New documentary covers Servant of God Julia Greeley, Colorado's formerly enslaved saint-to-be
By Nate Tinner-Williams | Black Catholic Messenger
A new mini-documentary covers the life of Servant of God Julia Greeley, a formerly enslaved Denver philanthropist and one of the seven African Americans on the path to Catholic sainthood.
The 13-minute short film, “Julia Greeley: Servant of the Sacred Heart,” is directed by John “JP” Kloess and produced by the Capuchin Franciscans. It was released on YouTube and Facebook June 27, which this year was the feast of the Sacred Heart—Julia’s most cherished devotion.
| | Click the play button below to watch the documentary. | | Religion, Racism & Reconciliation | | |
“Religion, Racism & Reconciliation” is a ground-breaking documentary that explores the ways in which racism intertwined with American religion. It follows the stories of individuals and communities of faith who are engaged in addressing the issues of systemic racism, such as — voting rights, income inequality and mass incarceration.
We hear from a broad range of academic and religious luminaries who provide historical and sociological perspectives on the contradiction of an American society that values individual freedom and equality while ignoring the realities of slavery, segregation and racism. The documentary shows that while religion plays a part in our racial division, it also is a meaningful force in our nation’s healing and reconciliation.
| | Featuring: Bishop William Barber II, Yale University; Dr. Eddie Glaude, Jr., Princeton University; Jim Wallis, Georgetown University; & Rev. Kelly Brown-Douglas, Union Theological Seminary. | | Click the play button below to watch the trailer. Click the 'Register Now' button to receive a free ticket to view the entire documentary. | | |
Donate to Texas Flood Relief
“Catholic Charities USA is mobilizing to support those impacted by the devastating floods in Texas. Lives have been lost. Families are without their homes, belongings, and access to basic necessities. Your donation can help provide food, shelter, and essential emergency relief. Help bring hope and recovery to those affected: Give to the Texas Flood Relief. Go to www.catholiccharitiesusa.org or use the QR code on the image.”
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In Chicago, Pope Leo XIV’s Creole and African roots create a stir
The historic election of the first American pope has sparked pride in Black communities who trace his roots to Louisiana, Haiti and the city’s Black community.
Erick Johnson reports | The Voice
| | | The Transfiguration of Christ, Onoufrios of Neokastro (Elbasan), Public domain | |
God’s economy is based on self-gift, not profit
This year, four anniversaries can teach Catholics about the true meaning of Christian philanthropy.
By Byron Wratee | US Catholic
As the current Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cuts government aid, I have been reflecting on what social conscience requires of us as Catholics. Catholic social teaching emphasizes that we are to champion human dignity, promote access to the common good, stand in solidarity with others striving for dignified lives, and support subsidiarity to foster human flourishing at the grassroots level. Most philanthropists—people who love humanity, regardless of their faith commitments—would agree with these points, but I believe authentic Christian philanthropy calls us to go still further.
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Ghanaian nun's association supports widows who face dehumanizing traditional rites
By Damian Avevor | Global Sisters Report
Sr. Gabriel Nonaah of the Sisters of Mary Immaculate in Ghana was moved by the cruel treatment faced by many widows in the name of traditional rites by some tribes in the country. In 1985, she established St. Monica Widows Association in the Daffiama-Bussie-Issa District in the Upper West Region of Ghana to provide these vulnerable women with empowerment, education and self-reliance.
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Holy, Independent: Meet 12 of the Many Americans on the Path to Sainthood
A look at some of the many American men and women poised for sainthood.
Nearly 100 American men and women from the United States are currently being considered for sainthood. And many Catholics hope that Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pope, will soon beatify or canonize some new American saints — perhaps even the first African American saint.
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XULA medical school leaders speak on health equity at 2025 Essence Fest panel
XULA President Dr. C. Reynold Verret and Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine dean Dr. Leonardo Seoane spoke on the state of Black healthcare.
By Nate Tinner-Williams | Black Catholic Messenger
NEW ORLEANS — Leaders of the nation’s forthcoming Black Catholic medical school, Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, joined fellow health experts on a panel this week discussing the future of diverse healthcare in America.
The event, part of the Global Black Economic Forum’s 2025 Global Business Summit, took place in partnership with the Essence Festival, a yearly event that celebrates Black culture and brings hundreds of thousands of Black Americans each year to the Crescent City.
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‘Saving African lives’ - Cardinal Ambongo on USAID
"Gratitude is such a powerful aspect of international politics."
From The Pillar
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo is not afraid to call it like he sees it.
Since Pope Francis elevated him to the College of Cardinals in 2019, Ambongo has gained a reputation for speaking directly about the needs of the Church, and the needs of his people.
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What is a Sodality? How can you be part of one, or begin a Sodality at your parish?
The Sodality of Our Lady is a religious society, the purpose of which is to foster in its members a devotion to Our Blessed Lady that will manifest itself in personal holiness and Catholic Action. It is an organized apostolate.
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