St. Martin de Porres
The beat of drums called St. Martin de Porres’ parishioners and guests to liturgy on February 3, 2019 in celebration of Black History Month. Guest homilist, Deacon Royce Winters of the Diocese of Cincinnati, reflected on the African American family in consort with the liturgical readings of the day. His message was personal in his sharing of the struggles in his own extended family, which are often experienced in African American families. African Americans are a resilient people but mass incarceration, addiction, high murder rates, police brutality … are realities in our lives. He brought a message of hope, in that our faith, prayer and support for each other sustains us as a people.
Following the faith filled Mass the congregation enjoyed a soul food hospitality supported, in part, by the Black and Indian Grant. During hospitality, Deacon Royce continued to inspire in conversing with those who stopped by to tell him how much they enjoyed his homily.
Accompanying photographs reflect Deacon Royce Winters with Fr. Raphael Karekatt, Chaplain of St. Martin de Porres and Congregation during preparation for Eucharist and in quiet meditation following communion.
