Saints Peter And Paul Church, Detroit

Saints Peter and Paul Jesuit Church, located on East Jefferson Avenue in Detroit, is the city's oldest surviving church and a prominent landmark. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Michigan State Historic Site in 1971, the church holds a significant place in Detroit's architectural and religious history.

The church’s history began in 1844 when Bishop Peter Paul Lefevere initiated its construction, completed in 1848 and consecrated as the diocese's cathedral with mainly Irish and some French parishioners. In 1877, Bishop Caspar Borgess entrusted it to the Jesuit Order, leading to the establishment of Detroit’s first Catholic college, now the University of Detroit-Mercy (UDM). The adjacent building houses UDM’s law school.

Built with Detroit common brick, Saints Peter and Paul Church is a three-aisled structure that retains much of its original layout despite multiple renovations. Significant alterations were made in 1879, 1882, and 1892, with further remodeling in 1911. A chapel addition in 1918 and other updates modernized the church while preserving its historical essence.

The gabled front façade features a central entrance pavilion flanked by Ionic pilasters and arched windows. A short square belfry tops the structure, though an originally planned spire was never added. The side elevations are divided into seven bays with tall rounded arch windows, surmounted by a heavy frieze.

The interior showcases exquisite craftsmanship, including hand-carved oak confessionals, a barrel-vaulted ceiling adorned with apostolic murals, and a remarkable Carrara marble altar. Designed by Gustav Adolph Mueller, the altar features a bas-relief of the crucifixion sculpted by Joseph Sibbel. While these elements were introduced during later renovations, the original organ case remains intact.

The church continues to serve the Detroit community, offering Sunday and weekday masses. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and role in the city’s Catholic education make it a cornerstone of Detroit's cultural heritage.