St. Patrick's Catholic Church Honors Black Catholic Witness to Our Faith...

 Saturday St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lufkin celebrated the contribution of Black Catholics to the faith with a Mass at Pitser Garrison Civic Center led by the Bishop of Tyler, Greg Kelly and with music by the Liturgical Choir of St. Francis of Assisi from Houston, Tx. Many volunteers from our Lufkin Parish worked together to provide a beautiful alter to celebrate the Eucharist, a great meal with greens to die for and hospitality for all who attended. These are the photos I made. 

The gospel Readings selected for this Mass were from Luke 6:27-38. I found them very though inspiring.

27 “But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. 29 If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. 30 Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. 31 Do to others as you would have them do to you.

32 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33 If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34 If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. 35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return.[e] Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

I especially like our Pastor Father Denzil's thoughts on the day as published on the local TV station web site:

Father Vithanage emphasized the unity that faith brings, particularly in today’s climate.

“Especially in the midst of racism and division, we are one. Especially when it comes to our faith,” he said.

The event was spearheaded by Father Denzil and Dr. Guessippina Bonner. Father Denzil said the event will be the first of many commemorations for Black history.

I am proud of my church and my friends for the efforts to preserve this history and the story of the people who have lived it. . 

Of course I bought their CD. 

History tells us the first Black Catholics were in Texas in the 1500s and that there have been several Black Popes. 

A great day for all people and it was right here in Lufkin.