Fred Szczepanski, affectionately known as “Mr. Fred,” was fired from his position as music director at St. Francis Catholic Church in Traverse City, Michigan, after church officials learned about his 2020 same-sex marriage to Bill Thompson. The dismissal followed an anonymous letter sent to church leaders, which revealed that Szczepanski had married in Nevada. Rev. Michael Lingaur, who recently assumed leadership at the church, confirmed the firing on October 18, just three months before Szczepanski’s planned retirement in January 2024.

Szczepanski had been a beloved fixture in the church and the local community for 34 years. He played a central role in the church’s music ministry, organizing services, planning music for holidays, and providing support to grieving parishioners. His musical talents, including perfect pitch and skill on the piano, were widely appreciated. “I look forward to going to church every week because of him,” said longtime choir member Bob Holden. “He’s extremely talented… and because of him, I feel connected to the church.” Other parishioners expressed concerns about the fairness of the decision, with some questioning whether divorced individuals or others with personal histories might be targeted next.

The firing has led to widespread protests. On the following Sunday, parishioners gathered outside the church holding signs that read “Love Not Hate” and “Fired Not Retired,” while choir members staged a silent protest by refusing to sing.

Szczepanski’s husband, Bill Thompson, took to Facebook to express his anger and sadness over the termination, explaining that they had married quietly in 2020 to secure legal rights during the pandemic. Thompson emphasized that the couple never “flaunted” their marriage and did not have a celebration, but the church’s decision to terminate Fred’s employment was based solely on the fact of their marriage.

In response to the incident, the Diocese of Gaylord, which oversees St. Francis Church, said that personnel decisions are handled at the parish level, but that it takes employee privacy seriously. A diocesan spokesperson confirmed that Bishop Jeffrey Walsh supported the pastor’s decision but declined to provide further comments on the matter.

In light of the firing, Szczepanski’s supporters have launched a GoFundMe campaign, raising over $22,000 to help cover legal and insurance expenses. Choir member Liz Yarch highlighted Szczepanski’s deep personal commitment to the church, stating, “Fred does more than just play the piano… he steps in for people who don’t have family, making sure there’s a support network.” The incident has sparked a broader conversation about LGBTQ+ rights, church policies, and the intersection of faith and inclusivity.