In the bustling streets of 18th-century New York City, amidst the nascent roar of what would become a metropolis, the story of Pierre Toussaint emerges—a story not just of personal triumph over adversity but a testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity to seek out compassion and justice in the face of unimaginable trials.

Born into the brutal confines of slavery in 1766 in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, now Haiti, Pierre could have been just another forgotten soul swallowed by the harsh annals of history. Yet, his life took a turn that would liberate him from the chains of bondage and enshrine his legacy as one of New York City's most benevolent philanthropists.

Pierre's journey to prominence began when his owners, the Bérard family, brought him to New York. He displayed an extraordinary aptitude for learning and a disposition towards kindness and was apprenticed under a renowned hairdresser. Pierre's nimble fingers and warm demeanor quickly made him a favorite in the elite circles of New York society, where his salon became a hub of not just beauty but of whispered secrets and influential connections.

But Pierre's story is not merely one of personal success. Even as he navigated his path to freedom—secured after the death of his mistress, who was moved by his loyalty and character and granted him his liberty in her will—his heart remained with those still shackled by the inhuman institution of slavery and the impoverished of New York City.

With his accumulated wealth, Pierre Toussaint did not turn a blind eye to the suffering around him. Instead, he became a beacon of hope, using his resources and influence to tirelessly advocate for the less fortunate. He supported orphanages, opened his home as a refuge for the needy, and funded the education of countless children. His most enduring contribution was his pivotal role in raising funds to construct Old Saint Patrick's Cathedral, ensuring a place of worship and community for generations.

What makes Pierre Toussaint's story truly captivating is not just his rise from slavery to prominence but his unwavering commitment to serving others. In a world where he had every right to be bitter and self-serving, Pierre chose the path of empathy and generosity, embodying the very best of the human spirit.

Toussaint's legacy lives on, not just in the institutions he helped build or the lives he touched, but as a symbol of what it means to transcend one's circumstances and dedicate oneself to the service of humanity. In 1996, his virtues were formally recognized by the Catholic Church, and he was declared "Venerable," the second step on the path to sainthood, a rare honor highlighting the depth of his impact.

The story of Venerable Pierre Toussaint is a vivid reminder that within each of us lies the capacity to change not just our destiny but to uplift those around us, crafting a legacy of kindness and compassion that echoes through the ages. Pierre Toussaint is one of six African American candidates for sainthood whom we celebrate in our parish during Black History Month.

In the early 19th century, amidst the burgeoning cityscape of Baltimore, Maryland, a story of extraordinary courage and divine purpose unfolded—a narrative that would forever alter the landscape of religious and educational opportunities for African Americans. This is the story of Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange, a woman whose legacy is not merely etched in history but woven into the fabric of progress, faith, and the fight for equality.

Born into a prosperous family of African descent in the 1780s in Santiago de Cuba, Lange was a woman of education and means, traits uncommon for people of color in that era, especially women. However, the winds of change and the call of destiny beckoned her northward. Fleeing racial oppression in Cuba, she arrived in the United States, eventually settling in Baltimore. There, Lange encountered a reality that was stark and disheartening yet all too familiar: a community of African American children deprived of education and languishing in the shadows of societal neglect.

But where others saw despair, Lange saw a divine opportunity. Moved by her deep faith and an unwavering commitment to the Gospel's call to serve the least among us, she embarked on a mission. In the face of overwhelming racial and gender biases, Lange dared to dream of a better future for African American children. She used her resources to open a school in her home, providing free education to black children in Baltimore—a radical act of defiance and compassion laying the groundwork for a revolution in African American education.

However, Lange's vision extended beyond the realm of education. She perceived a glaring void in the religious community: there was no place for African American women in religious life in the United States. In an era when segregation and discrimination were entrenched in both society and the church, Lange's next step was as audacious as it was holy. She sought to establish the first African-American Catholic religious order, a sanctuary where black women could devote their lives to God and serve their communities.

In 1829, the Oblate Sisters of Providence were founded with the support of Reverend James Joubert, a Sulpician priest moved by Lange's faith and determination. This pioneering religious order offered a haven for African American women called to a life of religious service and ensured the continuation of Lange's educational mission. The Oblate Sisters ran schools, orphanages, and homes for the aged, becoming a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of faith to move mountains.

Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange's story is a compelling saga of resilience, faith, and unwavering love. At a time when society imposed limitations based on race and gender, Lange transcended these barriers, creating a legacy that endures to this day. Her work laid the foundation for generations of African American women to serve God and their communities, proving that it is possible to change the world with faith, courage, and determination.

Declared Venerable by the Catholic Church, Lange's life and legacy continue to inspire those within the church and all who are committed to the fight for justice, equality, and the power of education. Her story is a vivid reminder that the impossible becomes possible when faith and action go hand in hand, and the light of hope can shine even in the darkest times. Mother Mary Lange is one of six African American candidates for sainthood whom we celebrate in our parish during Black History Month.

