Redemptorist Fr. John Phelps Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

Life Directions recently honored our own Fr. John Phelps with their Lifetime Achievement Award at the Spark of Hope Tribute Gala in Detroit. In 1973 Fr. Phelps co-founded Life Directions which is committed to addressing the root causes of violence and instability among young adults. Fr. Phelps has been a tireless advocate for at-risk youth, while exemplifying the power of passion and community in affecting positive change.

Fr. John, a Redemptorist, along with co-founders Fr. Alex Steinmiller, a Passionist, Sr. Rosalie Esquerra, an Adrian Dominican, and Alex and Judy MacDonald laid the foundation for a transformative approach to youth development.

Throughout his notable career, Fr. John has garnered numerous accolades and honors, each a testament to his unwavering dedication to service and advocacy, including the Humanitarian Award bestowed upon him by Southwestern High School to the Civic Citation Award from the City of Detroit, and a Tribute of Recognition from the State Legislature for his work with Detroit youth. The focus is on his involvement in Detroit Public Schools.

His work has been published in the Detroit News and Free Press and the Michigan Chronicle. His many media appearances underscore his ability to articulate the pressing concerns facing young people today.

Whether speaking on radio programs like “Kelly and Company” or television shows such as WGN-TV and WLS-TV in Chicago, his insights have resonated with audiences far and wide. As Life Directions celebrates over five decades of impact, it is clear that Fr. John’s legacy will endure as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

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