Archdiocese of Detroit Catholic Deaf Community

To the Archdiocese of Detroit Catholic Deaf Community!

We strive to support a ministry where all Deaf individuals are invited to meet Jesus Christ and participate in the life of the Catholic Church using American Sign Language. We welcome everyone, including our hearing brothers and sisters, who want to experience the richness of our Deaf culture and deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer, service and the Sacraments.
 

Dear Catholic Deaf Community,

I was ordained a priest in 1985. The SJDC choir signed at the Mass! When I was first assigned to Detroit, Fr. Mike Kazer was the Director at SJDC and Fr. Rich Yost, OSFS, was the Director at OLL-WDCDC. Not being in charge gave me time to work summers at Camp Mark Seven and teach religion at Madonna University. The Provincial appointed me as Director of Novices in 1991. This began many years of vocation and seminarian work.  Fr. Mike Depcik, OSFS, was my first novice. In 1996, I convinced the Oblates to allow Holley Institute to be built at Camp DeSales. I convinced them to move the Novitiate to Camp a few years later. In doing so, I ended up responsible for Camp and the Novitiate these many years. I continue to have these responsibilities. 

I was so happy to see Fr. Mike’s ministry in Detroit. He is a wonderful priest, preacher and pastor. I enjoyed covering his Masses when he was out of town. I know many, like me, miss him. Fortunately, Fr. Mike will be back in Detroit during the summer.  Until then, I will celebrate Masses for OLL and SJDC every Sunday. I will also do my best to be with you for Christmas, Holy Week, Easter and funeral Masses.  

I have known many directors: Sr. Dolores, Fr. Gary, Fr. Mike, Fr. Rich, Fr. Mike and now Veronica. We are blessed to have Veronica - she is a woman of faith - and I look forward to working with her.

Thank you all for your love and support over these many years. It’s nice to see you all more often!

Affectionately,

Fr. Ken McKenna