Detroit, MI

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This report comes from team leader Mark with our Eastern Market team in Detroit, MI:

Bill, Denise, and I returned to Eastern Market on a sunny Saturday. Jehovah’s Witnesses were at our usual spot again, so we stood beneath a nearby shade tree. We spoke to many fallen-away Catholics and those who practice the Faith irregularly.

We spoke to Laura, a 40-something widow and mother of four. She went to Catholic school but goes to Mass only a few times a year. Laura has adopted some New Age/universalist beliefs, even though they clearly contradict the Christian Faith. She went on to talk about her appreciation for the local Blessed Solanus Casey. I then told her that the nearby Solanus Casey Center was in the middle of a novena (nine days of prayer) leading up to his feast day the following Thursday. Laura was shocked to hear this and said she would visit. She went on to talk about healing and moving on from past mistakes. I talked about the graces of the sacraments, especially Confession and Holy Communion, and how the grace of the sacraments gave me the strength to overcome habitual sin and helped me to become more holy. In the end, I led a prayer out loud for Laura, her departed husband, and their children.

Denise asked one man if he wanted a Rosary; he immediately turned and said: “Of course!” He grabbed a Rosary, then looked at our medals and asked if they were St. Christopher medals. I said no, they were Miraculous Medals and told him the background story. I also told him that day was St. Christopher’s Day, so it was interesting that he asked. He then abruptly left before we could continue the conversation.

Bill offered a free Rosary to a woman, but she declined, saying, “I have plenty.” Bill followed up, asking, “Do you pray it?” She said no. I then asked if she goes to church or prays at all; she looked sad and said no. Bill offered to pray with her, but she declined and walked away. Bill immediately said, “Let’s pray for her,” and led a prayer for her healing and her return to the Church. It was clear that she was reminded of some bad experiences, but I hope that our good intentions and invitation will win her back.

Praised be Jesus Christ!