Broadening the cultural base of the lay leadership within the diocese is one of the challenges set forth in “Led By the Spirit,” the new diocesan pastoral plan.
Taking that mandate to heart, the diocesan Office of the Black Apostolate and the Office of Evangelization and Parish Development have created a four-part presentation on Black Catholics.
The presentation, “We’ve Come This Far by Faith: Black Catholic History in America” will run Oct. 3, 17 and 24 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Nov. 10 at a time to be determined. All the sessions will be held in St. Ann Faith Development Center, Lawrenceville.
The presentation was developed by Ellie Ancrum, director of the diocesan Office of the Black Apostolate, and JoLynn Krempecki, director of the diocesan Office of Evangelization and Parish Development and administrator of the diocesan Institute for Lay Ecclesial Ministry.
They see it as the first step in what is hoped will become an ongoing initiative to reach out to the numerous cultural groups of the diocese.
Ancrum, a long time educator and author, will be the presenter.
Among topics she will address are: black presence in the Bible; historical perspectives; global statistics; experiences, sharing and fellowship in the Black Catholic faith community and opportunities for evangelization.
“Our hope is that many people around the diocese see this as a growth opportunity and an adventure.” said Ancrum. “Clergy, religious, lay leaders and members of the faith community at large, everyone is more than welcome to attend.”
Those who attend can expect a unique experience as they explore a community has made great contributions to the fabric of life even while it faced the ravages of slavery and later, discrimination from not only society at large but the Church, she said.
Krempecki said she’s excited about the fact that “for many of the people who come, this will be new information. Getting us together to share it and getting it out to the community is a great way of saying, ‘this is us!’” The cost of the program is $10 per session or $40 for the entire course (non-refundable). Beverages and desserts are included, lunch is bring your own. Registration is required by Sept. 25. For more information contact Kathleen Golazeski at 609-406-7400, ext. 5605 or [email protected]
