Welcome to the National Black Sisters Conference (NBSC), where Black women religious lead with faith, courage, and a commitment to justice. Our work uplifts communities, preserves sacred histories, and equips sisters to serve with excellence.

Our Mission in Action:

Create Community Leadership Curricula and Facilitate Events for Black Women-Religious
- Leadership development, mentorship, and supportive networks that empower sisters to lead boldly in religious life and beyond.
Capture the History and Stories of Black Nuns
- Documentation, storytelling, and archiving that honor journeys of commitment and faith for future generations.
Facilitate Annual Assembly and Quarterly Events
- Inclusive gatherings that inspire worship, dialogue, strategic planning, and sisterhood.
Provide Technological Access and Resources
- Bridging the digital divide with devices, connectivity, training, and ongoing tech support.
Serve the Greater Community
- Programs that promote spiritual leadership, social justice, and compassionate service across parishes, families, and neighborhoods.

Why It Matters Black women religious have long been anchors of faith, education, healthcare, and advocacy. By supporting NBSC, you invest in leadership that transforms congregations and communities, preserves a vital heritage, and sustains a powerful network of women who nurture hope and justice.

Get Involved:

Donate to sustain leadership programs, archives, and events.
Share NBSC’s story with your faith community and networks.
Volunteer your time or expertise to strengthen our initiatives.

Donation Link

Make a gift today: www.nbsc68.org/donations
Or give through #iGiveCatholic: https://www.igivecatholic.org/organization/National-Black-Sisters-Conference

What to expect

A vibrant gathering for Black women religious from across the nation to worship, learn, and lead together
Inspiring keynote addresses, workshops, and collaborative sessions focused on leadership, community building, and justice
Opportunities to connect with sisters, mentors, and partners, and to contribute to NBSC’s programs and future initiatives
Celebrations of history, heritage, and the continuing mission of Black women religious in service to communities

Why you should save the date

Be among the first to access early registration, special rates, and limited-capacity sessions
Help shape NBSC’s priorities for the coming year through participatory planning and dialogue
Enjoy a renewing experience that blends spirituality, advocacy, and sisterhood

How to stay informed

Sign up for NBSC newsletters to receive timely updates, announcements, and reminders
Check back often at our 2026 Annual Assembly info page for the latest details: www.nbsc68.org/aa2026

What you can do now

Mark your calendar with the dates
Share this Save the Date with fellow Black women religious, congregations, and NBSC allies
Consider subscribing to updates or volunteering to help with planning and logistics

We’re excited to come together to celebrate the rich leadership, history, and service of Black women religious. More details will be shared soon—stay tuned, stay connected, and save the date!

This NBSC retreat offered a purposeful blend of prayer, leadership reflection, and wellness for Black women religious, featuring participants from 2 of the 3 Black communities. The experience reinforced collaborative leadership, spiritual resilience, and actionable next steps for advocacy and holistic ministry. The full content below situates daily rhythms, Self-Care Workshops, and the path forward into 2026.

More of the Retreat Workshop

PRAYERS

TIPS FOR

During the 2024 Joint Conference, several sisters from the National Black Sisters' Conference (NBSC) gathered for a meaningful session with the NBSC Videographer. This initiative aimed to capture their unique stories, likenesses, and cherished memories on video, preserving the rich history and experiences of these remarkable women. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and reflection as each sister shared her journey, highlighting moments of faith, resilience, and community service that have shaped their lives and the lives of others. The videographer skillfully facilitated the discussions, ensuring that each narrative was documented with care and authenticity. This project not only honors their individual contributions but also serves to inspire future generations by showcasing the powerful legacy of the NBSC. "In Our Voices" will continue to document the stories and legacies of our beloved community. Stay for more Black women-religious sharing their legacies!

WATCH!

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ABOUT NBSC

The National Black Sisters’ Conference was founded in 1968 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania under the inspiration and direction of then Sister Martin de Porres Grey, RSM (now Patricia Grey, Ph.D.) and with the generous support and hospitality of the Most Reverend John J. Wright, Bishop of Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Sisters of Mercy.

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TO OUR BELOVED COMMUNITY

NBSC SPOTLIGHT

Honoring Sister Jamie T. Phelps, O.P.

Sister Jamie T. Phelps, O.P. (baptized Jamie Theresa Phelps, formerly Sister Martin Thomas), was a luminous and devoted daughter of God, a tireless scholar, and a fearless champion of justice and Black Catholic pastoral ministry. On Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Dominican Life Center in Adrian, Michigan, she passed from this life at the age of 84, in the 65th year of her religious profession with the Adrian Dominican Congregation. The NBSC community, the Adrian Dominic

Sister Spotlight: Sr. Chioma Ahanihu, SLW, D. Min

Sr. Chioma Ahanihu, SLW, is a member of Sisters of the Living Word in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Sister is also a member of NBSC. She was born and grew up in Nigeria and has lived in the US for the past two decades. Sr. Chioma earned a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Misericordia University and a master’s in social work from the Catholic University of America. In her quest to combine mental health and spirituality, she earned a Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies and a doctor

National Black Sisters Conference: Empowering Voices of Faith

By Sister LaKesha Church, CPPS I first learned about the National Black Sisters’ Conference (NBSC) at the very beginning of my discernment journey. As a novice Sister, I attended the National Black Catholic Congress and met members of the NBSC for the first time. Until that moment, I barely knew such an organization even existed. It was both intimidating and inspiring to stand among so many Black Sisters who had already given their lives to God. I remember thinking, “These ar

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AFFILIATES & FRIENDS

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OUR BELOVED SPIRIT-FILLED NETWORK

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