Students Participate in 48th Annual African American Heritage Prayer Service

The prayer service offered students a powerful encounter with the richness of Black Catholic faith, history, and leadership. Through scripture, sacred music, praise dance, and spoken word, the liturgy reflected the beauty and vitality of African American Catholic tradition. The gathering served as both celebration and call—inviting all present to deeper unity, mercy, and service within the Body of Christ.

Rev. Steven Bell, CSP, served as homilist, challenging the congregation to embody Gospel values of justice, welcome, and love. His message underscored the importance of recognizing every person as made in the image and likeness of God and called to contribute to the life of the Church and the broader community.

Twenty Loyola Academy students attended the celebration, accompanied by four members of the Mission, Ministry, and Identity team. Schools processed into the cathedral bearing banners that represented their communities, a visible sign of shared faith and solidarity across the Archdiocese.

Sophomore Haru Kidane reflected on the experience, "The Prayer Service was very welcoming and inspirational. I appreciated the amazing performance of music, spoken word, and praise dance. I can't wait to go back next year."

Participation in the African American Heritage Prayer Service is a longstanding tradition for Loyola Academy. Rooted in our Jesuit mission, the experience invites students to honor the diverse gifts within the Church, deepen their understanding of Catholic social teaching, and grow as women and men for others. Through prayerful celebration and communal witness, our students continue to learn what it means to be one family in Christ—called to welcome, to serve, and to lead with faith and courage.