In the heart of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, stood Our Lady of Grace. This unassuming yet significant church witnessed a rich tapestry of community life, interwoven with faith and dedication. Our Lady of Grace wasn’t just a building. It was a testament to the unwavering spirit of its parishioners.
Our Lady of Grace’s story began on December 3, 1950, with the groundbreaking ceremony. The cornerstone was blessed on July 1, 1951. The church was completed in early 1952, just in time for the first Mass on Palm Sunday. Bishop Zaleski officially dedicated Our Lady of Grace on September 21, 1952. A permanent convent was also finished that year. The parish continued to grow, adding a parish hall in 1953 and a gymnasium in 1957. This growth led to the establishment of two child parishes: St. Anselm in 1955 and St. Sabina in 1957.
Over the years, Our Lady of Grace saw a succession of dedicated pastors who guided the community. Father Albero Amrhein became the second pastor in 1953, followed by Father Timothy Mock in 1958. Father Mock played a crucial role in establishing Bishop Borgess High School, a regional, multi-parish institution. Father Egbert Heinlein took the helm in 1963 and served until his retirement in 1977. He was succeeded by Father Reinhold Schmitt, and then by Father Polycarp Versteijlen in 1980. Sadly, Father Versteijlen’s pastorate was cut short by his sudden death in 1982. Father Kevin O’Doherty then led the parish for eight years before returning to missionary work.
The Mariannhill Fathers concluded their leadership after Father O’Doherty’s departure, but continued to assist on weekends. In 1991, Father Ron Cyprys, a diocesan priest, became pastor, serving alongside retired Father Charlie O’Neill. Father Cyprys shepherded the community for 16 years until his passing in 2007. Deacon Robert DeWitt served the parish faithfully for 29 years. Father Donald Walker, ordained in 1958, briefly retired in 2006 but returned in 2007 to become administrator of Our Lady of Grace. He later assumed leadership of St. Hilary in Redford Township as well.
Our Lady of Grace School closed its doors in 2000. In 2012, the parish clustered with nearby St. Sabina. Sadly, Our Lady of Grace held its final Mass on June 18, 2017, before merging with St. Sabina. The church’s legacy, however, remains a significant part of Dearborn Heights’ history. Inside, artistic details like statues of St. Anne with Child Mary, St. Joseph, the Infant of Prague, and Our Lady of Grace adorned the space. Stained-glass windows depicted Christ the King and the Baptism. These elements added to the church’s unique character and spiritual atmosphere.