download image Joe Kohn | The Michigan Catholic Msgr. John Budde and the congregation celebrate Mass during his first weekend as pastor at the new Divine Mercy Parish in Davisburg in July 2007.

Throughout the 175 years of our history as a local Church, the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and the other sacraments have been a constant source of energy, consolation, inspiration, and hope for the priests, deacons, religious and lay faithful who have celebrated these mysteries of our faith.

This month of July, we give thanks to God for the countless people who have made our Christian worship more meaningful and prayerful – architects, artists, and craftsmen who have designed our worship spaces; musicians, cantors, and choir members who help us raise our voices to the Lord; servers, lectors, communion ministers, ministers of hospitality, and all those who help make the liturgy flow efficiently and respectfully; sacristans and custodians, and all who help ensure the cleanliness and beauty of the art and environment of our worship spaces.

Heavenly Father, through your Son our Lord Jesus Christ, you teach us how to worship "in spirit and in truth."

As we celebrate the 175th anniversary of our archdiocese, we give you thanks for the gift and privilege we enjoy as your priestly people, sharing in the death-resurrection of Jesus Christ through the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

We ask your continued guidance and inspiration for all who give of their time and talent so that our worship will truly be worthy of your glory.

We ask all this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.