African-American Catholics have contributed substantially to the shaping of communities across the country. Currently there are six African-Americans in the early stages of examination for sainthood. Their life stories and witness to the Gospel demonstrate the importance of generosity, faith, and perseverance in the midst of challenges and at times, experiences of racism. FOCUS highlights potential and current saints of African descent, and shares Catholic teaching that encourages all believers to speak out against racism. Read more…
With Gratitude for African-American Catholics
Michigan Catholic Conference is pleased to provide materials intended to be of assistance toward facilitating a deeper understanding of Black and African-American Catholics and their contributions to the life of the Church in the United States. While many Americans are familiar with trailblazers such as Sojourner Truth, Frederick Douglas and Jackie Robinson, less is known about the heroic lives of Fr. Augustus Tolton, Henriette Delille, or Sister Thea Bowman, among others. The resources below are intended to be of assistance toward broadening the awareness of Black and African-American Catholics and their Gospel-driven perseverance through profound racial and societal challenges. We also invite readers to become more familiar with “America’s Second Independence Day” – Juneteenth – celebrated annually on June 19. Download the Focus publication for additional resources and information.
Focus Essay
Social Media Graphics
Additional Reading
- The Word from Lansing: With Gratitude for African-American Catholics
- National Museum of African American History and Culture: Juneteenth, A Celebration of Resilience
- USCCB: Open Wide Our Hearts, An Enduring Call to Love (Pastoral Letter Against Racism)
- USCCB Resources to Combat Racism
- USCCB National Black Catholic Sites
Highlighted Saints of African Descent
- St. Charles Lwanga
- St. Josephine Bakhita
- St. Benedict the Moor
- St. Martin de Porres
- St. Perpetua and St. Felicity
Sainthood Causes for African-American Catholics
- Venerable Pierre Toussaint
- Venerable Henriette Delille
- Venerable Fr. Augustus Tolton
- Servant of God Mother Mary Lange
- Servant of God Julia Greeley
- Servant of God Sr. Thea Bowman