Catholic Diocese of Raleigh
During the Lenten season, the Diocesan ministries of African Ancestry and Evangelization network (AAMEN) and Native American Catholics (NAC) were delighted to host Brother Mickey McGrath, OFS to lead a unique art retreat on the lives and legacy of African and Native saints, Saint Josephine Bakhita and St. Kateri Tekakwitha, whom we call “sister saints.” Brother Mickey has led retreats around the nation, with a particular emphasis on care for creation, charismatic renewal, and diverse voices in the Catholic Church. Through the lens of his vibrant paintings, our communities learned about the powerful witness of Saint Josephine and St. Kateri alongside the testimonies of others such as Sister Thea Bowman and Lakota catechist, Nicholas Black Elk.
Featuring the heritage of African, African American, and Native American Catholics was a priority for this retreat, as well as building connection between our AAMEN and NAC communities through fellowship and creativity. We also participated in making art of our own, each person reflecting their interpretation of the sacred symbol of the turtle, often depicted in Native traditions as a sign of longevity, protection, wisdom, and the earth itself. As a result of this retreat, we saw inspiration and encouragement among participants, greater awareness of our mutual belonging in the Church, and the enduring witness of Black and Native peoples.
We are grateful to everyone who participated!
