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320 Cathdral Street / Baltimore, MD 21201
Ph. 410.547.8496
Email: nbcc@nbccongress.org
Web: www.nbccongress.orgCr
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Stay Safe This Winter:
Essential Do's and Don'ts for Navigating Cold Weather.
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Here's the age when shoveling snow becomes 'very dangerous'
Luckily, there are safer ways to clear your driveway or sidewalk.
By Stephanie Dolgoff| Good Housekeeping
An “age is just a number” mindset is fantastic when it comes to things like writing your first novel later in life or learning a new instrument.
But one place it does not apply is when it comes to shoveling snow, which so many of us do every winter. The incidence of sudden heart attack spikes some 16% in some men when it snows, particularly if it’s a big storm, leading to a 34% rise in deaths, a large, two-decade Canadian study found.
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Recognizing the Symptoms of Hypothermia: What You Need to Know
Excerpt from article by Justin Thygerson for the Public Service Group
There are three main types of hypothermia: mild, moderate and severe. All of these are based on core body temperature. Often taking core body temperature is not possible for many reasons in remote locations. Becoming familiar with the signs of hypothermia can help to determine if a person may have hypothermia.
Signs of Mild Hypothermia
- Vigorous, uncontrollable shivering
- Awake and alert
- Complains of painful cold feet and hands.
- Can answer questions
- The person mumbles, grumbles, fumbles, stumbles and tumbles (the “umbles”).
Signs of Moderate Hypothermia
- Shivering stops
- The “umbles” worsen
- May be sleepy and not want to move much
- Confused about surroundings
- Skin is bluer or paler than baseline color and cold when touched
Signs of Severe Hypothermia
- Barely responsive
- Rigid and stiff muscles
- Skin feels ice cold and appears blue
- Slow shallow or absent breathing
- Weak, slow or absent heartbeat
- Appears dead with no signs of life
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In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
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Two Journeys. One Faith.
Television Broadcast Events and Streaming from the Black and Indian Mission Office
Experience two powerful new documentaries celebrating the faith, culture, and resilience of Native American and African American Catholics.
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Trailblazers of Faith: The Legacy of African American Catholics
Trailblazers of Faith tells the extraordinary story of Black Catholics who transformed struggle into witness — building schools, founding communities, and shaping the heart of the American Church.
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Walking the Sacred Path: The Story of the Black and Indian Mission Office
A hidden chapter of American faith comes to light as Native Catholics weave ancient tradition and the Gospel into a single, resilient witness—healing old wounds and renewing the Church today.
| | | Today, January 28, 2026, the Catholic Church celebrates the Memorial of St. Thomas Aquinas, a 13th-century Dominican friar, philosopher, and theologian. | | |
Why is St. Thomas Aquinas called the “Angelic Doctor”?
By Philip Kosloski | Aleteia
This saintly nickname tells us a lot about Aquinas' holy life and gifted work.
One of the most highly regarded saints of the Catholic Church is St. Thomas Aquinas, often referred to as the "Angelic Doctor."
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The Secret of Happiness is Surrender
By Laura Dittus | National Catholic Register
Almost 10 years ago now (article published May 2020) I went on a missionary trip to Ecuador. While I was left with a number of images and impressions from that trip, one that has remained with me was an encounter with one of the full-time missionaries as the pickup truck we were using was pulling away from the site where she was assigned. She called out to our group as we were leaving: “The secret of happiness is surrender!”
This phrase struck me then as I thought of how those words came from someone living the authenticity of a sacrificial life at the service of others, being away from one’s family and own country, and experiencing the daily crosses, and joys, of living in a developing country.
| | The Surrender Novena is a nine-day devotion based on the words Jesus spoke to Servant of God Father Dolindo Ruotolo, an Italian priest known for his deep spiritual life and mystical experiences. The novena teaches us what true surrender really means—not a passive resignation, but a confident, childlike trust that places everything entirely in His hands. Each day, Jesus reminds us that our anxious striving often gets in the way of His grace, and that peace comes when we stop trying to direct God and simply let Him act. As Jesus Himself says on Day 9: "A thousand prayers cannot equal one single act of surrender." | | |
Catholic Leaders Gather 3,000 Nationwide for “Taken, Broken, Shared” Vigil and Call to Action
By Michelle Sherman | Pax Christi USA
Pax Christi USA, the Ignatian Solidarity Network, the Josephites, NETWORK, and several national Catholic partner organizations brought together more than 3,000 participants from across the country on January 27 for "Taken, Broken, Shared: Catholics Gather Nationwide to Discern Faithful Public Witness," a 75‑minute online vigil and reflection. Rooted in prayer, testimony, and Catholic Social Teaching, the gathering responded to recent immigration enforcement tactics in Minnesota that community leaders say violate human dignity.
