Ever wondered why St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church stands here? This is more than just a building. It is a vibrant hub. It is a testament to faith and community.
St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church’s story began in 1923. Father James A. McDonald was chosen to lead the new parish. He oversaw the work under the Augustinian Fathers.
The first mass occurred on October 3 1926. It was held at the Colony Theatre. Over 500 parishioners attended three masses. A temporary chapel was purchased for weekday masses. It was located on Bedford Street in Detroit.
The parish commissioned Van Leyen, Schilling & Keogh to design a school in 1926. The Catholic parochial school was completed in 1927. It opened in September with 300 students. The Dominican Sisters from Columbus Ohio were in charge. The school was located on Charlevoix at the corner of Audubon in Grosse Pointe Park.
The school had a Spanish architectural style. It was made from brick and stone with a tile roof. A tower was designed to look like a church. The school temporarily served as the parish’s church. The design harmonized with the planned church rectory and convent.
The school had eight classrooms and an auditorium for 600 people. The auditorium was used for church services. The ground floor had offices and a waiting room. The second floor included a library and a teacher’s rest room.
By 1928 the school had 420 students. In 1929 a rectory convent and four classrooms were added. By 1963 enrollment exceeded 1100 students. Grosse Pointe Park approved closing Audubon for the school to expand.
Van Leyen Schilling & Keogh the firm that designed the school dates back to 1908. Edward C. Van Leyen the architect trained with John Scott & Co. He opened his own practice in 1886. The firm worked on Fordson High School and Belle Isle Casino. They also designed St. Agnes Catholic Church in Detroit.
The St. Clare of Montefalco Roman Catholic Church is located on Whittier. The parish wanted to build a church. They wanted to move services from the school auditorium. In 1941 property south of Mack was purchased. In 1950 Diehl and Diehl were hired to design the church.
Ground was broken in August 1950. The cornerstone was placed on October 21 1951. The church was designed in the form of a Latin cross. The main floor had space for 1100 people. The altar was visible to everyone. The new church was dedicated on May 10 1953. The architecture stained glass and carvings told the story of faith.
The convent was demolished by 1996. A memorial garden and parish office were dedicated in 1997. The church was restored and remodeled in 1999. This created the building we see today.
St. Clare parish holds a special place in Grosse Pointe’s history. The school and church showcase diverse architectural styles.
Did you know a parishioner made the cross on display? The videos feature hidden meanings and historical information. They also explain why each saint was chosen for the tapestries.
The parish has ministries focused on knowing loving and serving. These include bible studies faith formation and youth ministry. There is also adoration liturgical music and services like the Knights of Columbus.
St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church continues to be a beacon. It is a place to know love and serve.