church community. They conduct community-orientated events throughout the year, along with RICA classes, Religious Education for children aged 6 to 14, and giving meals to the homeless.
Moreover, they offer private tours and tour groups to allow visitors to explore the establishment’s rich history. Hence, you can make the most of the opportunity to be awestruck by the grandeur of Old St. Mary’s Church in Detroit.