Led by emcee Charlene Howard, with musical leadership from Christian Bentley and a closing prayer from Bishop John Ricard, the event invited Catholics to deepen their commitment to justice and collective action.
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Check out this Pax Christi event for Black History Month:
Sr. Dr. Thea Bowman, taking courage through prayer, study, and action
Monday, February 9, 7 PM Eastern/4 PM Pacific
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Brief prayers to pray the next time you check your phone
By Philip Kosloski | Aleteia
According to recent statistics, most Americans check their phones an average of 186 times per day. This means all throughout the day, typically starting when a person wakes up in the morning until they put their phone down before falling asleep, we are repeatedly taking a look at our screens.
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This largest sculpture of St. Charbel sends a vital message
By Cerith Gardiner | Aleteia
| | More than 20,000 worshippers gathered on a Sydney street late Thursday evening, drawn not by spectacle, but by devotion. They came to witness the installation of what is now the world’s largest monumental bronze sculpture of St. Charbel — a striking four-meter-high (13-foot) depiction of the saint’s face, lifted into place atop St. Charbel’s Monastery | | 2 new miracles reported through intercession of St. Charbel in 2026 | | |
Two new miracles have been attributed to St. Charbel already in 2026 — one in the United States and one in Lebanon.
By Romy Haber | EWTN News
Two new miracles attributed to St. Charbel Makhlouf have been reported since the beginning of 2026 — one in the United States and one in Lebanon — each involving the healing of a woman against all medical expectation.
| | Passing of Fr. Victor Laroche, OP | | The Dominican Friars have published the funeral schedule. You will find that information by clicking the button below. | | |
With sadness, we report the passing of Fr. Victor Laroche, OP, chaplain, Xavier University of Louisiana.
This message was shared through the Xavier University of Louisiana's Facebook page:
Xavier University of Louisiana mourns the sudden passing of Father Victor Laroche, O.P., University Chaplain and Special Assistant to the President for Catholic Identity, a beloved pastoral presence whose ministry profoundly shaped the spiritual life of campus. Click here to view the post: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1196179612710693&set=a.549168837411777
The Black Catholic Messenger posted an obit/story about the life and work of Fr. Laroche, OP. You can find the article here: https://www.blackcatholicmessenger.org/fr-victor-laroche-op-obit/
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Celebrating the Life Of Leodia Gooch
With deep sorrow, we share the news of the transition of Esteemed Leodia M. Gooch, the Tenth Supreme Lady of the Knights of Peter Claver, Ladies Auxiliary, who faithfully served from 1994 to 2000.
Gracious Lady Gooch’s life was marked by extraordinary achievement and unwavering dedication. A highly respected attorney, she championed homeownership, held key administrative roles within the Archdiocese of St. Louis, and served as the second Executive Director of the National Black Catholic Congress beginning in 1990.
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Funeral Service:
January 31, 2026 at 11:00 AM
St. Norbert Catholic Church
16455 New Halls Ferry Road, Florissant, MO 63031
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A few words from Most Reverend John H. Ricard, Superior General of the Josephites, on Leodia Gooch's service as Executive Director of the NBCC
"Leodia was a wonderful person who was a joy to work with. She will be remembered for her great contribution to the growth and development of the Church among Black Catholics. May her family be consoled by her passing. May she rest in peace."
Bishop Ricard served as President of the National Black Catholic Congress during Leodia Gooch's time as Executive Director.
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Pastoral Plan for Congress VII
The Congress VII Pastoral Plan of Action was developed under the leadership and direction of Leodia Gooch, then Executive Director of the National Black Catholic Congress, as a faithful response to the lived realities, spiritual needs, and prophetic call of Black Catholics in the United States. Rooted in prayer, communal discernment, and the rich heritage of Black Catholic faith and witness, the plan reflects a collective commitment to evangelization, justice, leadership development, and the strengthening of families and communities. It stands as both a guiding framework and a moral compass, calling the Church to action through collaboration, accountability, and an unwavering trust in the movement of the Holy Spirit within the Black Catholic community.
