Saint Augustine's Church Gospel Choir to Deliver Performance at All Saints' Day Holy Mass
November is recognized as Black Catholic History Month, and this year, the celebrations are more significant than ever. The All Saints Day Mass on November 1 at 12:05pm, to be held at St. Joseph Memorial Chapel, will be a special occasion, incorporating the Gospel Choir from St. Augustine's Church and commemorating the "Saintly Six" - six Black Catholics who are on the road to sainthood.
St. Augustine's Church, the "Mother Church of Black Catholics in the Nation's Capital," will lend its choir to the Mass, a group that has previously performed in the White House and for Pope Francis during his first trip to the United States. The Chaplains' Office has planned to incorporate images of the "Saintly Six" and prayers for their canonization into the Mass.
The "Saintly Six" are yet to be identified, but in Catholic tradition, saints are recognized for their exceptional devotion to God and their virtuous lives, making them role models for believers. For example, St. Ignatius of Antioch, known for his letters emphasizing the importance of the three-fold clerical office and Christian unity, and St. Louis Martin, a devoted husband and father who prioritized family and faith, are celebrated for their significant contributions and virtues.
The Gospel Choir from St. Augustine's Church will provide music for the All Saints Day Mass, adding a spiritual and uplifting tone to the celebration. Students from the Nativity School of Worcester and the Nativity of Boston will also be in attendance, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere.
St. Joseph Memorial Chapel, which celebrated its 100th anniversary on April 21st, will celebrate All Saints Day in a special way. The McFarland Center, part of the "Catholics & Cultures" initiative, hosted a virtual conversation about Deaf Catholics, further emphasizing the Chapel's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
In other news, Stacey Kaliabakos '23, the Chief Opinions Editor, has been accepted into Holy Cross. Kaliabakos, who intentionally sought a school for spiritual growth, applied to small liberal arts colleges. William McHale '26, the Features Editor, was not to be left behind, as he continues to make his mark in the journalism world.
As we approach Black Catholic History Month and All Saints Day, it's clear that the Washington, DC community is coming together to celebrate, learn, and grow in faith. These events serve as a reminder of the rich history and vibrant culture within the Black Catholic community, and the ongoing journey towards sainthood for many inspiring individuals.
- The Gospel Choir from St. Augustine's Church, known for its exceptional performances in significant events like the White House and for Pope Francis, will lend its talent to the All Saints Day Mass, adding a spiritual and uplifting tone to the celebration.
- Students from the Nativity School of Worcester and the Nativity of Boston, eager contributors to vibrant atmospheres, will be in attendance at the All Saints Day Mass.
- St. Joseph Memorial Chapel, a champion of inclusivity and diversity, will commemorate All Saints Day in a unique way, following its 100th anniversary celebration and a virtual conversation about Deaf Catholics hosted by the McFarland Center.
- The Black Catholic community in Washington, DC is united in their efforts to celebrate, learn, and grow in faith during Black Catholic History Month and All Saints Day, showcasing the rich history and vibrant culture within this community and highlighting the ongoing journey towards sainthood for many inspiring individuals.
