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Black Catholic Ministry has received a grant through The National Black Catholic Congress for the successful implementation of Obaro Village: Rooted and Rising, a summer youth academy designed for middle school students. The program will focus on college and career exploration, art‑infused STEM learning, and Catholic formation rooted in Black Catholic spirituality and the early Church in Africa.
Program Name
Obaro Village: Rooted and Rising (“Obaro” meaning “Future” in the Urhobo language of Nigeria) will serve 40–50 rising sixth to ninth graders from the African Diaspora—including African American, African, Afro‑Caribbean, immigrant, refugee, and unchurched youth—who often face barriers to educational equity, spiritual engagement, and cultural affirmation.
Program Dates
Session 1: June 13–June 19
Session 2: July 11–July 17
Program Description
Obaro Village aims to empower participants through STEAM education, faith formation, leadership development, academic intrigue, career exploration, and community building. The program weaves Black Catholic spirituality with cultural dignity through immersive STEAM activities, college exposure, and intergenerational mentorship. Youth engage in daily prayer, inclusive liturgies, and reflections on Black saints and leaders whose lives exemplify devotion to Christ, resilience, and unwavering faith. STEAM sessions taught through a culturally responsive lens include plant‑based cyanotype prints, battery‑powered robotics, and mini soap box derby cars that blend creativity, physics, and engineering—activities designed to combat summer learning loss and build academic confidence.
Campers will also use media and storytelling to document family and community faith journeys, sharing stories through digital platforms to evangelize and inspire. Music, dance, and cultural arts rooted in African and Black Christian traditions will deepen spiritual connection and praise. College and career exposure is a key component, with field trips to local colleges and universities such as Marian University and Butler University. In the future, Black Catholic Ministry hopes to take campers to Xavier University of Louisiana, the nation’s first and only historically Black Catholic university (HBCU). These experiences—combined with mentoring from Black Catholic leaders, service projects, and vocational discernment—prepare youth to thrive as spiritually grounded, purpose‑driven leaders.
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