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Reflection from Therese Wilson Favors on the Impact of Leodia Gooch’s Leadership in the Congress Movement
“Leodia brought hope, confidence, and strong leadership to the Congress Movement. She was deeply inclusive—drawing in resourceful partners like the Knights of Peter Claver, whose engagement greatly strengthened the 1992 Congress in New Orleans. Skilled at navigating Church systems while inspiring the faithful to respond to the call, ‘Here I Am, Lord—send me,’ her energy and vision helped shape a Congress marked by spiritual depth, cultural memory, and renewed commitment to strengthening the Black Catholic family."
| | Thank you to Nicole Davis, daughter of Leodia Gooch, for sending the Memorial Service program. Click below to download the pdf. | | The Funeral Service will be livestreamed. Check the NBCC website or Facebook page for the link to watch the recorded service. | | |
Black History Month is February 1 through March 1, 2026
Black History Month is celebrated in February to honor the, often overlooked, achievements and contributions of African Americans, recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Originally founded by Carter G. Woodson to combat racism, it serves to highlight Black culture, educate on historical struggles, and promote, ongoing, equality.
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Lent Begins on February 18, 2026
In 2026, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026. It is a 40-day season (excluding Sundays) of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving for Christians, concluding on Holy Thursday, April 2, 2026, before the Mass of the Lord's Supper. Easter Sunday 2026 falls on April 5.
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WEBINAR PRESENTATION:
Thursday, February 5, 2026 \ 7-8:30 PM EST
| | Join Dr. A. Mechelle Haywood for an empowering webinar that explores how intentional boundaries can safeguard emotional well-being and restore a sense of balance in daily life. Drawing from her professional expertise and real-world insights, Dr. Haywood will unpack the roots of burnout, offer practical strategies for setting healthy limits, and guide participants toward creating sustainable habits that nurture peace, productivity, and personal fulfillment. | | |
WEBINAR PRESENTATION:
Tuesday, March 10, 2026 \ 7:30-9:00 PM EST
| In this powerful webinar, Dr. Ansel Augustine leads a profound conversation on the realities of Black generational trauma and the paths toward collective healing within our communities. Joined by a distinguished panel of Black Catholic leaders—Mr. Christian Bentley, Dr. Valerie Lewis-Mosely, and Ms. Nyle Grimes—the session will explore the historical roots of trauma, its impact on faith and daily life, and practical steps for fostering resilience, restoration, and hope. Together, these voices offer wisdom, lived experience, and spiritual insight to help bridge divides, reclaim dignity, and strengthen our shared future by reconnecting and empowering the next generation of Black Catholic leaders. | |
Did you miss it?
if you missed our last webinar presentation, "Budgeting for Beginners: A Step by Step Faith Journey" presented by Joseph Cobb, CPA, you can watch the recording by clicking this button.
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SAVE THE DATE
Witnessing to the Light of Christ—
“the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”
Evangelization Summit 2026
The Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis will convene an Evangelization Summit on October 13–15, 2026, at Marian University in Indianapolis, Indiana.
VISION: Responding to the call of the Holy Spirit, the Evangelization Summit will be an opportunity for attendees to reflect on and re-examine the state of evangelization for the Catholic Church in the U.S.—where the Church in the U.S. is bearing fruit in evangelization, and where she is striving to live her essential mission. Attendees will be prayerfully challenged to:
• Discern how God is calling forth authentic witnesses in parishes, apostolates, and dioceses across the country.
• Reflect on the extent to which the kerygma plays a central role in our evangelization efforts;
• Consider what evangelization methodologies are bearing fruit in a lasting way and identify how those efforts are transforming our communities and serving those who are most in need;
• Evaluate how our evangelization efforts respond to the multicultural and multigenerational reality of the Church in our country;
• Ascertain how our evangelization efforts can better meet the needs of people in the 21st century fostering unity, healing, and hope; and
• Entrust our work to Our Lady of Guadalupe, Star of the New Evangelization, to help us bring Jesus to the least, the last, and the lost through her maternal intercession.
Registration and additional details available by mid-March 2026.
| | Enjoy the recent edition of The Call of Our People: The Newsletter for the Subcommittee on African American Affairs of the USCCB | | |
Where Do We Go From Here: Structures of Sin and the Unfinished Work
By Gloria Purvis
Special Advisor for Integral Human Development
& Dignity, Office of Mission and Ministry for
Providence College
Gloria Purvis is a nationally respected commentator, author, and advocate whose work consistently calls us to confront injustice through the lens of faith, truth, and love. In the spirit of Dr. King, she challenges us not only to remember, but to respond—to examine our hearts, our structures, and our responsibility to one another.
