The cornerstone reads 1948. But Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church’s story began much earlier. In 1927 Bishop Michael Gallagher appointed Father Edward O’Mahoney. He was to serve a sprawling area. The first Mass was held in a building called “the Villa”. Soon a small frame church nicknamed “The Little White Church on the Hill” was built. This humble beginning housed the first 75 families. They were an energetic bunch. They formed an Altar Society a Holy Name Society and even a choir.
Our Lady of Sorrows grew quickly. People moved to the suburbs from Detroit. Four Masses were needed each Sunday. An assistant priest was appointed. The church expanded. A new school was built. Dominican Sisters taught there. The school grew. Religious education flourished. Our Lady of Sorrows thrived.
The “Little White Church on the Hill” proved too small. A permanent church was needed. A larger site was chosen. Charles D Hannan designed the new building. It was to include a school a gymnasium a convent a church and a rectory. The new school opened in 1948. That December the new gymnasium-church was finished. It seated 750 people. The first Mass in the new church was a midnight Christmas Mass attended by 1000 people. The old “Little White Church” was then torn down.
Our Lady of Sorrows continued to grow. A high school was added. It graduated its first class in 1958. Over 1400 students would graduate before the high school closed in 1971. A new permanent church was built. It was dedicated in 1961. The design was simple. It was intended to bring parishioners closer to the sanctuary.
Throughout the years Our Lady of Sorrows faced challenges. The Great Depression tested the faith of its members. The closure of the high school was a difficult decision. Yet the parish persevered. New parishes were formed from Our Lady of Sorrows. Its legacy continued to spread.
Through the decades Our Lady of Sorrows has been home to many pastors. Each contributed to its rich history. From the humble beginnings of the “Little White Church” to the modern facilities of today. Our Lady of Sorrows stands as a testament to faith community and enduring spirit. It is a place where generations have worshipped learned and grown together. A living legacy in the heart of the community. Let us reflect on its journey a journey that continues to unfold.