In the vibrant, pulsating heart of 19th-century New Orleans, a city marked by its blend of cultures, colors, and creeds, there emerged a woman whose life story would transcend the boundaries of her time and leave an indelible mark on history. This is the story of Henriette DeLille, a woman of African and French descent, who dared to defy the societal norms of her era to heed a higher calling—a calling to serve those relegated to the margins of society.

Born in 1812 into the plaçage system, a common-law practice that saw wealthy white men entering into relationships with free women of color, Henriette was poised for a life of relative comfort and social standing had she chosen to follow the path laid out for her by society and tradition. Yet, Henriette’s spirit yearned for something more, something deeper. Moved by a profound faith and an unwavering conviction that all people deserve love and dignity, she chose a different path.

Henriette's journey was not an easy one. She witnessed firsthand the suffering of the poor and the sick, the plight of orphans, and the scorn directed at people of mixed race. In a society where people were often judged and segregated by the color of their skin, Henriette saw the face of God in every individual, believing passionately that everyone, regardless of their race or status, was entitled to education, healthcare, and spiritual guidance.

In 1836, Henriette undertook a radical step that would solidify her legacy and challenge the fabric of societal norms. Along with a small group of like-minded women, she founded the Sisters of the Holy Family, the first Catholic religious order for women of color. This was a revolutionary act because it provided a spiritual community for women of color and directly addressed the needs of the most vulnerable members of society.

The Sisters of the Holy Family dedicated themselves to serving the New Orleans African American community. They opened schools, provided care for the elderly and infirm, and took in orphans. They did all this amid immense opposition, navigating a society that sought to limit their reach and diminish their efforts. Yet, through faith, perseverance, and sheer force of will, Henriette and her sisters broke through these barriers, creating a legacy of service and compassion that would grow and thrive long after she died in 1862.

Henriette DeLille's life is a testament to the power of faith and the indomitable spirit of one woman determined to make a difference in the world. Declared Venerable by the Catholic Church, her story inspires those who hear it, serving as a beacon of hope and a reminder that true greatness often comes from serving others. Henriette DeLille challenged the norms of her time, and in doing so, she showed us that the greatest wealth is found not in material riches but in the love and service we offer to one another. Our parish honors Henriette DeLille during Lent this year.

In Colorado's sprawling, rugged landscape, where the Rocky Mountains meet the sky, the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought forth a figure of humble origins but a towering legacy. This is the story of Julia Greeley, a former slave turned guardian angel of Denver's poor, whose life of boundless charity and deep faith left an indelible mark on the heart of a city and its people.

Born into the harsh reality of slavery in Missouri sometime between 1833 and 1848, Julia's early years were marred by suffering and loss, including a tragic incident where a slave master, in a fit of rage, caused the loss of her right eye. Yet, these trials did not embitter her; instead, they forged an unshakeable empathy for the downtrodden and a profound love for Christ and His Blessed Mother.

After gaining her freedom following the Civil War, Julia ventured westward, eventually settling in Denver. There, amidst the burgeoning city, she found her calling. Despite her meager earnings as a domestic worker, Julia became a beacon of hope and charity. Her nights were spent pulling a red wagon through the streets of Denver, delivering coal, food, and clothing to needy families. She did so under the cover of darkness, ensuring that her acts of kindness were anonymous, motivated purely by love and compassion, not a desire for recognition.

Julia's charity knew no bounds and discriminated against no one; she helped everyone regardless of race, religion, or background. She became a familiar, albeit mysterious, figure in Denver, earning her the affectionate title of Denver’s “Angel of Charity.” Julia's deep Catholic faith was the wellspring of her boundless love for the needy. She converted to Catholicism in her late 40s. She became an ardent devotee of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, spreading devotion wherever she went and encouraging everyone to embrace God's love and mercy.

Her humility and generosity were such that, upon her death on June 7, 1918, the city discovered the true extent of her charitable works. Julia Greeley had quietly made a profound impact on Denver, touching the lives of countless individuals through her acts of kindness.

Today, Julia Greeley's legacy continues to inspire. The Archdiocese of Denver opened her cause for canonization, and she was declared a Servant of God, the first step towards sainthood. Her remains were moved to the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Denver, a rare honor, solidifying her status as a cherished figure in the community she served so selflessly.

Julia Greeley’s story is a powerful testament to the impact one person can have on the world around them. In a time when divisions run deep, her life reminds us of the transformative power of kindness and the universal call to serve others with a loving heart. Through her example, Julia Greeley shows us that true greatness often comes not from wealth or status but from the simple, profound acts of love we offer to one another. Our parish continues to pray for Julia Greeley’s canonization.

In the tempest of America's struggle with its own soul, amidst the brutal discord of racial divides and the slow, painful march towards equality, emerged a figure of quiet strength and unassailable dignity. This is the story of Augustus Tolton, a man born into the bonds of slavery, who would rise to become the first African American priest in the United States, navigating the tumultuous waters of a society riven by prejudice, yet never losing sight of the power of faith to transcend barriers and unite hearts.

