Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, the first and only African American cardinal and retiring archbishop of Washington, D.C., observed Black History Month by serving as guest homilist for the Archdiocese of Newark, N.J.’s commemorative Mass, celebrated by Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin on Feb. 16 at Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
Addressing the hundreds gathered in Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Gregory said Black History Month is an opportunity to recognize the “pioneers” of Black heritage for their accomplishments, such as triumphing in the face of discrimination., but he stressed it should not just be about re-examining the past. Instead, he said, Black History Month is a chance to look toward the future “with hopeful hearts and open minds.”
“It is a moment to commit to tomorrow and to urge those who will be our future heroes to seize the challenges that will lie ahead for them and for all of us,” Gregory said before reflecting on the legacy of Carter G. Woodson, considered the founder of Black History Month. “I pray (young people) see their own future in the likeness of the man who dared to believe that people of color have an important heritage and a future in which to hope.”
Garlin wanted Gregory to speak at the Mass to inspire young people of color with his success in the church. Now, juniors and seniors of African American, African, and Caribbean descent in archdiocesan high schools can share their thoughts about his visit through the apostolate’s essay contest tied to the liturgy.
Visit www.rcan.org/aaaca to learn more about the contest and the apostolate’s mission of serving the Archdiocese of Newark’s Black Catholic community.