With an eye toward fostering an appreciation for history, reflection, knowledge and broader awareness, members of the Parish of Saint Monica and the diocesan Black Catholic Ministry Commission organized a special celebration for Juneteenth.
Nearly 200 faithful gathered together inside Dante Hall Theatre, Atlantic City, to take part in the observance, which this year paid a special tribute to seven Black Catholics who are on the journey to sainthood – Venerable Father Augustus Tolton, Venerable Pierre Toussaint, Venerable Henriette Delille, Venerable Mother Mary Lange, Servant of God Julia Greeley, Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman and Servant of God Friar Martin Maria de Porres Ward, OFM Conv.
“Each year, even before Juneteenth rolls around, I am thinking of what we could do that would be entertaining, Christ-centered and provide insight and knowledge,” said Blanche Toole, a member of the Parish of Saint Monica and the diocesan commission. “Deciding on seven of the Black individuals on the road to sainthood certainly included it all. It was an eye-opener for many who listened to their stories being told.”
Faithful dressed in costumes to portray each of the seven individuals, putting on a performance that received a standing ovation. With the theme “Echoes of Faith,” the celebration also featured music performed by the Voices of Saint Monica and a lunch.
“It was an amazing event,” said Father Vincent Guest, coordinator of the diocesan Black Catholic Ministry Commission, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Camden and vicar for the City of Camden. “I want to take this program on the road to show other schools and parishes so [that these] stories of faith and perseverance can be more widely known.”
Bernard Reynolds, who portrayed Pierre Toussaint during the celebration, reflected on the meaning of Juneteenth in the faith community.
“Juneteenth allows Black Catholics to become more aware of those who fought for their freedom. It also allows others to get a better understanding of our fight for freedom,” he said. “After playing Pierre Touissant, I realized that all churches have someone like Pierre who is committed to the Church, knows how to deal with diversity and always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.”
Carolyn Taylor was also part of the tribute, portraying Julia Greeley – an experience she describes as “truly an inspiration.”
“[Juneteenth] marks a pivotal moment in American History and continues to hold a deep significance today, particularly as a symbol of delayed freedom and a call to ongoing justice,” Taylor said. “Juneteenth celebrations recognize this fight for human rights and equality. I feel that family, faith services, musical performances, storytelling and cookouts exhibited on Juneteenth showcase African-Americans’ resilience and achievements, as well as the preservation of history and traditions.”
In his opening prayer that kicked off the celebration, Father Guest expressed his hopes for the program: “May this celebration renew our commitment to the Gospel, strengthen our pursuit of peace and justice, and inspire us to build a Church and society where every person is welcomed, valued and free to flourish.”
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