DETROIT – The congregation at Ss. Peter and Paul Jesuit Church in Downtown Detroit is celebrating 175 years.
Saints Peter and Paul Jesuit Church was built in 1844 in Downtown Detroit on the corner of St. Antoine and Jefferson Avenue.
The congregation celebrated with a special service, guests, and a block party. Current pastor Gary Wright said what the church has accomplished in the last 175 years inspires him. The church helped create Matrix Human Services, one of the largest social service organizations in Detroit.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the church fell on hard times and was on the verge of closing -- but it’s still there. Still helping people through the Pope Francis Center, a day program that runs Monday through Saturday. It offers a place for unhoused people to shower, and brings in lawyers, doctors, nurses and anyone who is willing to help.
The church is looking for a local nonprofit to partner with.
Watch the video above for the full report.