Catholic Caucus: In celebration of Black Catholic History Month

usa catholic ^ | Caitlyn Schmid

[Coleus]

Did you know that November is Black Catholic History Month?

This month, we’re honoring the men and women from Africa who have pioneered the faith! Many forget that Christianity didn’t start in Europe. Black Catholics have had a huge impact on the history and traditions of Christianity. The church has been celebrating Black Catholic History Month since 1990 when the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus of the United States instigated it. November seemed appropriate because it holds special days for two prominent African Catholics: St. Augustine whose birthday is on November 13, and St. Martin de Porres whose feast day is celebrated on November 3.

Three popes—Saints Victor I, Melchiades, and Gelasius I—were born in Africa and led the early church though much turmoil. There are also many Black Catholic saints (Monica of Hippo, Augustine of Hippo, Perpetua, and Felicitas to name a few) and leaders (such as Rev. Augustus Tolton and Daniel Rudd) whose actions and witnesses of faith helped shape the church into what it is today.

The National Catholic Reporter is highlighting the fascinating history of a different black saint for every day of the month. They are well worth the read. If you want to know more about the history of black Catholics, check out our timeline by Father Cyprian Davis, O.S.B. Also from Father Cyprian, here are five people’s stories that talk about the history of black Catholics. In 2002, the editors of U.S. Catholic also interviewed Father J. Glenn Murray, S.J. who tells us what an African American perspective can contribute to the liturgy.

These are only a few resources for you to take a look at. Read more about the history and traditions and then join us in the celebration of black Catholics!

[Coleus]

https://www.nbccongress.org/

 

[GoldenState_Rose]

So grateful for African Catholics and Anglicans for preserving the integrity of the faith and its traditions. In my time abroad in Europe, I always noticed how African expats were sustaining the churches many have abandoned.

[heterosupremacist]

The Venerable Pierre Toussaint (27 June 1766 – June 30, 1853) Philanthropist, Layman Born 27 June 1766 Saint-Marc, Artibonite, Saint-Domingue (now Haiti) Died 30 June 1853 (aged 87) New York City, New York, United States of America Venerated in Roman Catholic Church Major shrine St. Patrick's Cathedral Due to his devout and exemplary life, the Roman Catholic Church has been investigating his life for possible canonization and in 1996 he was declared "Venerable" by Pope John Paul II, the second step in the process. Toussaint is the first layperson to be buried in the crypt below the main altar of Saint Patrick's Cathedral on Fifth Avenue, normally reserved for bishops of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York.