Archbishop's web site Denver Catholic Register Parishes Catholic Pastoral Center
November 28, 2001
Black Catholics prepare for upcoming Congress IX
National congress to be held in Chicago August 2002
In continued preparation for the National Black Catholics Congress IX to be held in Chicago August 2002, representatives from Regions 7 through 13 met in San Antonio, Texas, the weekend of Oct. 19. Six attendees represented the Archdiocese of Denver, which is part of Region 13.
NBCC Executive Director Hilbert Stanley chaired the gathering. The discussions included presentations by several outreach groups the NBCC is partnering with: Catholic Relief Services, Faith in Action, and Faith Into Action. The groups are but a few of several faith-based organizations that provide evangelization and outreach to many communities and support the goal of the NBCC "to go and proclaim the Gospel."
The attendees were given several assignments to work on in their dioceses. One is to ensure that each diocese participates in the National Parish Profile. Stanley said he wants to update information on how many black Catholics are in the United States and where they are located. Sandra Moore-Mann, Archdiocese of Denver director of black Catholic ministries, is currently conducting a census with compilation expected by the end of November.
The second assignment is to hold a Day of Reflection to inform members of the community about the goals and objectives of Congress IX and to stimulate interest in attending. Each diocese can send up to 20 attendees. The Denver Council for Black Catholics will be preparing a Day of Reflection in January 2002. During this time, all will receive information about the Congress, its principles, and the criteria to be considered as attendees.
Theme for Congress IX is "Black Catholic Leadership in the 21st Century: Solidarity in Action." The congress will focus on 8 principles: spirituality, parish life, youth and young adults, racism, Africa, Catholic education, HIV/AIDS, and social justice. These principles will frame the issues and give a rationale for interest and involvement.
Attendees left the regional meeting with their spirits high. Many said they recognized the fact that there is much work to be done in preparation for one of the largest gatherings of black Catholic lay leadership and religious.
Look for more information on the congress in the next few months. If you would like to participate in the survey Sandra Moore-Mann is taking or would like more information on the congress, call Deborah Price at 303-322-8981.
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