TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A Traverse City parish is reeling after the sudden termination of its music director, Fred “Mr. Fred” Szczepanski, who served St. Francis Church for 35 years. Parishioners believe the reason is clear: he married his longtime partner in 2020.
Uproar over “local” decision.
The Traverse City Ticker reports that Rev. Michael Lingaur, the church’s administrator, reportedly dismissed Szczepanski on October 18th after receiving a tip about Szczepanski’s civil marriage. Lingaur has reportedly been an ordained priest for approximate three years and only started at the church a few months ago.
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Parishioners describe the move as “gut-wrenching” and describe Szczepanski as having a “pulse on the congregation.” Sherry Koenig, who sang with him over the years called him a “kind, sweet, generous, lovable man.”
A protest outside the church happened shortly after the news broke. Some suspect Lingaur acted alone, without input from the Diocese of Gaylord.
No laws broken.
Traverse City’s city attorney, Lauren Trible-Laucht, doesn’t see any laws broken related to discrimination and said to the Ticker, “Under the law, churches are exempt, and religious institutions…can make those decisions based on their individual beliefs. That’s First Amendment protected activity.”
A beloved figure in the community.
Szczepanski’s impact at St. Francis extended far beyond music. Known for his dedication to parishioners, Szczepanski supported widows, organized holiday services, and created a sense of community. His abrupt exit left many feeling lost, with one parishioner calling it a “terrible hole in my heart.”
It’s reported that the entire choir quit over the incident – approximately 35 to 40 people.
GoFundMe rallies support for Mr. Fred.
Szczepanski’s husband, Bill Thompson, launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover legal fees and living costs, as Szczepanski was left without severance. Over $38,000 has been raised so far, underscoring widespread support for him within the community.
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According to the Ticker, Lingaur has yet to comment, while Diocese officials emphasize employee privacy, stating that personnel decisions generally fall to local administrators. Critics argue the lack of diocesan intervention is a missed opportunity to show compassion.
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