Office of Black Catholic Ministry
Regarding her first six months in the role of Director of the Office of Black Catholics for the Archdiocese of Denver, Kateri Joda Williams acknowledges that she has been “very busy and blessed beyond measure.” In August 2019, Mrs. Williams assumed the role from Mary Leisring, who now serves as the President/Director of the Julia Greeley Guild at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Mrs. Leisring guided the Office of Black Catholic Ministry for 17 years, and Mrs. Williams is grateful for the legacy she established and hopes to build upon her foundation.
Reaching out across the Archdiocese, Williams has sought to connect with African Americans at predominately black parishes as well as parishes that are not ethnically diverse. Through the internet and social media, she has called out to Black Catholics who are not currently engaged with a parish to assess their pastoral needs.
With a desire to celebrate and share the accomplishments of African American Catholics with the greater community, Williams created a Black Catholic History Exhibit that was displayed at the historic Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library during the month of November, Black Catholic History Month. The exhibit was well-received and was extended till the end of the year. She is equally proud of the 8th Annual Peace and Justice Mass that was held on the anniversary of the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Mass was celebrated by the Most Reverend Jorge Rodriguez, Auxiliary Bishop of Denver, who gave a powerful homily about racism and social justice. The Cure’ d’Ars Catholic Church was filled with individuals of all ages and ethnicities.
Coming to the Archdiocese with a background in high school and college advising, Williams is enthusiastic about the opportunity for youth engagement activities. Such opportunities arose during this February’s Black History Month when she was invited to present about Black Catholics at several elementary and high schools in the Denver Metro Area. A product of catholic elementary schools in Brooklyn, NY, Williams has been excited to share her experiences as a Black Catholic with young audiences.
With a great devotion to and thanksgiving for the grace of our Lord’s Divine Mercy, Williams credits her parents and husband for her strong faith foundation. “As a servant leader, it is a blessing to work in this capacity”, and she asks for “continued prayers for this ministry.”
