Tess S.
Yelp
If you're a fan of ritual and have never attended a high mass, I highly recommend it. There's just something about zoning out on words in an ancient language, and all attention on the altar instead of the priest that is hard to explain or capture effectively in words. An orchestral mass at a big holiday is my favorite way to go, but be forewarned, they can stretch on as long as 2 hours. Not for the hurried, a real time for contemplation.
St. Joseph's is one of Detroit's many beautiful old Catholic Churches. I attended the Latin midnight mass with an old friend this past Christmas, it was so beautiful I was moved to tears. Poinsettias adorned the altar, bought as remembrances by various parishioners through the year. It was an orchestral mass with a full choir and strings. Vivaldi and Bach were played- my favorite piece by far was a duet sung by two sopranos- an adult woman and prepubescent boy.
The church itself is in good condition, better maintained than a few of the others in the area. As the population in the area has fluctuated, attendance has lowered at these old gems. In some cases, renovations have had to been forgone, a couple have even had to close. I'm really glad St. Joseph hasn't suffered in this way.