Gathering space for pets, people and community members part of cathedral's master plan for a welcoming neighborhood
DETROIT — The Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament welcomed dozens of parishioners, neighbors, and their four-legged companions Oct. 4 for the grand opening and blessing of Holy Paws Dog Park, a new community space, dedicated on the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals.
The joyful celebration included blessings for the park and for pets of all kinds, from playful dogs to a few curious cats, as families gathered to celebrate God’s creation and the sense of community it inspires.
The event capped off years of planning and collaboration among the cathedral’s leadership, neighborhood organizations and community partners. The idea for the park emerged in 2020 after cathedral staff noticed that a fenced lot across the street had become an informal gathering spot for local dog owners.
“From the beginning, this project was about more than just a dog park,” said Fr. J.J. Mech, rector of the cathedral. “It’s about community, creation, and connection, showing that God’s love reaches through all living things.”
As the blessings were given, the sound of barking and laughter filled the space. Families lingered to chat and watch their pets play in the park, a scene that reflected what cathedral leaders had hoped for: faith, friendship, and joy shared among God’s creatures.
Fr. Mech, accompanied by his dog, Annie, led the blessing ceremony and thanked the many individuals and organizations who helped bring the project to life. He credited the persistence and generosity of Mary Zatina, and cathedral project manager Mark Garascia, who helped guide the park through city approvals, design plans, and fundraising.
The park will eventually feature a carved marble statue of St. Francis and the Wolf of Gubbio. A temporary statue, which once belonged to Fr. Mech’s late father, stood in its place during the ceremony, symbolizing both faith and family roots.
Beyond the park itself, the project is part of the cathedral’s broader North End revitalization plan, which includes affordable housing, a pollinator garden, and long-term hopes for a community center across the street.
Garascia emphasized that each of these efforts reflects the cathedral’s mission to serve as a gathering place for the entire neighborhood, not only for worship but for daily life.
Michael Porreca, who has attended cathedral events for years, said the blessing reflected the welcoming spirit that has defined the Archdiocese of Detroit’s mother parish.
“Father J.J. is great; he is always here with Annie, and he’s wonderful with all the animals,” Porreca said. “He takes time for everyone, not just those with dogs. What he’s doing here means a lot to this community.”
The project was made possible through collaboration with organizations including Michigan Humane, Gateway Community Organization, Arden Park East Boston Edison Association, Chicago Boulevard East Block Club, and The Greening of Detroit, whose volunteers helped plant nearly 100 trees around the cathedral campus.
