Book recommendation: "Years of Faith"

Cover image showing the exterior of the former St. Agnes Church

A local author, Robert Mowry, recently published a book outlining the history of select Detroit parishes.

Years of Faith: The Ethnic Heritage and History of Ten Catholic Parishes of Detroit features ten chapters with each chapter focused on one of ten parishes. Those featured include: St. Agnes, St. Anthony, St. John Cantius, St. Stanislaus, St. Albertus, St. Rita, St. Theresa of Avila, St. Elizabeth, St. Thomas the Apostle and Immaculate Conception. Of these, only St. Elizabeth remains as an active parish.


The former St. Stanislaus Church located near the I-94/I-75 interchange.

Detailed descriptions are given for each church, including the year constructed and the architect, while dozens of photos show the beautiful artwork and architecture. The book also outlines the history of each parish: their establishment, growth, parish life, decline and eventual closing.

• Paperback, 156 pages
• Available at Michigan Artisans, 1400 E. Fisher, Detroit (at Russell St., southern end of Eastern Market). $20; six copies available at last check. Call for availability: 313-355-4316
• On backorder: Amazon
• Interview with the author: The Michigan Catholic