Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger announced a significant two-year renewal process for the Archdiocese of Detroit, addressing challenges faced by the Catholic community in southeast Michigan.

The announcement came during weekend Masses, where Weisenburger shared that the archdiocese now serves approximately 900,000 Catholics across 209 parish communities, a notable decrease from the historical peak of 1.5 million when many of the current churches were constructed.

“With a smaller portion regularly attending Mass, we’ve been struggling to maintain buildings, ministries, and structures designed for a much larger Church,” Weisenburger said in his video message to parishioners.

The renewal initiative will span two years, focusing on discernment and strategic planning.

“It will be a journey of discernment, to chart the best path forward for each of our parish communities and regions,” the archbishop explained.

The process may result in changes to how and where some parish communities gather.

In the spring, parishes will host listening sessions so people can share their thoughts and ideas.

“I hope our churches stay open, people need their home churches. It’s very valuable,” said parishioner Lisa Willenbrock.

Another parishioner, Bob Grammens, offered a different perspective: “Having empty buildings is not good if there are no people going to Church at a certain spot, or if attendance is low, something should be done.”

Weisenburger emphasized that the initiative’s goal extends beyond mere survival.

“I really believe with all my heart that God is inviting us to reimagine parish life,” he said.

For more information, including the Archbishop’s letter and video, you can visit restructuring.aod.org

Just as they seem to show they’ve learned something, the Detroit Red Wings fall behind in class.

They salvaged a point against the Buffalo Sabres, but that was after being ahead by three goals and then basically crashing.

“Giving up a shorty is, when the momentum is starting to swing their way, that’s a Bermuda Triangle death trap,” coach Todd McLellan said after the Wings lost, 5-4, in overtime at Little Caesars Arena on Saturday, Nov. 15.

The Wings (10-7-1) were up 4-1 midway through the game, and took a 4-2 lead into the third period. But closing down a team that sits near the bottom of the NHL standings was too much to ask.

SATURDAY’S ACTION: Detroit Red Wings blow 3-goal lead in 5-4 (OT) loss to Buffalo Sabres

“You have a chance at 4-3 on the power play to put the game out of reach and we give up a shorthanded goal,” Patrick Kane said. “Those are just things that are unacceptable that we have to learn.