Augustus Tolton's journey began in Missouri in 1854, when he was born into a family whose hopes and dreams were shackled by slavery. Yet his mother, Martha Jane, harbored a vision of freedom not just for her body but for the souls of her children, instilling in them a deep faith in God. In a daring flight to freedom, she led her family across the divide to Illinois, a journey fraught with peril but guided by an unyielding trust in divine providence.

In Illinois, young Augustus was introduced to a life of possibility and the sting of rejection. His desire to learn and serve God led him to the doors of several seminaries, all of which turned him away, not for lack of intellect or piety, but because of the color of his skin. It was a testament to Tolton's remarkable spirit that he did not succumb to despair. Instead, his resolve only strengthened, fueled by a conviction that God had called him to serve.

Providence would guide him across the ocean to Rome, where he was finally accepted to study for the priesthood, with the expectation that he would minister in Africa. However, destiny had a different path in mind. Upon his ordination in 1886, the Church, recognizing the urgent need for his ministry in America, sent him back to Illinois. Father Tolton was met there as a curiosity and a beacon of hope for African American Catholics, who had long been marginalized within the church.

Father Tolton's ministry in Quincy, Illinois, and later in Chicago, was marked by profound challenges and significant achievements. He faced hostility and discrimination from within the church and navigated a society that often seemed determined to deny his humanity. Yet, with every sermon, every Mass, and every act of pastoral care, Father Tolton broke down barriers, united communities, and offered a powerful witness to the Gospel's message of love, dignity, and inclusion.

Despite his burdens, Father Tolton's legacy is not defined by the trials he endured but by the love he shared and the path he forged for those who would follow. His life was a testament to the belief that there should be no divide too great within the church and society to be bridged by faith and understanding.

Declared Venerable by Pope Francis, Augustus Tolton's journey from slavery to sainthood mirrors the larger story of America's ongoing quest for justice and equality. His story is a beacon of light for all who seek to navigate the divides of their own times, reminding us that, with faith, courage, and an unwavering commitment to serving others, even the most profound divisions can be healed and the most formidable barriers overcome.

In the heart of Mississippi, in the small town of Canton, during the era of segregation and deep-seated racial divisions, a remarkable journey began. It was the journey of Bertha Bowman, who would later be known as Sister Thea Bowman. This name would resonate through the halls of education, within the sacred spaces of churches, and across the cultural tapestry of America. Born in 1937 into a world where her skin color defined her opportunities and her place in society, Thea Bowman emerged as a luminous beacon of hope, an advocate for cultural heritage, and a tireless worker for God's kingdom on earth.

The granddaughter of slaves, Thea, was raised in a devoutly Methodist family. Still, her parents allowed her to convert to Catholicism, a rarity in the predominantly Protestant African American community of her time, at age nine. Her faith, deeply ingrained from an early age, would become the bedrock of her life's work. At the tender age of 15, inspired by the example of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, whom she met through her school, Thea made the bold decision to join their religious order in La Crosse, Wisconsin, leaving behind her home, her family, and all that was familiar.

Sister Thea Bowman's journey was one of transformation. She transformed herself from Bertha to Thea and, in doing so, transformed the world around her. Armed with an unwavering faith, a brilliant mind, and a boundless love for her culture, Sister Thea embarked on a mission to bridge the divides of race and culture through education, music, and the power of the spoken word. She pursued advanced studies, earned a Ph.D. in English literature, and used her education to advocate for a more inclusive curriculum that reflected the diverse heritage of the Catholic faith and the rich tapestry of American society.

Sister Thea's literal and metaphorical voice was a force to be reckoned with. She was a gifted speaker and singer, using her talents to communicate her message of unity and love. She traveled extensively, speaking at conferences, schools, and churches, captivating audiences with her blend of gospel hymns, spirituals, and stories, all woven with a message of God's love and the beauty of black culture.

In the latter part of her life, even as she battled cancer, Sister Thea's resolve only strengthened. Sitting in a wheelchair, she appeared before the U.S. bishops, urging them to welcome and celebrate the gifts of African American Catholics. She challenged them and all who heard her message to work towards a church and a society where all God's children could feel at home.

Sister Thea Bowman's legacy is a testament to the power of faith and love to overcome the barriers of race and prejudice. Her life was a song of hope and a dance of joy, inviting everyone to join in celebrating the rich, diverse family of God. Declared a Servant of God, her cause for canonization is a recognition of her holiness and the enduring relevance of her message. This message calls us to recognize and cherish the beauty in our diversity, to find unity in our faith, and to work tirelessly for a world where every person is valued, every culture is celebrated, and every voice is heard. St. Benedict the Moor parish upholds Thea Bowman's legacy by incorporating African American culture and history into the Catholic Church's universal liturgy.