A clash of wills, a community divided. That’s how the story of Sweetest Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church begins. This impressive church stands as a testament to faith. It also represents resilience and the enduring spirit of Detroit’s Polish community.
In 1871, about 300 Polish families united. They established St. Albertus Parish in Detroit. They chose Father Dominic Hippolytus Kolasinski as their pastor. He hailed from Krakow, Poland.
However, conflict arose in November 1885. Dissension split the parish into two opposing groups. This led to Kolasinski’s suspension. He was reassigned.
But Kolasinski wouldn’t back down. The Free Press even called him the “fighting Polish priest.” On December 8, 1888, Kolasinski returned to the city. Gathering supporters from St. Albertus, he established Sweetest Heart of Mary Parish. This parish existed outside the Detroit Diocese.
Imagine the determination of these early parishioners. They were called Kolasinskians. They rallied behind their leader. They built this magnificent church. It was originally known as Sacred Heart of Mary.
The architectural firm of Spier and Rohns designed the Late Gothic Revival style building. Its cornerstone was laid on June 5, 1892. Finally, on December 24, 1893, the church was officially dedicated. Building Sweetest Heart of Mary cost about $125,000. That equals over $4 million today.
Adding to the drama, Kolasinski brought in his own “bishop” for the dedication. This controversial Wisconsin priest wasn’t authorized by the Church. Thousands of people attended this spectacle.
Eventually, Kolasinski was restored in February 1894. The church reentered the diocesan fold. That’s when its name changed to Sweetest Heart of Mary.
Look closely at the stained-glass windows. The Detroit Stained Glass Works designed them. The south transept window depicts Jesus working in his father’s carpenter shop. The north transept honors Saint Vincent de Paul. The Holy Family window even won an award. It was presented at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exhibition in Chicago.
Sweetest Heart of Mary is home to the 1894 Austin Organ Opus 2. It was restored in 1977. Now, it features an electromagnet system.
In 2013, Sweetest Heart of Mary united with St. Josephat. Together, they formed Mother of Divine Mercy Parish.
Sweetest Heart of Mary continues to serve Detroit. It hosts an annual pierogi festival. The festival is a beloved tradition for Detroiters. This church represents more than architecture. It embodies the strength and faith of a community. It stands as a reminder of a spirited past.