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Black Catholic Messenger

@blackcatholicmessenger.org
775 followers 6 following 622 posts

Nonprofit media in the tradition of Daniel Rudd's 'American Catholic Tribune' (1885-1897). Amplifying Black Catholic voices. Editor: Nate Tinner-Williams #ThatsTheMessage blackcatholicmessenger.org

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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 04/10/2026
“Don’t play with God!” In this Sunday’s Gospel reflection, Father Stephen Thorne explores Jesus’ parable of the vineyard and the responsibility we all share to do God’s work, pursue justice and bear good fruit. Read this week’s Sunday reflection: buff.ly/qNla64E
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 01/10/2026
Long before his beatification, Sheen had a decades-long relationship with the nation’s largest historically African American Catholic fraternal organization--the Knights of Peter Claver. Learn more about this history in our latest article: buff.ly/Xaaf9B9
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 27/09/2026
In a reflection shared by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Dr. Ansel Augustine turns to Scripture to remind us that while suffering is inevitable, it can also become an opportunity for transformation and deeper discipleship with Christ. Read the reflection at BCM: buff.ly/psuqP97
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 20/09/2026
📅 Have an upcoming event or opportunity for Black Catholics to know about? BCM is launching a monthly roundup of events, gatherings & opportunities. Submit by Sept. 25 for our October roundup! buff.ly/PtlRjwP Submission does not guarantee a feature.
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 18/09/2026
Why have there been so few Black Catholic bishops in the United States? When Bishop Robert Boxie sat down with Vatican Access with Robert Duncan, he was asked that very question. He laughed and responded, “How long do we have on this podcast?”
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 17/09/2026
Nearly 40 years later, we’re heading back to Hillman. 🎓 The A Different World reboot premieres Sept. 24 on Netflix, bringing a new generation of Black students to the iconic HBCU campus. Read our latest piece on the original show’s legacy and its return: buff.ly/BlCs7O6
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 12/09/2026
🎵 What can Sister Act teach us about the beauty of Black culture in the Catholic Church? More than 30 years later, the film offers a reflection on the joy, creativity, and gifts Black Catholics bring to the Church. Read the article here: buff.ly/cpE3FjN
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 08/09/2026
Whether you’ve been reading BCM for years, just discovered us, or simply want to see more resources created for and by Black Catholics — your voice matters. 📝 Take the survey and help us discern where God may be calling BCM next: buff.ly/XFQjrgD 📚️ Learn more about the survey: buff.ly/7P701jW
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 03/09/2026
🤖 What happens to our sense of purpose when AI reshapes our work? In his latest opinion piece, Black Catholic author and youth minister Joseph Peach reflects on how the rise of AI might actually offer an opportunity to rediscover our true identity and purpose in God. Read it now: buff.ly/XkgPaNh
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 03/09/2026
🚨Are you a Black Catholic man looking for faith, fellowship and community? You’re invited to attend the National Black Catholic Men’s Conference! Titled “The Rock I Stand On,” the gathering will take place in Birmingham, Alabama, Oct. 15–18. Read more: buff.ly/a7TOCxj
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 25/08/2026
What happens when Gregorian chant meets Black Catholic worship? For Dr. Darrell St. Romain, studying the Church’s ancient sacred music opened up new possibilities for the tradition that first formed him. Read more: buff.ly/ik9KFx6
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 20/08/2026
🎉 We’ve hit 300 registrants! Only 200 spots remain! Join us for an important conversation about the future of the Black Catholic Messenger as we enter this new era of leadership. Register now: buff.ly/MsWIhv4
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 13/08/2026
Congratulations to Xavier University of Louisiana, the nation’s only Catholic HBCU, on being named one of the nation’s top HBCUs by Forbes! Read more about the factors behind the ranking: buff.ly/lJCocIX
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 12/08/2026
🏆 A historic win for Frederick Richard. Black Catholic gymnast Frederick Richard has made history as the second Black man to win the all-around title at the U.S. national championships. Read more about Richard’s historic achievement here: buff.ly/9aqwdns (Photo: Anders Riishede/Shutterstock.com)
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 06/08/2026
📢 Black Catholics in Southern California: don't miss this! Blessed Sacrament Hollywood is hosting its first-ever Theology on Tap: Good Spirits: Black Catholic Conversations. 🗓️ Aug. 9 | 🕦 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Food, drinks, fellowship, and a reflection by William S. King. Read more: buff.ly/SKW3DrD
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 03/08/2026
