Cathedral Church of St. Paul’s First Black Priest Wants to Grow Historic Midtown Church

December 23, 2025

The Rev. Joseph C. Alsay has been appointed as the eleventh dean of the Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Detroit, marking a historic milestone as the first Black leader of Michigan's oldest Episcopal church founded in 1824.

Who is affected

Rev. Joseph C. Alsay (new dean)
The Cathedral Church of St. Paul congregation (approximately 130 current members)
Church staff members (Marshall and Brandon mentioned)
Detroit Midtown residents seeking a place of worship
Episcopal Diocese of Michigan Bishop Bonnie A. Perry
John LaDuke (senior warden)
Dean Scott Hunter (retired predecessor after 17 years)
Alsay's family (wife and three children: Zoe, Zipporah, and Caleb)

What action is being taken

Staff members are decorating the church for Christmas, including hanging wreaths
Alsay is implementing his vision to create a more welcoming and inviting space for residents
The church is maintaining open doors and friendly greetings as part of increased accessibility efforts
Alsay is working to increase membership and expand the church's community benefit

Why it matters

This represents a historic milestone for Michigan's oldest Episcopal church, demonstrating institutional progress in Black leadership within religious organizations. The appointment is significant because it signals the church's commitment to diversity and inclusivity while maintaining its role as a prominent Detroit institution with over 200 years of history. Alsay's track record of building bridges across political and social divides, combined with his focus on community relevance rather than just maintaining an "inspiring space," positions the cathedral to potentially become more engaged with contemporary Detroit residents and address modern social issues.

What's next

Christmas Eve services are scheduled for December 24 at 4:00 PM and 10:30 PM (candlelight service) at 4800 Woodward Ave.

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle