The parish St Josaphat in Detroit, Michigan, began offering the Roman Rite in 2004 when the parish was in full decline.
This liturgy led to a rapid increase in attendance, particularly among younger Catholics.
However, in 2012, tensions developed within the parish of St. Josaphat between long-standing Novus Ordo parishioners and those attending the Latin Mass. this followed the appointment of a new parish priest. Some older members expressed concerns about the level of involvement and financial contribution of the newer group. However, according to accounts from those involved, the Latin Mass community contributed approximately two-thirds of parish revenue. The dispute continued for several years.
Finally, the parish was merged. Today, it is effectively closed, with no regular Eucharists.
This is the story of a group of Catholics in a dying parish who, when presented with an unexpected lifeline, chose to die.
Archdiocese Prefers Death to New Life
Following the publication of Summorum Pontificum (2007), the number of Latin Masses in the Archdiocese of Detroit increased significantly, reaching 28 locations prior to 2021.
The then-Archbishop Allen Vigneron described the policy as a 'remarkable success' that helped to restore ecclesial peace and produce positive results in the lives of the faithful.
In February 2025, Monsignor Edward Weisenburger was appointed Archbishop of Detroit and abolished two dozen Masses. He only left four in inconvenient locations.
The Priestly Fraternity of St Pius X established its first US presence in the Detroit area in 1975 at the church St Joseph. This chapel is thriving.
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