Sisters of Mercy Celebrate Black Catholic History Month

November 5, 2020

In November, we celebrate Black Catholic History Month, established in 1990 by the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus of the United States. November is the appropriate month for this celebration because it marks special days for two prominent Catholics of color: St. Martin de Porres, whose feast day is November 3, and St. Augustine of Hippo, whose birthday is on November 13.

This year, especially—one in which we witness not only racial injustice and race-based violence in the United States, but also a global pandemic that has disproportionately affected people of color—we raise up our Black brothers and sisters as we continue to pray for and advocate fair and just treatment of all people. 

Our weekly blog series this year features a reflection on what it means to be Black and Catholic in this current cultural climate. We look at the Garifuna Lives Matter movement that promotes respect for a minority African group in Honduras. Also, we celebrate the appointment of the first African-American cardinal from the U.S. 

Watch a short video featuring Sister Cora Marie Billings discussing Black Catholic History Month, anti-racism and the six African Americans currently in the canonization process:

To read our blog series from 2019, click here.

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  1. Jean Strawbridge

    Dear Cora, for this direct, peaceful challenge to deepen my commitment to anti-racism I am grateful. Your life long example calling me to greater awareness and action is a blessing. In mercy, Jean


  2. Mary Daly

    Thank you, Cora, for your heartfelt words and timely reminder.


  3. Doris Gottemoeller

    Thank you, Cora, for reminding us that “if we are not part of the solution, we are part of the problem.” May our whole Mercy family commit to being part of the solution.”


  4. Claudette Schiratti

    Thank you, Cora, for this reminder of Black Catholic history Month.


  5. Sister Eileen Pazmino

    Cora, thanks so much for inspiring me and sharing our commitment with all of us.


  6. Patricia Cook

    How I appreciate your candor and direct challenge to us about our critical concern on antiracism, dear Cora.
    It resonated deeply for me.

    Thanks and blessings to you.
    Patty


  7. Mike Poulin

    Thank you for this and all you do, Sister Cora Marie


  8. Cathleen Cahill, RSM

    Thank you, Cora Marie. It’s is always a pleasure to hear your voice so clear and convincing.


  9. Christine Blair

    Thank you so much for the gentle reminders of what Black History means to us. And for nudging me forward to more action.