Screengrab from Archdiocese of Detroit, via YouTube
CV NEWS FEED // Second-grader Hunter Nannoshi noticed that Detroit Lions kicker Riley Patterson wore a cross during games, so he decided to give him a rosary, Detroit Catholic reported earlier this week.
Hunter attends St. William School in Walled Lake. In a November 19 game against the Chicago Bears, the young student met Patterson, an outspoken Christian.
“I noticed at the start of the football season, when Riley would go out there to kick, he was wearing a cross around his neck,” Hunter told Detroit Catholic.
When Hunter’s family got field passes, Hunter was thrilled to attend his first Lions game.
“I have a rosary that is the same color as the Lions colors. And when my dad told me he got us tickets to the game, I brought it with me to give it to Riley,” Hunter said.
Hunter was able to give the rosary to a field personnel worker, who brought it to Patterson.
After receiving the gift, Patterson ran over to Hunter, thanked him, and gave him a football. He then took a photo with Hunter and his neighbor, Christian Johnson, who was there with him.
“He asked me for my name, I told him, ‘Hunter.’ He said, ‘God bless you, Hunter,’ and I said the same back,” Hunter said. “I told him I wanted to give him the rosary because him and I believed in Jesus.”
A video capturing the moment of the two meeting was shared on social media.
“Riley Patterson is my favorite athlete, and I hope he wins the Super Bowl. And most important, that he stays healthy and blessed from Jesus,” Hunter said.
When Hunter’s dad, Ivan, thanked Patterson, the kicker told him that although he isn’t Catholic, he was grateful for the gesture and will keep the rosary in a special place.
“As a parent, all you want is for your children to have faith and not be afraid to tell others about Jesus,” Ivan said. “We are so proud Hunter is not shy about telling others about Jesus.”
Hunter hopes that the Lions, who are currently on track to win their first division title since 1992, will win with the help of the rosary.
“I hope the rosary will help them win, but most importantly, for them to stay healthy and that God blesses our families,” Hunter said. “I’m very blessed to have this experience.”