Father Gabriel Richard

Fr. Gabriel Richard (pronounced rish-ARD) served Ste. Anne de Detroit in the 1800s. He is our most famous pastor and a co-founder of the University of Michigan. Fr. Richard has been called “a multi-talented, multi-faceted man of God who brought all of his abilities to bear on the spiritual, intellectual, political and economic development of 19th century Michigan.” 

On September 20, 2020, the rector of the Basilica of Ste. Anne de Detroit, Msgr. Charles Kosanke, announced that we are beginning the process of forming a guild to study the life of Fr. Gabriel Richard. This announcement marks the first step toward possible sainthood for this beloved 19th century pastor.

We invite those who would like to learn more about Fr. Richard to visit our campus. Fr. Richard is interred at the Basilica of Ste. Anne de Detroit in our Fr. Gabriel Richard Chapel. An annual exhibit occurs each fall that displays Fr. Richard’s letters, books, chalice and artifacts.

About Fr. Gabriel Richard
Fr. Gabriel Richard Guild
Canonization Process 
Other Michiganders Who May Achieve Sainthood
More information 
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