Catholic New World: Newspaper for the Archdiocese of Chicago

35th annual African-American Heritage Month Mass

The 35th Annual African-American Heritage Month Mass, a celebration by students, faculty and staff of the archdiocese's Catholic schools, was held at Holy Name Cathedral on Feb. 7. This year's theme was "G7", which means "God to the seventh power." Father Tony Ricard, a priest of the Diocese of New Orleans, preached on the seven principles ("Nguzo Saba"), tenets of virtuous living emphasized during annual Kwanzaa celebrations that are practiced all year long. The celebration highlighted African culture in music, song and dance, and featured a special choir made up of students from participating schools. Hundreds of elementary and high school students from archdiocesan Catholic schools attended.

previousnext1 of 13

Zoie Horton carries incense during the entrance procession at the 35th Annual African-American Heritage Month Mass, a celebration by students, faculty and staff of the archdiocese's Catholic schools at Holy Name Cathedral on Feb. 7. This year's theme was "G7", which means "God to the seventh power." Father Tony Ricard, a priest of the Diocese of New Orleans, preached on the seven principles ("Nguzo Saba"), tenets of virtuous living emphasized during annual Kwanzaa celebrations that are practiced all year long. The celebration highlighted African culture in music, song and dance, and featured a special choir made up of students from participating schools. Hundreds of elementary and high school students from archdiocesan Catholic schools attended.

Photo: Karen Callaway / Catholic New World