DETROIT ─ The Archdiocese of Detroit’s Office of Cultural Ministries hosted its annual Black Catholic Ministries Gospel Choir concert on Sunday, Nov. 2, at Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Detroit, the former site of St. Leo Parish.
This year’s theme, “Worthy to be Praised,” brought together more than 80 choir members and musicians from Catholic parishes for an evening of spirited praise and dynamic worship inspired by Psalm 18.
The concert showcased the depth of Black Catholic worship and its expression through Gospel music, powerful testimonies, and a profound sense of shared faith.
Throughout the night, audience members actively participated in worship, standing, clapping, and singing along as the choir led a celebration that strengthened community and elevated hearts in praise.
WDIV-TV Local 4 News anchor Demond Fernandez served as emcee and emphasized the honor of being part of the program. A vocalist himself with the choir at Sacred Heart Parish in Detroit, Fernandez noted that his demanding schedule often prevents him from singing regularly.
Being entrusted with a leadership role in the concert, he said, was both meaningful and affirming.
“This is such a safe and Spirit-filled space,” he said. “Among Catholics, we are not afraid to share worship and show worship, and you definitely saw that tonight.”
Fernandez reflected on his personal journey in music and ministry.
He was raised Catholic, and later attended the Baltimore School for the Arts, where he often felt hesitant to sing publicly after peers suggested Catholic musicians “lacked soul.”
Finding community in Detroit’s Black Catholic Gospel Choir has helped him embrace his voice with confidence.
The event demonstrated the ongoing commitment of the Detroit Black Catholic Ministries to uplift the voices and cultural gifts of Black Catholics in Detroit.
Through music, witness, and shared worship, the choir continues to encourage unity, inspire deeper faith, and affirm the presence and power of God within the community.
As voices rose together in praise, the message of the night remained clear: Our God is truly "Worthy to be praised."
(Photos by Valaurian Waller | Detroit Catholic)
