Servant of God Sr. Thea Bowman’s story continues to inspire Catholics because of her joyful faith, prophetic voice and unwavering belief that the Church is strengthened by every culture and people. More than a teacher or speaker, Sr. Thea witnessed to racial justice, evangelization, and hope, helping many Catholics see …

By Teresa Phillips The Saintly Seven: Black Catholics on the Path to Sainthood Last month, we introduced the Saintly Seven—the seven current African American candidates for canonization. In April 2026, the Archdiocesan Anti-Racism Task Force hosted the first of eight monthly events that will highlight one of those seven candidates. …

By Esperanza Gallon As we continue learning about the Saintly Seven, we are enlightened and encouraged by their examples. Venerable Augustus Tolton’s extraordinary life gives hope to the faithful amid serious societal trials. Fr. Tolton’s life is a “rags-to-riches” story, albeit not in the classic way. While born into slavery …

by Mary Anne Bressler The Saintly Seven Were you aware that there are seven African American candidates for canonization? The lives of these holy men and women span nearly the entire existence of the United States as an independent nation—from Pierre Toussaint, born in 1766, through Thea Bowman, who died …