Archdiocese of Detroit and Capuchin Franciscan Order in Detroit to Hold Press Conference Today at 10:30 a.m. Following Pope Francis Announcement

The Archdiocese of Detroit and the Capuchin Franciscan Order in Detroit will host a press conference today to give official statements following a momentous announcement made by Pope Francis earlier today in Rome. At 10:30 this morning in Rome, the Holy Father Pope Francis received in audience His Eminence Cardinal Angelo Amato, S.D.B., prefect for the Congregation of the Causes of Saints. During this audience, the Holy Father authorized the Congregation for the Causes of Saints to promulgate the following decree regarding a miracle, attributed to the intercession of the Venerable Servant of God Solanus Casey, professed priest of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchins; born November 25, 1870 and died July 31, 1957.

Father Solanus Casey was a member of the Capuchin Franciscan Order of St. Joseph in Detroit and one of the co-founders of the city's Capuchin Soup Kitchen.

"The beatification of Father Solanus Casey is an incomparable grace for the Church in the Archdiocese of Detroit and for the whole community of Southeast Michigan," stated Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron, Archdiocese of Detroit. "He is an inspiration to all us Catholics – and to all – of the power of grace to transform one's life."

"Long before we knew and loved Pope Francis, we had the example of Fr. Solanus who lived the Gospel of Mercy," said Fr. Michael Sullivan, OFM Cap. and Provincial Minister of the Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Joseph. "Known for his compassion and simplicity, he drew many thousands to God."

WHEN:     

Thursday, May 4, 2017

10:30 a.m.

Media is requested to arrive by 10:15 a.m ET; Remarks begin at 10:30 a.m. ET

The public is welcome.

WHERE:   

Solanus Casey Center

1740 Mt. Elliott Street, Detroit

 Press parking available on Mt. Elliott and Center's parking lot on Kercheval. Media please enter the "Creation Garden" gate entrance off of Mt. Elliott.

WHO:      

Speakers to include:

Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron, Archdiocese of Detroit

Fr. Michael Sullivan, Provincial Minister, Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Joseph

Fr. Larry Webber, Vice Postulator, Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Joseph

Br. Richard Merling, Vice Postulator, Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Joseph

Fr. David Preuss, Solanus Casey Center Director

Gerarda Tobin, business and community leader, will serve as Emcee.

Individuals who knew Father Solanus and a family member