National Black Catholic Congress X:
Christ is With Us-Celebrating
the Gifts of the Sacraments,
July 12-15, 2007
In Buffalo, NY
A Personal Commentary
by Burma Hill, Archdiocese of Washington
August, 2007
I had a wonderful time, enjoyed the
camaraderie, and basked in seeing all my sisters and brothers in spirited
worship. I was especially struck with awe in seeing the Black Bishops process in
and the vested deacons in a group photo. All of this warmed my heart and I
silently thanked God for the long road from which we have come as a faith
community. (remembering the days of having to receive Communion after our
Caucasian sisters and brothers) I cheered through some of the plenary addresses,
especially the Archbishop of Nigeria and Deacon Alex Jones. I was really upbeat
after the workshop in which Noah Lett broke open the word on The Wedding At
Cana. However, I was sadden and a bit pique in the evening when the same
presenter, who was supposed to do a Bible study session on The Cleansing of the
Temple, went off( and I mean OFF) about the opening Mass the evening before.
Mr. Lett said the liturgy was a terrible example of Catholicism, too noisy, no
reverence for Jesus. In fact, he said, “I had to say my rosary to drown out
all the noise." Needless to say, these comments generated a heated discussion,
so heated that my friend and I decided to leave along with some other
participants. I felt the liturgy was a wonderful example of truly Black, truly
Catholic worship. My friends who attended other workshops gave glowing comments.
The sisters who presented the workshop on Black Spirituality did a great job!
Now, about Congress theme focusing on the sacraments... I really did not feel
that connection. The workshops were good, excellent hospitality, but I kept
wondering when was the business of the Congress (acting or discussing Leadership
commissions national Agenda) going to take place...and I am still wondering....
I keep asking myself, “What do I have to present to my parish?"