Clarence B. Jones, MLK speechwriter who helped pen 'I Have a Dream', dead at 95
The Catholic-raised attorney, aide, and academic received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2024 for his work in the Civil Rights Movement.
Education
Canon A. Gerard Jordan Scholarship applications now open
Benefiting single mothers pursuing an education, the scholarship honors a Black Norbertine priest known for promoting Venerable Augustus Tolton.
From the Congo to Kentucky: Catholic-led after-school program shows hope is alive in Lexington
Philip Manga helps lead an outreach serving mostly African immigrant children with an ethos informed by faith and a harrowing journey to America.
Fr David Andrew Fisher, African-American Maronite academic, dead at 67
The longtime academic, writer, and seminary professor was educated in Rome and transferred to the historic Eastern Catholic church in the 1990s.
Fr William Cross, second Black Catholic priest in Cincinnati, dead at 79
A longtime educator in Catholic schools, he was the first Black pastor in the archdiocese, having been ordained in 1974 after his conversion.
Holy Family Cristo Rey High School in Birmingham to host annual gala
The annual event raises money to support the low-tuition institution, which serves mostly Black and brown students in north central Alabama.
Campus of Martin University, cofounded by Black Catholic priest in Indianapolis, up for sale
The predominantly Black school, linked to the late Boniface Hardin, OSB, closed in December after a decade of financial turmoil and low enrollment.
Dr. Shawna Cooper Whitehead named president of Regis University
The Catholic Illinois native has worked in university administration since 2004, and at Catholic universities for most her career since 2008.
Nashville Black Catholic advocated for education, sparked lasting mission
Jim O'Hara highlights the man behind the plea that led St. Katharine Drexel to found numerous Black Catholic institutions in Middle Tennessee.
What is Black theology, and why does it matter?
Tamika Royes on the need for continued understanding of Black Christian perspectives, especially in the Catholic Church of the Western diaspora.
Norman C. Francis, first lay president at Xavier University of Louisiana, dead at 94
The former civil rights lawyer led the school for nearly 50 years, from the Civil Rights Movement through Hurricane Katrina and beyond.
Where to find a Catholic Black History Month event (2026 edition)
A listing of Black History Month events from parishes, schools, and national organizations around the country.
Cristo Rey Charleston High School breaks ground in South Carolina
After more than six years, the project hopes to open in fall 2027 with a class of 100 students in the diverse community of North Charleston.
Where to find a Catholic MLK Day event (2026 edition)
A national listing of Church-relevant events honoring the life and legacy of the African-American martyr slain for the cause of civil rights.
Podcast: Dr. John F. Leeke and Ananda Leeke on the divine work of DEI
A father-daughter duo explores the intersection of faith and DEI, the role of wellness in promoting inclusion, and the historical context of DEI.
University of Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel under investigation following football fallout
The Black Catholic administrator has faced criticism for an alleged lack of institutional control, spotlighted by a new scandal this month.