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History of Black Catholic Ministries of Columbus
The Diocese of Columbus has actively
participated in the National Black Catholic Congress (NBCC) since it
reconvened in 1987. Over 50 people represented the Columbus Diocese at
Congress IX held in Chicago in 2002. Congress IX identified eight major
areas of concern that challenge and call Black Catholics to action. This
call to action outlines a five - year plan, the Pastoral Plan of Action,
to improve the quality of life for people of African decent.
Upon returning from Congress IX – Diocese of
Columbus Implementation Committee organized subcommittees to begin work,
here at the local level, on the Pastoral Plan of Action. Additional
committees were also established to work on initiatives of local
interest to the Columbus Black Catholic Community. Local concerns called
for the following:
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Improvement of Catholic education in the inner city for African American
children
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Reinstatement of the Radio Program, “This Far By Faith”
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Fundraising
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Establishment of an office for Black Catholics
The NBCC – Diocese of Columbus
Implementation Committee changed its name to Black Catholic Ministries
of Columbus in February 2004. Some accomplishments of Black Catholic
Ministries of Columbus since its inception include:
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Publication of a quarterly Newsletter, The Moropa News
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Social Justice “Everyone Counts” Workshops
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Established a relationship with the village of Uwanki-Amokwe from the
Enugu State of Nigeria
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Outreach initiatives to our brothers and sisters in suburban parishes
within the Diocese
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Until recently, monthly broadcast of the radio Gospel Mass
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Fundraising by the Ways and Means Committee
Ø St.
Cyprian Parish reunion, in honor of the original parish founded in 1912
for the African American
Catholic community
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Co-sponsored with the Diocese of Columbus Department of Social Concern
“Meet the Candidates” nights
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Co-sponsored with the Dominican Sisters of St. Mary of the Springs
annual Martin de Porres Feast Day
Celebration
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Conducted a series of 6 HIV/AIDS workshops
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