Harmonica-playing Detroit priest finds following -- at 87

Published: 2006-10-19

DETROIT (CNS) -- When 87-year-old Father William McGoldrick played his harmonica at a Detroit restaurant Sept. 25, it was to a full house, a typical crowd for his fundraising appearances for various Catholic charities. "They're always booked up about 10 days in advance," said Cheri LaGrasso, Christian Service coordinator at Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish in suburban Grosse Pointe Woods. LaGrasso helps Father McGoldrick with arrangements for his performances at the Blue Pointe Restaurant on Detroit's east side. For years, Father McGoldrick has been taking his harmonica along when he celebrates Mass at area retirement and nursing homes, hospitals and parishes. Parishioners at Our Lady Star of the Sea, where he was in residence for many years, have heard him play during Mass on special occasions, and students in the parish elementary school have often heard him play during their lunch period. But his restaurant gigs just began this year. "He's got a great following, and he's quite an amazing guy," said Blue Pointe owner David Muer.

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