Since 1893, the Holy Spirit Fathers [Spiritans] have faithfully served Old St. Mary’s Church. The Spiritan Fathers continue to exercise their rule of Faith by making themselves advocates, supporters, and defenders of the weak and little ones.
Before she gained the title “Old”, St. Mary’s was known for many years as the “Church of the Grottos.” There are three: the grotto of Gethesemane, depicting Christ’s agony in the Garden of Olives; the Baptismal Grotto, depicting Christ’s Baptism in the Jordan River by John the Baptist complete with running water; and the Lourdes Grotto which is a replica of that French shrine.
Old St. Mary’s is a spritual oasis in Downtown Detroit. Daily Mass at 12:15 attracts the business community, government, court employees, and out of town visitors.