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The Believe Project
A Literacy Initiative Bringing Joy, Representation, and Reading Success to Children
In St. Paul, Missouri, and the greater St. Louis region, The Believe Project is reimagining how children experience reading by placing culturally curated books and literacy resources directly into their hands. Launched in 2019 by St. Louis Black Authors of Children’s Literature, the program is grounded in the belief that every child deserves the confidence, joy, and opportunity that literacy brings—especially before the critical third-grade milestone.
Central to the initiative are Believe Literacy Labs: warm, “home-style” spaces filled with over 1,000 culturally responsive books, cozy seating, technology with e-books and literacy games, and artwork that reflects students’ lives. Designed primarily for pre-kindergarten through third grade, the program also offers interactive experiences such as author visits, performances, and creative arts activities, alongside educator support and progress tracking. Now expanded to multiple schools and community spaces, The Believe Project has reached thousands of children, distributed tens of thousands of books, and contributed to measurable gains in literacy by helping young readers see themselves—and believe—in their own potential.
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The Keys for Living
The Keys for Living are short, helpful books with clear answers from God’s Word and concise, practical guidance on life’s challenges. It’s all life-giving counsel that’s key to living whole and free. Our newly updated Keys for Living books, along with our Classic Blue Book Keys, address over 100 topics – giving you every reason for hope, for every challenge in life.
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The Divine Encounter: Meeting Jesus in Eucharistic Adoration
Even little pockets of time each week set aside to adore the Lord will radically change your life. With busy schedules, carving out time for Adoration can seem daunting, but this latest book from Mark Hart will help you spiritually exhale and give you tools to make the most out of your time with Jesus. Before you know it, Adoration will go from something to help you get through the week to something you yearn for. So, get your copy today and take The Divine Encounter with you when you meet the Lord and accept his invitation for a deeper relationship.
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The New Jerome Biblical Commentary
This contemporary verse by verse commentary examines the scientific, literary, and historical content of the Scriptures — reflecting the exegetical variation found within the community of scholars. Features current theories on dating, historical reconstruction, and archaeological information. Provides contemporary perspectives on hermeneutics, theological depths relating to the biblical word, and themes in the Old Testament. Includes articles on Jesus, the Early Church, Gnosticism, and the subapostolic church.
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The Amazing Adventures and Affirmations of Isaiah and Xavier
by Dee Dee Crawford
The Amazing Adventures and Affirmations of Isaiah and Xavier is a joyful and heartwarming children’s book that celebrates the power of family, the beauty of neurodiversity, and the magic of positive affirmations. Told through the eyes of Isaiah, a young autistic boy with a limited vocabulary but a world full of wonder, the story captures everyday adventures alongside his big brother Xavier, his best friend, motivator, and cheerleader.
| | | Black Catholic Ministry Spotlight | | |
Evelyn Wagner-Wright
Office of Vicar for Catholics of African Descent
She is a member of the Commission of Catholics of African Descent in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and has been a parishioner at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Houston, Texas, since 1982. Evelyn has served as
president of the Parish Pastoral Council and president of the St. Francis of
Assisi Instrument of Peace Choir. She has also served as a lector, extraordinary minister of Holy Communion and a catechist. She remains active in parish ministry serving as co-chairperson of the History Committee for the parish’s 70th Anniversary and continues to volunteer her time and talent in many capacities within the archdiocese.
Evelyn is the immediate past president of the Sisters in the Spirit of Houston, Inc., a lay service organization. In 2012,
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she was nominated by His Eminence Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, and received the national “Servant of Christ” award for 25 years of extraordinary service. Evelyn is a member of the Commission of Catholics of African Descent in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
Evelyn is a native Texan and earned a bachelor’s degree from Prairie View A&M University (Texas); a master’s degree from Pepperdine University (California); completed numerous postgraduate study hours from other universities including Columbia University (New York); University of Southern California, University of LaVerne and University of San Diego (California); and Texas Southern University and the University of St. Thomas (Texas). She graduated from the National Staff Development Council’s Academy in Vancouver, BC, Canada, and completed her Principal Certification at the University of St. Thomas. in addition to membership in many professional organizations, she is a member of Meeting Professionals International and serves as a certified meeting planner.
Evelyn is a loving mother and grandmother, an educator, world traveler, lifelong student, and spiritual woman of faith.
| | Looking for more information? Check out these NBCC Webpages: | | | | |
