Monday, November 5, 2012

Our Lady of Sorrows


Our Lady of Sorrows was established in 1959, in the picturesque city of Farmington, MI. At Our Lady of Sorrows they come together each week to celebrate the Eucharist and proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ.

The main entrance to Our Lady of Sorrows leads us into a large gathering area that in turns leads us into the main church area. In the church one is immediately drawn to the altar at the front and center of the church. The altar is green and white marble and has a long rectangular shape. A matching lectern is set off to the left of the altar. The altar is surrounded by brick and wooden fixtures; the brick interior also continues around the rest of the church. Behind the altar is a mural painting showing various events in religious life including Moses, Mary and Joseph. The mural reaches up to the ceiling over the altar.

On either side of the altar are prayer/devotion areas. These areas are elegantly decorated with mosaic paintings of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. There are also candles that people can light in prayer for their loved ones.  These areas provide a quiet area to pray and reflect before and after mass.

The inside of the church is constructed in a semi-circle. Along the back walls, the Stations of the Cross are displayed. The pews at Our Lady of Sorrows are arranged around the altar. They are made of medium oak with soft cushioned kneelers.

The pastor at Our Lady of Sorrows is Fr. Mark Brauer. They also have an associate priest; Fr. Paul Snyder, as well as 2 retired priests who help out as weekend assistants. We attended a Saturday evening mass where Fr. Snyder acted as the celebrant. In his homily, Fr. Snyder talked about the relationship between Jesus and the blind man Bartimeaus.  Fr. Snyder encouraged the congregation to follow the example of Bartimeaus and to be humbled and follow in the ways of the Lord.

We enjoyed our visit to Our Lady of Sorrows. It’s a beautiful church filled with a mix of families, young adults and seniors.  They are true believers and they proclaim the good news that is Jesus Christ in words and actions!

UP NEXT: Our Lady Queen of Apostles-Hamtramck
Our Lady of Sorrows

Entrance to Our Lady of Sorrows
 
Waterfall in front of church
 
Steeple at Our Lady of Sorrows
 
Exterior view of Our Lady of Sorrows
 The altar at Our Lady of Sorrows
 
Close up view of altar
 
Artwork at Our Lady of Sorrows