St. Clare of Montefalco hosts a Sports Mass at 9 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 5, for student-athletes in its elementary school and religious education program, as well as from other schools or clubs in the community, to celebrate their athletic abilities. What makes this Mass unique is that Fr. Andrew Kowalczyk, CSMA, invites former professional athletes, sports broadcasters and leaders involved in sports to be lectors during the Mass.
“This year’s Mass features Oakland University Grizzlies and Detroit FC play-by-play broadcaster Neal Ruhl, former NBA star and current Detroit Pistons Community Ambassador Earl Cureton, as well as guest greeter Detroit Pistons mascot Hooper,” Kowalczyk said. “This is an opportunity to use sports as a unifying tool, bringing the community together to share and give thanks for their God-given talents and efforts.”
Kowalczyk said seeing sports personalities participate in St. Clare’s religious services sets a positive example to children and parents alike. Following Mass, photos are taken with student-athletes and they, along with their parents, have an opportunity to talk with the sports celebs and get autographs during a social in the parish hall.
“St. Clare has a vibrant parish and elementary school with a great athletic program headed up by Bob Conway, athletic director,” Kowaczyk said. “Our Sports Mass is designed for all student-athletes in our parish boundaries and their parents. This is an opportunity for parents to bring their student-athletes so they can go to church together using sports as a means to bring families together in a worship situation.”
For more information, call (313) 647-5030 or (313) 647-5000.
