Cardinal Gregory Honors Legacy of Black Catholics at U.S. Seminary in Rome

Cardinal Wilton Gregory, the first African American cardinal, was recently honored at a U.S. seminary in Rome, where he recalled the legacy of Black Catholics in America. During his remarks, Gregory highlighted the story of Venerable Augustus Tolton, the first African American priest who studied in Rome in the 19th century when U.S. seminaries did not accept African Americans.

Gregory emphasized that Tolton came to Rome because it was willing to take him as a seminarian when no other seminary in the U.S. would. He noted that the honor he received from Pope Francis rested on the faith and perseverance of African American Catholics, even in times when they were not respected or understood.

Why this matters: Cardinal Gregory's recognition of the legacy of Black Catholics in America sheds light on the historical challenges faced by African Americans in the Church. His story serves as an inspiration for greater inclusion and diversity within the Catholic faith.

During his visit, the cardinal also discussed the divisive political climate in the U.S. and the need for unity. He addressed his previous comments on President Joe Biden being a 'cafeteria Catholic' and emphasized the importance of the ongoing Eucharistic revival in the U.S. Gregory stressed the need for Catholics to live according to the values expressed in the Gospels.

In his concluding remarks, Cardinal Gregory reiterated the significance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Black Catholics throughout history. "The honor I received from Pope Francis rested on the faith and perseverance of African American Catholics, even in times when they were not respected or understood," he said, underscoring the importance of their legacy in the Church.

Key Takeaways

• Cardinal Wilton Gregory, first African American cardinal, honored in Rome
• Highlighted story of Venerable Augustus Tolton, first African American priest
• Gregory's recognition sheds light on historical challenges faced by Black Catholics
• Discussed divisive political climate, need for unity, and Eucharistic revival
• Emphasized significance of recognizing contributions of Black Catholics in history