Unification of Black Catholics

Photo by James A. McBride

Deacon Vincent Okoro speaks at a workshop entitled “Unification of Black Catholics in the Camden Diocese (“Reconciliation and Healing”), held on Saturday morning, July 18, at St. Andrew the Apostle, Gibbsboro. An estimated 30 individuals of African, African-American or Haitian heritage attended the event. The event’s purpose statement noted that although participants “come from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds…we share one faith, one God and a common ancestry.” Presenters and small-group discussions focused on helping those in attendance to realize their common bonds, acknowledge their God-given talents, and use these talents in a spirit of unity and evangelization among each other, the Camden Diocese, and the universal church. Carolyn Jenkins, director of Black Catholic Ministry, said that the day was to “realize who we are, and whose we are.”