'Mass Mob' Movement Invites Thousands To Visit Detroit's Historic Churches

DETROIT (WWJ) - Many of the city's most precious pieces of art are not hanging at the Detroit Institute of Arts ... They're in Detroit's historic churches.

Most of the city's Catholic churches were built by immigrant craftsman whose skills were sought after to build some of the area's mansions and skyscrapers.

(credit: Facebook/Detroit Mass Mob)

The "Mass Mob" movement started in Buffalo, New York two years ago — an effort to breath new life into some forgotten inner city churches.

The Detroit Mass Mob effort was founded by Tom Mann, Ann Marie Barnes, Jeff Stawasz and Anthony Battaglia.

"Our first Mass Mob was in April," said Mann, "and 400 people came."

Three Detroit Mass Mobs later 1,800 people showed up for a service at Sweetest Heart of Mary Church in Detroit in July. The collection for the first three Mobs totaled more than $45,000 and all of the cash went to the churches.

Tom Mann stands outside St. Alburtus Church (credit: Marie Osborne/WWJ)

Mann told WWJ's Newsradio 950's Marie Osborne the Mobs are open to all, and "are so moving they give you goosebumps".

He said people have told them they had their faith rekindled at the services.

The next Mass is Sunday at St. Alburtus Church 4231 St. Aubin in Detroit.

Inside St. Alburtus Church (credit: Facebook/Detroit Mass Mob)

Get more information HERE or at detroitmassmob.com.