Our icon
a Sacred gift
a mosaic of mercy
Welcoming Our Patroness
What the icon reveals
An icon is more than art—it is a window to heaven. In prayer, it becomes a point of spiritual contact, drawing us into the presence of the holy figures it depicts.
Mary’s Crown—added by Vatican decree in 1867—along with Jesus’ crown, honors the many miracles attributed to her intercession.
The star on Mary’s veil marks her as the “Star of the Sea,” bearing Christ’s light into a darkened world.
The Greek initials beside her crown proclaim her title: “Mother of God.”
St. Michael the Archangel, on the left, holds the lance and gall-sop—symbols of Christ’s Passion.
Mary’s blue garment, worn by mothers in Palestine, reflects her dual role as Virgin and Mother.
Her large eyes, always turned toward us, see our troubles and needs.
The gold background represents Heaven, where Jesus and Mary are enthroned.
St. Gabriel the Archangel, on the right, holds the cross and nails—also foreshadowing the Passion.
The Greek initials beside Jesus’ head signify “Jesus Christ.”
Mary’s open hands lovingly hold Jesus, yet invite us to draw near to Him.
Jesus’ downturned hands place the Graces of Redemption into Mary’s care—for all who ask through prayer.
His falling sandal shows the haste with which He runs to her in fear, gazing at the instruments of His suffering. One sandal remains secure—symbolizing His human nature—while the loose one reflects His divine nature, unbound by earth.
Mosaic Icon Finds a Home
As is customary within the Archdiocese of Detroit, sacred items from closed churches may be entrusted to other parishes. A parishioner informed Fr. Paul Chateau that St. Louis the King Church housed a mosaic icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, the beloved patroness of our parish. A formal request was made to the Archdiocese, and we were blessed to receive the mosaic and have it delivered to Our Lady of Fatima Church.
To bring this treasured icon into our worship space, master craftsman and carpenter Al Majewski—a true artist—visited the church to consider the installation. Gratefully, he accepted. Thanks to his skill and the care of many, the result is our beautiful Our Mother of Perpetual Help Niche, now located in the northeast corner of the church near the musicians.
This mosaic, once part of another parish’s story, has become part of ours. It stands as a visual prayer and a reminder of Our Mother’s loving presence among us. We are deeply grateful that this piece of religious art—a part of the Archdiocese’s history—has found a home in our parish and continues to inspire devotion and peace.
We invite you to take a moment before or after Mass to visit the niche. Offer a prayer—for our parish, for one another, and for those you hold dear. In her gaze, may you find comfort, strength, and hope.