On Day 17 of the Advent pilgrimage, we arrive at the second oldest continuously active parish in America: Ste. Anne de Detroit. The basilica houses a precious relic of the shoulder of Ste. Anne, the grandmother of Jesus and mother of Mary.
It is an occasion to pause to reflect on the example of Bonne Ste. Anne, or “Good Ste. Anne.” For centuries, there has been a popular devotion to Ste. Anne among French Catholics and Detroit itself was once part of the French colony in North America. Ste. Anne has been a powerful intercessor for generations of French Catholics down to this day. As we reflect on the special relationship so many of us have with our grandmothers, one can only begin to imagine the special kind of love that the Christ Child must have had for Ste. Anne and the special place she now holds with him in Heaven. As we progress further along our Advent journey, let us not be afraid to turn to Ste. Anne and seek her help in interceding for us with her grandson.
Discover more of Catholic Detroit
There are many beautiful shrines and churches to discover in Metro Detroit. Learn more by reading my Catholic travel guide to Detroit here.
Concluding Psalm
The concluding psalm for today is from Psalm 143:
“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your kind spirit guide me on ground that is level. For your name’s sake, Lord, give me life; in your righteousness lead my soul out of distress.” (Psalm 143: 10-11)
Previous days of the pilgrimage:
Day 1 – Rapid City, South Dakota
Day 2 – Montana
Day 3 – Sacramento
Day 4 – Los Angeles
Day 5 – Tucson
Day 6 – Santa Fe
Day 7 – Denver
Day 8 – San Antonio
Day 9 – Chicago
Day 10 – LaCrosse
Day 11 – Oklahoma City
Day 12 – Omaha
Day 13 – Wichita
Day 14 – St. Louis
Day 15 – Kansas City
Day 16 – Green Bay
CATHOLIC CONCIERGE 
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