Black Catholic History Mass celebrates an ongoing legacy
On Nov. 9, about 200 worshippers gathered at Saint Anastasia Parish in Teaneck, N.J., to celebrate a Mass honoring Black Catholic History. Guest celebrant, Father Patrick Winbush, O.S.B., said in his homily that the Catholic Church “is built upon the contributions of all members, regardless of race or background.”
“Each of us plays a vital role in this divine structure,” Father Winbush said, “and the unique gifts and perspectives that our Black Catholic brothers and sisters bring are invaluable.”
Celebrated throughout November, Black Catholic History Month was established in 1990 through the advocacy of the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus. The month honors not only saints of African descent but also the more than 200 million Black Catholics worldwide who play a vital role in the life of the Church.
“Celebrating Black Catholic History Month is more than just remembering the past,” said Father Winbush. “It’s about recognizing the ongoing contributions and struggles of Black Catholics in our time. It is about ensuring that their voices are heard and that their stories are woven into the larger narrative of our church. This celebration calls us to reflect on our own biases and to commit to building a more inclusive church, one that mirrors the diverse body of Christ.”
Recalling men and women who enrich and inspire
In his homily, Father Winbush pointed to Black Catholic figures “who have played an integral role in the development of our faith,” such as St. Augustine of Hippo, a Doctor of the Church, and Sister Thea Bowman, the 20th-century nun who “passionately advocated for the inclusion and recognition of African American culture within the Church.” He also called attention to three Black Catholic prelates who stood out as advocates for social justice: the late Bishop Joseph Francis, an Auxiliary Bishop of Newark; Bishop Emeritus Edward K. Braxton, of the Diocese of Belleville, IL; and Cardinal Wilton Gregory, Archbishop Emeritus of Washington, D.C.
“They remind us that our faith is not solely about personal piety, but also about our collective responsibility to address the injustice in our society. They inspire us to examine our hearts and to take action on behalf of those who are marginalized,” Father Winbush said.
He also encouraged people to learn about the seven Black Catholics from the U.S. who are candidates for sainthood: Father Augustus Tolton, the first Black Catholic priest in the U.S.; Pierre Toussaint, a Haitian American layman renowned for his charity; Mother Mary Elizabeth Lang, foundress of the Oblate Sisters of Providence; Henriette DeLille, foundress of the Sisters of the Holy Family; Julia Greeley, known as “Denver’s Angel of Mercy;” Sister Thea Bowman; and Friar Martin de Porress Maria Ward, a Conventual Franciscan from Boston who ministered in Brazil for more than forty years.
“The contributions of Black Catholics flow through the Church, enriching our communal life and bringing diverse perspectives that lead to a deeper understanding of God’s love and mercy,” Father Winbush said.
“Here to stay”
The Black Catholic History Mass, which has been celebrated at Saint Anastasia’s for around five years, is organized by the parish’s Black Catholic Ministry. As many in the congregation gathered for refreshments and fellowship after Mass, two ministry members spoke to Jersey Catholic about the importance of the Black Catholic History Mass and the ministry’s other activities to Saint Anastasia’s parish community.
“We have poured our hearts into the church and want the community to recognize that we’ve been here since the beginning, we are here, and we are here to stay,” Georgette Delinois. She said that the Black Catholic History Mass is not only educational for the parish but also brings people together.
Levonne Turner, a coordinator for Saint Anastasia Black Catholics, said that the ministry has been active in the parish for more than 20 years. They host numerous events throughout the year. “All are welcome,” she said. “We celebrate our diversity, which means everyone, including people from outside the parish.”
“The pride and joy of being Catholic is something dear to us,” Delinois added. “We are all worshipping the same God, the same Jesus Christ. I’ve been part of the ministry since its inception, and I am here to stay.”
To view more photos from the Black Catholic History Mass, click HERE.
Learn more about the Archdiocese of Newark’s African American, African and Caribbean Apostolate.
Featured image: The Black Catholic History Mass was celebrated at Saint Anastasia Catholic Church on Nov. 9, 2025. (Photos by John Touhey / Archdiocese of Newark)
