by Jane Gladden

On January 31, 1975, Fr. Michael Ratajczak was ordained into the priesthood of Our Lord Jesus Christ by Bishop Thomas Gumbleton. Auxiliary Bishop of Detroit, Michigan, beginning a lifelong journey as a priest in service to the mission and ministry of Jesus Christ. The first disciples heard and responded to Jesusб invitation, ббco me, follow me.” We at St. Thomas More are continually thankful that at his ordination 40 years ago our pastor answered Jesus’ call. We are now blessed to be a part of his flock as he enters what he fondly refers to as his “final stretch.” On Sunday, January 18, 2015, on the St. Thomas More campus, with joy and thanksgiving, Fr. Mike celebrated a beautiful liturgy in a room filled with many friends and family, musicians and ministers, parishioners and priests.

Fr. Mike’s longtime friend and brother priest, Fr. Rich Lewandowski, provided much of the joy , laughter, tears and expressions of thanksgiving in his heart-warming homily. It was a true celebration of a man who has committed himself to explore the Mystery of our faith through us and with us. Following the Mass, the entire Parish celebrated under the tent at a reception gloriously organized by our Reception Team, where stories were shared, and much laughter was heard. As the Parish enters its fourth decade and nears the completion of its permanent church, we look forward to the months and years ahead, celebrating the leadership of and offering prayers for Fr. Mike, who with his characteristic humor and deep devotion teaches us to be grace-filled followers- just as he is a follower- of our Lord, Jesus Christ.