Black Catholic History Month

The Catholic Church in the United States celebrates Black Catholic History Month in November. It is an important time for us to reflect on the faithful witness of Black Catholics and the critical roles they play in the life of the Church.

Many Black Catholics have walked the path to holiness, showing through example how to grow close to Our Lord despite tremendous adversity. Their lives have also contributed to the growth and mission of the Church in the United States, yet they have been underappreciated. Six notable examples of African Americans who all have causes for canonization in Rome are the Venerables Pierre Toussaint, Mother Mary Lange, Henriette Delille and Father Augustus Tolton, and Servants of God Julie Greeley and Sr. Thea Bowman.

Locally in the Diocese of Arlington, Venerable Mother Mary Lange had a positive influence on the African American Catholic community. She faced numerous challenges, including violence and racism in Baltimore in the mid-19th century. Despite these difficulties, she continued to educate and house the poor and needy. She founded the Oblate Sisters of Providence in 1829, the first religious order for African American women. St. Joseph Catholic School in Alexandria was blessed by the presence and work of the Oblate sisters who taught at the school for many years. In preparation for our Golden Jubilee next year, we have been reflecting on our diocesan history. What a privilege it has been for our diocesan parishioners to have benefited directly from the life and witness of such a holy woman.