Fostering Faith and Identity: Engaging Black Youth through the Stories of Saints

As the Church seeks to adapt and resonate with its diverse congregations, the Archdiocesan Office for Black Catholics is embracing an innovative approach to connect with youth and young adults in Philadelphia. On November 20, 2025, the office is hosting an online movie night featuring the compelling film A Place at the Table: African Americans on the Path to Sainthood. This film presents the inspiring stories of Black Catholic figures potentially on the path to sainthood, serving as a crucial tool for fostering identity, engagement, and community among young Black Catholics.

An Invitation to Connect

Director Stacy Williams underscores the importance of this initiative as a means to address the pressing questions young Black Catholics often have about their role within the Church. The film provides a space for dialogue and reflection, aiming to help participants find their place and understand their significance in modern Catholicism. “It’s about young African Americans and their places in the Church, how some have embraced that, and the feelings of welcome or exclusion they may experience,” she explains.

The Film: Bridging Past and Present

A Place at the Table not only highlights the stories of six notable Black Catholics—each up for sainthood—but also weaves in experiences from five Black clergy members, creating a rich tapestry of personal narratives and shared struggles. Key figures featured include:

  • Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA: The only African American member of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration.
  • Venerable Sister Henriette Delille, SSF: Founder of the Sisters of the Holy Family, dedicated to serving the underprivileged.
  • Servant of God Sister Julia Greeley, OFS: Known as the “Angel of Denver” for her tireless work among the marginalized.
  • Servant of God Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange, OSP: Founder of the Oblate Sisters of Providence, advocating for education and support.
  • Venerable Father Augustus Tolton: The first recognized Black priest in the United States.
  • Venerable Pierre Toussaint: A former slave who dedicated his life to educating orphans in New York.

These individuals faced immense challenges, primarily racial discrimination, yet they pushed forward with determination and faith. Williams notes, “They made impacts despite all the kinds of things they were dealing with.” Their resilience serves as a guiding beacon for young Black Catholics today.

Lessons from the Lives of Saints

The examples of these saints, especially Venerable Tolton, are not merely historical anecdotes; they carry important lessons on perseverance and leadership. Williams highlights Tolton’s journey, detailing how he overcame the societal barriers of his time to pursue his calling. “He left the United States for Rome to study for the priesthood when no one would accept him,” she points out. Such narratives are intended to empower young viewers to see that there are often alternative routes to achieving their aspirations.

Encouraging Future Leaders

Williams emphasizes the importance of nurturing the next generation of Black Catholics. The evening’s discussions are designed to delve deeper into how the stories of these saints can inspire youth to envision their own paths within the Church. Questions posed during the event include: “How do you see yourself in the Church? What do you want to accomplish in ten years as a Black Catholic?” These questions aim to encourage reflection and empower participants to express their visions of faith and community.

Action Through Dialogues

Beyond the movie itself, Williams aims for this event to be a catalyst for ongoing conversations. The feedback gathered from participants will inform the office’s future initiatives, ultimately helping to shape a more inclusive and supportive environment for young Black Catholics in the Archdiocese. “We want to create a plan that makes an impact in the Black Catholic community, which in turn can influence the larger community,” she states.

The Power of Community Engagement

This online movie night represents more than just a screening; it is a thoughtful engagement with the community designed to reconnect young people with their faith. Williams is clear about the urgency of this mission, emphasizing that the effort is not merely optional but essential for the thriving of Black Catholic engagement. “We need real conversations if we’re serious about moving the Black Catholic community forward,” she declares.

As the Archdiocese of Philadelphia continues to navigate the complexities of modern religious life, initiatives like this are eye-opening reminders of the power of storytelling, community, and resilience, encouraging the youth to carve their own identity within the Church and inspire unique expressions of faith for generations to come.