What an incredible start to our 50th Anniversary Celebration. “St. Blase Night” at Comerica Park was not only a huge success but a great time as well. It is not possible to say enough about our choirs. Steve Petrunak and our music ministry made us incredibly proud as they were spot-on in singing our national anthem. We received numerous unsolicited compliments from folks in the stands. Many remarked how amazing it was that they could hear and understand every word. Some even asked where we were located – – so hopefully we have a few visitors join with us for worship in the next few weeks. Yes, evangelization can be fun! The entire evening was an experience that will remain for years in our hearts and memories. The Tigers cooperated giving us great pitching that resulted in a 1-0 shutout over the Minnesota Twins. The only run of the night came from a Justin Upton homerun. It landed about ten feet in front of Mary and I – – unfortunately we were on our way back to our seats with several hot dogs in our hands!
Special thanks to Stacey Ziarko for all her hard work in making “St. Blase Night” at Comerica Park go from a dream to a reality. Appreciation is also due to our Business Manager, Tim Doppel, for arranging bus transportation and handling the rally towels. Finally, of course, congratulations and appreciation are extended to Steve Petrunak and our entire music ministry. It is easy to forget how blessed we are to have this quality of music to enhance our prayer and worship each week. This first event to celebrate our 50 years was a living proclamation and a irmation of every word in our parish mission statement.
Today our parish participates in the Missionary Cooperation Plan. We WELCOME FATHER JAMES O’NEIL, C.S.B., who will be with us to preach at all the liturgies. He will also inform us of the work of the Basilian Fathers who serve the poor and needy in Latin America. Some with “west-side” connections might be familiar with the Basilians insofar as they also operate Catholic Central High School. Please be generous in supporting this year’s missionary e ort and keep the Basilian Fathers and all missionaries in your prayers.