The Michigan Area opened its October 4th annual symposium (see “Making the case for life: U.S. Supreme Court advocate presents ‘Beyond Dobbs’ at Michigan Area’s annual symposium”) with the Rosary, Mass, and the opportunity for Confession, in keeping with the Area’s customary “First Saturday” practice. About 75 Dames, Knights, other members of the Order, and guests attended.

The venue was the Solanus Casey Center in Detroit. The Center, which houses the final resting place of Bl. Solanus Casey, hosts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims each year, and is a ministry of the Capuchin Friars of the Province of St. Joseph.

Confessions were heard by Rev. John Maksym, Michigan Area Chaplain in Formation, who also celebrated Mass. Area Chair Andy Smith, KM, led the group in the Rosary and also in the Order’s Daily Prayer at the conclusion of Mass.

Mass readings were proclaimed by Marcia McBrien, DM, and Thomas Larabell, KM. Michael Bonventre, KM, and Susan Bonventre, DM, offered the Prayers of the Faithful.

The Michigan Area is grateful to the Solanus Casey Center, the Capuchins, and especially Sally McCuen, the Center’s Hospitality Coordinator, for hosting us. We also thank the members of the On the Rise Bakery for providing our delicious breakfast and lunch.

Follow the Michigan Area on FaceBook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter).