Detroit

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William A. Moylan, Chair
WAMoylan@gmail.com

Frank Brady, Chair WUJA Congress
fjbradyjr@gmail.com

Fr. Gary Wright, SJ, Jesuit Liaison
wrightgr@udmercy.edu

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Past Events

Horror: From Rupture to Revelation

On Thursday, October 15, 2026, on the cusp of Halloween, Jesuit friends and alumni gathered for a unique discussion with Fr. Ryan Duns, SJ, to discuss how modern horror films and scary movies actually serve as a powerful lens for deep spiritual truths, exposing our universal struggle with fear, evil and ultimate grace.

Landscape of Our Catholic Faith

On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, guests gathered for a wine and cheese reception at the historic Gesu Catholic Church, a parish founded by Jesuits in 1922 and once home to four Detroit mayors, several congressmen, and the renowned Fisher Brothers. The event showcased rare architectural drawings and antique stained-glass window designs—some dating back to the late 1800s—from two Detroit families who worked closely with the Jesuits and the Archdiocese of Detroit. The firms of Diehl & Diehl Architects and Detroit Stained Glass Works helped shape many of the city’s sacred spaces, including Gesu and Colombiere Center for the Jesuits, as well as landmarks such as Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Sweetest Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church, Old St. Mary's Catholic Church, St. Joseph Shrine, and Holy Name Catholic Church. Special guests included Paul G. Diehl, Patricia Montemurri, and Mary Clare McCormick. The evening included Mass, refreshments, and a guided tour of the historic worship site.

Read more about the historic stained glass of Detroit.

Click here for a virtual tour by Ms. Gabriela Nielsen that offers a closer look at the church.

Carrying Forth the Ignatian Tradition at UDM

On Wednesday, February 11, 2026, Jesuit friends and alumni gathered at the University of Detroit Mercy for a winter luncheon featuring Fr. Simon Hendry, SJ, director of the Catholic Studies program at UDM and former superior of the Detroit Jesuit community. Fr. Hendry spoke on “Carrying Forth the Ignatian Tradition at UDM,” exploring how Jesuit values shape teaching and learning, faculty research, mentoring, and student service opportunities. The program also featured a moderated discussion with faculty and students, who shared their experiences of how Ignatian spirituality—rooted in finding God in all things and a commitment to being “people with and for others”—provides a practical and adaptable path to making a positive impact on the world. The luncheon concluded with a question-and-answer session, offering attendees an opportunity to reflect on the enduring influence of Ignatian values in education and service.

Transforming Business: Ignatian Values at the Heart & Soul of Success

On Wednesday, November 6, 2025, Fr. Nicholas Santos, SJ, Associate Professor of Marketing at the Heider College of Business at Creighton University, shared how Ignatian values can transform leadership and redefine success in both business and life. Drawing on his global experience and Jesuit formation, Fr. Santos explored the Jesuit paradigm for business education and emphasized themes of purpose-driven leadership, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable growth. He encouraged attendees to lead with heart and soul, creating success that uplifts both their organizations and the broader community.

On Thursday, May 15, 2025, Fr. Jake Martin, SJ joined Jesuit friends and alumni in Detroit for an evening of comedy fused with Ignatian spirituality. Fr.Mark Luedtke, SJ, was the co-host of the event held at Detroit Shipping Company.

"What is a Jesuit Brother Anyway?"

On March 26, 2025, Br. James J. Boynton, SJ, president of University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy, spoke about the role of Jesuit brothers in the Church today. Since the founding of the Society of Jesus, brothers have played a vital role, but their contributions are often less understood. Br. Boynton shared his insights on their vocation, mission, and impact, offering attendees a deeper appreciation for their work within the Jesuit community and beyond. Watch the event video below.

Advancing Care for our Common Home in Jesuit Universities

On Wednesday, November 20, 2024, Dr. Nancy C. Tuchman, PhD, Founding Dean of the School of Environmental Sustainability, Loyola University Chicago, gave a JFAN talk discussing how Pope Francis and the Society of Jesus are calling us to action to protect our shared planet and how Jesuit universities across the country are leading the way. This talk explored Loyola University Chicago’s sustainability successes as a case study and shared what each of us can do to advance the cause. View Gesu Church and School’s environmental accomplishments here. Watch the event video below.

Finding God in All Things (...sometimes through the eyes of others)

On Wednesday, May 15, 2024, Tom Szczepanski, executive officer of Angel’s Place, gave a JFAN talk about how sometimes it takes the eyes of others to open your own. Watch the event video below.

On Thursday, March 7, 2024, Fr. Patrick Kelly, SJ, PhD, current associate professor of Religious Studies at the University of Detroit Mercy, gave a JFAN talk entitled “Sport, Human Flourishing and the Common Good: Opportunities and Challenges Today.” Watch the full video below