The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
~ Each November, Catholic communities across the United States observe National Black Catholic History Month. This special time provides us with an opportunity to honor and celebrate the rich spiritual heritage, enduring faith, and profound contributions of Black Catholics throughout history. It is also a sacred moment to reflect on the lives of the “Saintly Seven”.
National Black Catholic History Month was first established in 1990 by the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus to recognize the remarkable legacy of Black Catholics in the United States. November was chosen for its significant feasts: All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day remind us of the universal call to holiness, and the feast day of St. Martin de Porres, the first Black saint of the Americas, falls on November 3rd. This month invites us to remember not only the saints in heaven but also those whose causes for canonization remind us that holiness knows no boundaries of race or culture.
The “Saintly Seven” refers to seven holy men and women of African descent who were born or who ministered in the United States whose lives are under consideration for sainthood by the Catholic Church. They are:
- Venerable Pierre Toussaint – Born enslaved in Haiti, Pierre became a beloved philanthropist in New York City, renowned for his charity, generosity, and deep faith.
- Venerable Henriette Delille – A free woman of color from New Orleans, she founded the Sisters of the Holy Family, dedicating her life to the education and care of the marginalized.
- Servant of God Mary Lange – Founder of the Oblate Sisters of Providence in Baltimore, the first religious community of women of African descent in the United States.
- Venerable Augustus Tolton – The first publicly recognized Black Catholic priest in the United States, Fr. Tolton’s perseverance and ministry broke barriers and inspired many.
- Servant of God Julia Greeley – Known as Denver’s “Angel of Charity,” she devoted her life to serving the poor, spreading devotion to the Sacred Heart, and promoting racial harmony.
- Servant of God Thea Bowman – A Franciscan Sister and educator, Sister Thea was a powerful advocate for Black Catholic spirituality, liturgy, and education. (I remember seeing and hearing Sr. Thea at an event in the late 1980’s at the Stouffer’s Inn downtown. It was thrilling!)
- Servant of God Martin de Porres Maria Ward – a Franciscan friar born in Boston who dedicated his priestly life to serving the poor as a missionary in Brazil.
The Saintly Seven are more than historical figures; their lives are testaments to the transformative power of faith and the universality of God’s call. Each faced unique struggles – racism, poverty, injustice – but responded with courage, love, and unwavering devotion to Christ and the Church. Their stories are woven into the fabric of American Catholicism and challenge us to build a church where every culture and heritage is valued and uplifted.
As we celebrate National Black Catholic History Month, let us pray for the canonization of the Saintly Seven and ask for their intercession. Let us learn from their examples – welcoming diversity, combating injustice, and deepening our commitment to the Gospel. May their memory inspire us at St. Margaret of Scotland Parish to recognize Christ in every person and work for justice and unity in our world. May this National Black Catholic History Month renew our gratitude for the gift of Black Catholics in the Church and our determination to walk together, as one family, in faith, hope, and love!