Detroit, MI

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The following story comes to us from team leader Michael with our team in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan:

Over a decade ago, I entered a Franciscan religious order in Fort Wayne, Indiana. It was an ascetic community that sought to live the original way of life embraced by St. Francis of Assisi. During my two-plus years there, the brothers formed deep bonds with one another. After I discerned that God was calling me elsewhere (and the order was eventually dissolved), everyone went their separate ways to follow the Lord’s will. Some got married, a few passed away, others entered different religious orders, and still others were ordained to the priesthood.

Yesterday, I had the joy of reconnecting with one of those former brothers, Fr. Lee, now a diocesan priest for the Diocese of Fort Wayne–South Bend. Father had brought a discernment group, mostly teenagers and their parents, to Detroit to visit the Solanus Casey Center (on the feast of Blessed Solanus Casey), St. Joseph Shrine, and Ss. Peter & Paul Jesuit Church. Afterwards, we met for dinner at Buddy’s Pizza.

The presence of a joyful, humble young priest wearing a traditional cassock immediately caught the attention of those around us, including the restaurant staff. He reverently led us in prayers before and after the meal, offering a quiet but powerful witness to everyone nearby.

Before we left, I gave our waitress, Kennedy, a blue Miraculous Medal and a St. Benedict crucifix on a chain. She gratefully accepted them. Although I didn’t have the opportunity to explain the history of the medal or ask about her own faith journey, I hope the joyful witness of Father and his group planted a seed in her heart.

Please join me in praying for Kennedy, and, following the example of Blessed Solanus Casey, thanking God ahead of time that He will draw her ever closer to Himself.

Praised be Jesus Christ!