Black American Candidates for Sainthood: The Saintly Six

The push for canonization of six Black American candidates for sainthood is gaining momentum, as advocates highlight their courageous work in the face of racism and injustice. Known as the “Saintly Six,” these trailblazers of the Black Catholic community are being celebrated for their dedication to educating and caring for marginalized communities.

Despite facing resistance from fellow Catholics, these candidates, including Venerable Pierre Toussaint and Servant of God Mother Mary Lange, have left a lasting legacy of love and service. Supporters are ramping up efforts to raise their profiles and urge Catholic leaders to expedite their canonization.

At a recent event at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Atlanta, parishioners gathered to pray and learn more about the lives of these inspiring individuals. The event featured discussions on returning to the ancient custom of popular affirmation for sainthood and a letter-writing campaign to the Vatican to challenge the church to recognize the faith of its Black members.

Historian Shannen Dee Williams highlighted the impact of Mother Mary Lange, who founded a religious community in Baltimore that accepted women born into slavery. Williams emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of Black Catholic religious communities in shaping American Catholic history.

The legacy of these six believers serves as an inspiring example for the entire Catholic community, reminding them to trust their better instincts and live up to the Gospel call. As efforts to promote their causes continue, advocates are hopeful that their stories of faith and perseverance will inspire others to speak courageously about their examples of Christian witness.