Gulf Pine Catholic

2 Gulf Pine Catholic • July 10, 2020 The enduring call to love is the heart of the matter and the antidote to this toxin. Love is an extraordinary force which leads people to opt for courageous and generous engagement in the field of justice and peace. For many in Mississippi who strive to live by the Word of God, we cannot ignore the prophets. You have been told, “O mortal, what is good, and what the Lord requires of you: Only to do justice, to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8), and from the prophet Amos, “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” (Amos 5:2) Sister Thea’s life is a living legacy and testimony to the sacrifice and commitment of many in the Catholic Church for generations across Mississippi in the quest to overcome racism. Sister Thea was born in Yazoo City December 29, 1937, and grew up in Canton. Her mother was a teacher and her father was the only African American physician in Canton. Her parents sent her to Holy Child Jesus School. Thea was reared as a Protestant, until at age nine when she asked her par- ents if she could become Catholic. “I was drawn to examine and accept the Catholic faith because of the day-to-day witness of Catholic Christians who first loved me, then shared with me their story, their values, their beliefs; who first loved me, then invited me to share with them in community, prayer and mission. As a child I did not recognize evangelization at work in my life. I did recognize love, service, community, prayer and faith.” (The non-Catho- lic in the Catholic School) Gifted with a brilliant mind, beautiful voice and a dynamic personality, Sister Thea shared the message of God’s love through a teach- ing career. After 16 years of teaching at the elementary, secondary school and uni- versity level, the bishop of Jackson invited her to become the consultant for intercultural awareness. In her role as consultant Sister Thea gave presentations across the country; lively gath- erings that combined singing, gospel teaching, prayer and storytelling. Her programs were directed to break down racial and cultural barriers. She encouraged peo- ple to communicate with one another so that they could understand other cultures and races. In 1984, Sister Thea was diagnosed with breast cancer. She prayed ‘to live until I die.’ Her prayer was answered, and Sister Thea continued her gatherings seated on a wheelchair. In 1989, the U. S. Bishops invited her to be a key speaker at their conference on Black Catholics. At the end of the meeting, Sister Thea’s invitation, the bishops stood and sang “We Shall Overcome” with gusto. Sister Thea lived a full life. She fought evil, especially preju- dice, suspicion, hatred, and things that drive people apart. She fought for God and God’s people until her death in 1990. (Cause for Canonization) As bishops in our time in Mississippi, we recommit ourselves to continue to liberate the Church from the evil of racism that severely compromises our mission to make disciples of all nations in the name of Jesus Christ. With the ordained priests and deacons, religious and laity in our diocese we pledge ourselves to strengthen our Catholic tradition to educate, to serve, and to empower all who are on the margins in our com- munities, especially those who are oppressed by the yoke of racism. We are not powerless and the witness of Sister Thea’s life is an icon of hope that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28) Catholic Bishiop of MS From page 1 Sister Thea Practical suggestions and goals for the Catholic Dioceses of Mississippi This list is not comprehensive, but meant to provide a practical starting place for clergy and the faithful on engaging effectively in combating racism, that begins in the human heart. As a parish: • Read or re-read “Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love -- A Pastoral Letter Against Racism” using the accompanying study guide. Visit usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/racism/index.cfm • Priests and deacons to preach against racism and our personal responsibility to eradicate it and encourage dialog in the parish and community • At Mass and prayer services, include prayer to end racism and the injustice it causes • Engage parish pastoral council and parish finance council members in the discussion on racism • Hold listening seminars for parishioners and community members to reflect on life experiences -- encourage reflection on upbringing and how it has influenced perceptions of ‘the other person’ • Provide and attend intergenerational and interracial discussion or seminar on racism • Provide opportunity for chaplains and police departments to join seminars and discussions on racism As individuals: • Acquaint yourself with Catholic social teaching and the pastoral letter against racism “Open Wide Our Hearts” • Educate yourself on the history and causes of racism in our country • Exercise your right to vote • Speak out whenever you see injustice, racism or discrimination • Do not take part in racial or discriminatory humor • Support efforts to help strengthen family life • Share your time and treasure by involving yourself in diocesan and parish outreach to those in need • Talk to your children about the pain and injustice caused by racism • As a family, pray for justice, peace, and love of neighbor