🎉 We're entering a new chapter at Black Catholic Messenger! Be part of the conversation as we look to the future of Black Catholic media with leading journalists, creators, and storytellers. 🎟️ Register: buff.ly/V3EAjGK 📖 More information: buff.ly/ervtY0A
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 02/08/2026
St. Cecilia's in Detroit, one of the nation's best-known Black sports sites, has netted a $5M donation for renovation from LA Clippers owner Steve Ballmer. The long-dormant site was known as a breeding ground and meeting point for top basketball talent in the late 20th century. buff.ly/JPvCOOk
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 01/08/2026
Dr. M. Roger Holland II has been named a Pastoral Musician of the Year by the National Association of Pastoral Musicians, becoming the fourth African American to receive the honor. The Denver professor's Mass settings and hymns are used in Black Catholic parishes across the U.S. buff.ly/0OxUVHL
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 31/07/2026
"One wonders what is in store for them? When the time comes will they be ready? For the fate that befalls them." (From "FATE": a poem by Dorothy Dempsey.) www.blackcatholicmessenger.org/poem-fate/
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 30/07/2026
In a landmark new interview, Pope Leo XIV acknowledged enslaved persons and slaveholding among his ancestors, which genealogists discovered shortly after his election in the 2025 conclave. In comments to NBC News, the pontiff also teased a forthcoming visit to the United States. buff.ly/vflRxDe
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 30/07/2026
The Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary hosted their 110th national convention this month in Houston, uniting ~1,000 members for fellowship, fundraising, and the business of the order. The six-day gathering featured the centennial celebration for the women's division. buff.ly/gOU8W2n
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 27/07/2026
The pursuit of a superintelligence through AI has thus far featured gross exploitation and disregard for the basic principles of human dignity. Briana Jansky writes that we must change course as a society before it's too late. www.blackcatholicmessenger.org/building-bab...
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 27/07/2026
A new book covers the life of Sr Sandra Smithson, a pioneering Black Catholic who resisted religious racism and helped revolutionize education for the underserved in Nashville and beyond. Author Theresa Laurence spoke with BCM on why this biography is needed now more than ever. buff.ly/A1r52Xq
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 25/07/2026
The National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus held its convocation this week, bringing nearly 50 members to Houston for fellowship, encouragement, and celebration. Among the highlights was celebration of and with their own new prelate, Auxiliary Bishop Robert Boxie of Washington. buff.ly/rF7mrEJ
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 24/07/2026
Cam Obi, a music producer known for working with Chance the Rapper, Kendrick Lamar, and SZA, has been teasing his debut album for years, with excitement reaching a fever pitch. What most fans don't know, however, is that he is also now Catholic and excited to share his faith. buff.ly/jg9F2lW
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 23/07/2026
An autopsy of Nolan Wells, the Mississippi Black Catholic teen who died under mysterious circumstances on July 4, has found his cause of death to be "undetermined". The independent examination ordered by the family noted missing body parts and the need for further investigation. buff.ly/qYwUBOA
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 22/07/2026
As the meaning of family shifts rapidly, the traditional model is increasingly controversial or, to many, markedly obsolete. Efran Menny writes that while cultural differences must be respected, Catholics can present a meaningful vision that stands the test of time. buff.ly/uCwxUyk
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 21/07/2026
For Black Americans, one's hair can be a conundrum, a calling card, or even a creative way of displaying cultural pride. Tulio Huggins, who came of age in mostly non-Black environments, writes that wearing a durag unlocked a crucial spiritual node amid personal testing. buff.ly/8FLnxaA
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 19/07/2026
Pope Leo XIV's first encyclical—titled "Magnificent Humanity" in English—centers themes of disarming words, peace through justice, shifting perspectives, healthy realism, and dialogue. Daryl Grigsby's reading of the new text inspired reflection on the Black Catholic experience. buff.ly/ct8DkL5
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 18/07/2026
Encouraging openness to the spirit and to the foundational transcendentals, Rana Irby offers a new poem, "Hands and Spirit", resolving to virtue in its short span of wordful meditation. www.blackcatholicmessenger.org/hands-and-sp...
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 17/07/2026
The leaders of the U.S. Catholic Church see a vision for growth in certain sectors of society, focusing attention and resources there in an attempt to keep the ship afloat. Fabian Adderley asks: Where does that leave Black Catholics? www.blackcatholicmessenger.org/who-still-ne...
