I'm New
OUR MISSION
We, the Mount Carmel family, called by the Spirit to holiness, strengthened by Word and Sacrament, and guided by the Blessed Mother of God, strive in our various ways to participate in the mission of Jesus. We share the Gospel, pray together, teach, serve others, and strive to be witnesses of His healing love of all people.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel enjoys a rich tradition; some of our parishioners share an Italian heritage dating back to 1926 when the church was founded. But as we honor our past, we focus on the future of our parish and the entire Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood and Gordon Square Arts District.
We offer a comprehensive schedule of weekday and weekend masses, including a Sunday English/Italian Bilingual Mass and a Sunday evening mass, we well as an array of organizations, clubs, and activities that engage parishioners, encourage them to share their time and talents, and attract non-parishioners.
FAQ's
When you visit
Visiting a new church can be intimidating: What should I wear? Where do I park? Where do my kids go?
We understand the many thoughts that can come from visiting a new church, so we want you to feel completely comfortable when you visit. Below are some frequently asked questions. If you have any additional questions, don't hesitate to contact us or talk with an usher when you visit.
When are Masses?
Weekend Masses
Sundays: 8:00 AM, 11:30 AM (English & Italian), and 5:00 PM
Confessions
By Appointment
What should I wear?
First of all, we are so happy you are here. You should feel comfortable wearing what you feel comfortable in.
Over time you will begin to see the Church as your sanctuary or special place where you encounter God. We then realize that we should dress and act differently in the Church.
Where should I park?
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel has a large parking lot in the back of the Church. You can walk around the Church and enter through either side door or the front.
Where do my children go?
At Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, we love to see families with small children. Very rarely do children cause a noticeable disruption in Mass. If, however, they do get upset or misbehave you are welcome to take them to the cry room (Chapel) which is in the back left of the Church.
I’m not Catholic ... so, how do I know when to sit, stand and kneel?
The Catholic liturgy has to do with the "whole" person worshiping God. This means that we come together to praise body, mind, and soul. Practically this means that we do sit at times...stand others...and, even, kneel at other moments. Newcomers shouldn't feel self-conscience, because people are focused on the Mass and their prayer. Just watch the others and be at peace!
I’m not Catholic ... is it okay for me to participate in communion?
Because Catholics believe that the celebration of the Eucharist is a sign of the reality of the oneness of faith, life, and worship, members of those churches with whom we are not yet fully united are ordinarily not admitted to Holy Communion. Eucharistic sharing in exceptional circumstances by other Christians requires permission according to the directives of the diocesan bishop and the provisions of canon law (canon 844 §4). Members of the Orthodox Churches, the Assyrian Church of the East, and the Polish National Catholic Church are urged to respect the discipline of their Churches. According to Roman Catholic discipline, the Code of Canon Law does not object to the reception of Communion by Christians of these Churches (canon 844 §3).
Am I expected to put money in the offering?
Every Mass, after the prayers of the faithful, we take up a "collection". The ushers go to each pew. The collection goes toward the continued maintenance and payroll of the parish.
You are free to give if you wish. Most parishioners give their weekly donations in their personal envelopes. Others give whatever they think is appropriate. Ultimately, the donation is between the individual and God.
I have a hearing problem. Is there any special assistance?
We are more than happy to assist anyone with special needs. Please let us know your needs. Those with hearing impairments can be seated in a place where they can better hear.