Why We Celebrate

Black Catholic History Month is more than remembering the past. It is a time to:

     • Honor the lives of Black Catholic saints, leaders and everyday faithful who gave witness to Christ.
     • Recognize the ongoing contributions of Black Catholics in our parishes, schools and communities.
     • Deepen our commitment to justice, unity and holiness as one Body of Christ.

Learn About Black Catholic History

     • National Black Catholic Congress (NBCC): Offers history, resources and news about Black Catholic communities.

     • Black Catholic Messenger: Online publication highlighting stories, culture and issues important to Black Catholics today.

     • Archdiocese of Baltimore Resource Page: Features timelines, biographies and recommended reading.

Meet the “Saintly Seven”
Seven Black Catholics from the U.S. are currently on the path to sainthood:
     • Venerable Pierre Toussaint
     • Venerable Henriette Delille
     • Venerable Augustus Tolton
     • Servant of God Mother Mary Lange
     • Servant of God Julia Greeley
     • Servant of God Sr. Thea Bowman
     • Servant of God Friar Martin de Porres Maria Ward

Explore & Discover

A Place at the Table: African Americans on the Path to Sainthood
A stirring two-hour documentary by Stella Maris Films that profiles the six U.S. Black Catholics currently on the path to sainthood. One reviewer described it as “inspiring hope with U.S. Black Catholic saints-to-be.”

A “Saint a Day” Resource
Spotlights a different Black Catholic figure each day in November, offering short and enriching biographies. A wonderful way to deepen your knowledge throughout the month.

Black Catholic History Month Facts & Timeline
Explore crucial milestones, including the founding of Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose (the first free Black town in the United States) and the witness of enslaved Catholics in early colonial Florida.

Family Learning Ideas

     • Pray using the Black Catholic Rosary, with themed mysteries and prayers for November.
     • Learn about notable Black Catholics using resources from the National Black Catholic Congress.
     • Read inspiring stories of Black Christians at bedtime (books below).
     • Diversify saint collections (peg dolls, holy cards, books) to include Black saints.
     • On the Road to Sainthood – download this Loyola Press activity for children.
     • Download the Diocese of Erie fun worksheet for children here.

Family Reading List
Lower Elementary (ages 4–8)
     • Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom — a reverent picture book showing Harriet’s deep prayer life and courage.
     • Saints Like Me: Great Black Catholic Saints — a board book featuring incredible Black Catholics from around the world.
     • The Story of Ruby Bridges — the true story of a six-year-old girl who integrated her school, showing heroic faith and forgiveness.
     • Martin de Porres: The Rose in the Desert — introduces children to St. Martin de Porres, patron of racial harmony and social justice.
Middle School (ages 9–13)
     • Thea Bowman: Faithful and Free — biography of Sr. Thea Bowman, a joyful Franciscan sister and champion of justice.
     • Black Catholics on the Road to Sainthood — reflections and biographies of the six U.S. Black Catholics on the path to canonization.

Family Challenge: Visit your local library and find a new book about a Black Christian, Black Catholic, or historical Black leader not on this list. Share what you discover together!

Stay Connected

Follow diocesan social media throughout November for quotes and scripture that honor the lives and witness of Black Catholics.

Join Us in Prayer

We invite all the faithful to pray during this month for unity in the church, healing in our nation and strength for those who continue to walk the path of faith with hope.

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:28

Prayer card (To download: Right-click and "Save As.")