Over 450 guests gathered at Saint John’s Resort on October 16, 2025, for the Catholic Foundation of Michigan’s sold-out Igniting Our Future Gala — an evening of faith, generosity and community. The event raised more than $550K+ to strengthen Catholic schools, scholarships, and youth programs across Michigan.

The celebration began with an exclusive VIP reception, where guests enjoyed a guided wine tasting led by a sommelier in the historic Wine Grotto, followed by private conversation with keynote speaker Fr. Mike Schmitz. Catholic Foundation President and CEO Angela Moloney welcomed guests with gratitude, recognizing the Foundation’s Board of Directors, Founders Circle and major sponsors, including Nub’s Nob, Lear Corporation, and Hour Detroit, whose support made the event possible.

“At the heart of the Catholic Foundation is a rhythm — we listen, we respond, and we connect. These connections are where God’s grace moves most powerfully.”

Serving as emcee, Fr. Joe Krupp kept the crowd laughing and inspired, reminding attendees, “Each of you carries a spark of faith. Tonight is about letting those sparks unite into something powerful.”

Building on that spirit of unity, Foundation Board Chair Chris Allen reflected on the organization’s growth. “Since the Catholic Foundation’s founding eight years ago, we’ve distributed more than $33 million in grants — $13 million of which has directly supported youth formation and Catholic education. Behind those numbers are countless stories of faith, leadership, and service.”

Greg and Lauren Fisher, Gala Chairs and Foundation board members, reflected on their family’s six-decade legacy of faith through Nub’s Nob and the Fisher Family Foundation, which continues to invest in the future of Catholic education.

“Each gift is a spark,” Greg shared. “When we give, we fan the flame — and together, those flames become a light that guides generations.”

The evening’s highlight came with Fr. Schmitz’s keynote address, “The Power of the Catholic Community: Living Faith with Courage and Joy.” Drawing from his recent book Unshakeable: Building a Life of Virtue in a World of Chaos, he challenged guests to reflect on the mission of Catholic education. “If our parish and school programs aren’t making disciples who love Jesus, they’re failures,” shared Fr. Mike Schmitz.

That message echoed in a short impact video featuring stories from Shrine Catholic, Gesu, St. William, and St. Anne Catholic Schools — real lives touched by the Foundation’s scholarships and grants. The stories inspired a wave of generosity during the paddle raise, with gifts ranging from $100 to $25,000. Other highlights included a live auction featuring prizes such as Flowers for a Year from Thrifty Florist and a Good News Cruise vacation package donated by Corporate Travel Service.

Archbishop Edward Weisenburger closed the program with a special blessing before guests gathered for a nightcap reception and a performance by Detroit-born soprano Angela Theis.

“I am continually inspired by the generosity of this community,” shared Angela Moloney.

“Because of you, the Catholic Foundation continues to be a beacon of faith, guiding others to give, to serve, and to ignite our shared futures,” said Angela. 

The Catholic Foundation of Michigan extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, donors,  and volunteers who made the 2025 Igniting Our Future Gala a success — affirming once again that when faith and generosity unite, the future is bright. To make a post-event gift or fulfill a paddle-raise pledge, click the button below or visit: https://bit.ly/cfmgalagive

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