Long before grand churches were built, disciples carried Jesus Christ into the world through their witness, their charity, and their steadfast hope. They understood that while sacred spaces nurture our faith, it is faithful people who bring that faith to life. When Mass concludes, we are sent forth to live what we have received ‒ to love our neighbors, care for those in need and bear witness to the mercy of Jesus Christ in every corner of daily life.
The Gospel is most compelling when it is lived.
That is why I want to invite Catholics from across southeast Michigan to gather for the Rising from the Ashes Revival on July 22 at Huntington Place in downtown Detroit.
While this event is being organized independently by local Catholic leaders rather than by the Archdiocese of Detroit, I am grateful for every opportunity to gather as one family of faith, crossing parish lines, geographic boundaries, generations, and backgrounds. When thousands come together in prayer, Eucharistic devotion, worship, and fellowship, we are reminded that our unity is found in Christ Himself.
This event comes at a providential time. Across the Archdiocese of Detroit, we are undertaking a process of renewal that includes difficult decisions about how we steward our resources and strengthen our mission. Much of this discernment involves the future of our churches, sacred spaces where generations have encountered Christ and found a spiritual home. It is precisely because these places matter so deeply that conversations about change evoke such strong emotions.
However, moments like these also invite us to remember a truth at the very heart of our faith: The Church is bigger than just the buildings in which we worship. The Church is the Body of Christ, alive in His people and sent into the world to proclaim the Gospel.
Rising from the ashes
The image of “rising from the ashes” resonates deeply with the story of Detroit. Our city has endured hardship and reinvention before, emerging stronger through resilience and faith. The same is true for the Church. Renewal often begins in the moments that challenge us to trust God’s providence more fully. As Catholics, we must never lose sight of the source of our hope, the Risen Christ who walks with His people and calls us to follow Him.
That invitation extends beyond every church door. It is present when we welcome the stranger, comfort the grieving, feed the hungry, and serve our neighbors with humility and love. In those moments, the Church is alive and the Gospel is made visible.
I invite all who seek renewal to join us at the Rising from the Ashes Revival. All proceeds from the event will directly benefit five local Catholic charities that provide critical services, including housing, food, counseling, and support for vulnerable populations: the Pope Francis Center, Mary’s Mantle, Capuchin Soup Kitchen, Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan and Better Way Detroit.
My prayer is that this day will strengthen our shared faith and remind us that the Church is present wherever believers gather in Christ’s name and live His Gospel with conviction.
Edward J. Weisenburger is the Archbishop of Detroit. Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters, and we may publish it in print or online.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit archbishop invites Catholics to Rising from the Ashes Revival | Opinion
Reporting by Edward J. Weisenburger, Op-ed contributor / Detroit Free Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Edward J. Weisenburger, Op-ed contributor | USA TODAY Network