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 16/07/2026
Pope Leo XIV's recent comments on liberty inspire reflection on how America can live up to its original ideals in light of its complicated, anti-Black founding. Tamika Royes writes that this journey begins with acknowledging African-American resistance across North America. buff.ly/jDQllF9
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 15/07/2026
Fr Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Catholic Church in Chicago has been newly accused of sex abuse, prompting his suspension pending an investigation. The 77-year-old activist priest denies the claim, having been the target of other recent allegations that were found not credible. buff.ly/FnFfY5P
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 13/07/2026
Ascension Press will launch "Bible in a Year: Family Edition" in 2027 with Fr Josh Johnson, following up on the mega-popular podcast led by Fr Mike Schmitz. In an exclusive interview with BCM, Johnson shares his hopes for the new project. buff.ly/BfQJJtY
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 12/07/2026
Fr Bryan Massingale has received the John Courtney Murray Award from the Catholic Theological Society of America, honoring his advocacy on racial justice and LGBTQ+ issues. He is just the second Black person to receive the nation's top Catholic theological honor. buff.ly/XZi537x
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 10/07/2026
Growth in artificial intelligence technology has brought great wealth to a select few, leaving the poor out to dry in an age of mega-billionaires. Dr. Ronald E. Smith writes that the trillions being spent on AI should instead be used to uplift those most in need. buff.ly/7W7tOGA
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 08/07/2026
Robert Boxie III has been consecrated as Auxiliary Bishop of Washington, becoming the youngest Catholic prelate in the U.S. and the entire Western Hemisphere. The 45-year-old former Howard University chaplain is the first new African-American Catholic bishop in nearly a decade. buff.ly/ookON7d
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 06/07/2026
The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage concluded on Sunday, with a solemn procession drawing hundreds in downtown Philadelphia after a weekend of special events. Pope Leo XIV delivered a virtual address to the pilgrims, highlighting U.S. Catholic heritage and the primacy of Jesus. buff.ly/Ekp7yB9
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 05/07/2026
Sheila Hodges will succeed Nate Tinner-Williams as editor of Black Catholic Messenger and president of the BCM Foundation, effective August 1. The Harvard and Penn grad says she is "beyond excited" to help lead the publication into its next era. www.blackcatholicmessenger.org/bcm-transiti...
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 04/07/2026
Pope Leo XIV was celebrated this weekend for his reception of the Liberty Medal, an annual honor celebrating freedom figures around the globe. The American pontiff delivered a live virtual address and also released a public letter for the nation's 250th Independence Day. buff.ly/1HV3obG
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 03/07/2026
A planned library at the former Holy Rosary Institute in Lafayette, Louisiana, could soon be named for the late Dr. Norman Francis, a pioneering educator and alumnus who led Xavier University of Louisiana for 47 years. A vote this month will decide on the historic recognition. buff.ly/tzVtBXV
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 01/07/2026
A new poem points to the importance of Black Catholic identity in the face of historical erasure, championing Marian devotion in particular as a source of resistance and spiritual power. In her BCM debut, Zye E. Seema presents "I, too, sing Ave Maria". www.blackcatholicmessenger.org/i-too-sing-a...
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 30/06/2026
The late Bishop Emerson Moore, the first and only Black prelate in the Archdiocese of New York, was a trailblazer who faced various pressures that led to his death from AIDS complications in 1995. A deep dive into his rise shows a Catholic leader battling injustice—and himself. buff.ly/7ZjlpVz
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 28/06/2026
Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Lake Charles, Louisiana, has produced three Black Catholic bishops in its history, including one who will be consecrated in roughly a week. Dr. Alvin Schexnider writes that the parish, simply put, is a shining beacon of Black excellence. buff.ly/qbQAmv6
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 25/06/2026
Maryland State Del. Adrian Boafo has won the Democratic primary to succeed Rep. Steny Hoyer, his former boss on the Hill. The win likely secures a seat in the U.S. House for the 32-year-old lobbyist, whose campaign was flooded with cash from the Israel and crypto lobbies. buff.ly/TF3YHDk
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 24/06/2026
32-year-old Darializa Avila Chevalier has defeated a nine-year incumbent, Rep. Adriano Espaillat of New York, in the Democratic primary, sending shockwaves through the nation and party. The Afro-Latino Catholic lawmaker, 72, is chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. buff.ly/LuBb3V8
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 23/06/2026
Pope Leo XIV's first encyclical included an apology for the Vatican's role in slavery, sparking discussions about what it means for the Catholic Church to atone for its social sins. Tamika Royes writes that the pontiff's bountiful first step must be followed by further action. buff.ly/mXCQXCZ
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 22/06/2026
Finding a sense of belonging in the Catholic Church has often been a struggle for African Americans, due to neglect and even active exclusion. Dr. Antoinette Reaves writes that the Golden Rule can teach a better way—if only the people of God will learn and listen. buff.ly/STPle1n
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 21/06/2026
The history of what's now the US stretches back more than 500 years, including a Spanish Catholic settlement founded in the Deep South in 1526 and ending with a slave revolt. @jessehagopian.bsky.social writes that understanding the colony of San Miguel de Gualdape redefines freedom. buff.ly/MkhbIhO
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Black Catholic Messenger @blackcatholicmessenger.org · 20/06/2026
Robert White has won the Democratic primary for D.C.'s seat in the US. House, portending a surefire win this fall to succeed Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton. The Black Catholic attorney, 44, began his career as a Norton staffer and is set to be the first new officeholder since 1991. buff.ly/Sn597NI
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