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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

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!

JULY 26 - 30th

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NBSC Issues Call for Justice, Transparency, and Safe Civic Action in Minneapolis...... READ MORE

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.

IBCS SUMMER 2026

2026 IBSC CHECKLIST
2026 IBSC BROCHURE

The Institute for Black Catholic Studies (IBCS) will convene on the campus of Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA) in New Orleans for its 47th summer semester.

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

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!

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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

Sister in the Spotlight Sr. Mary Ann Henagan, MSBT

Sr. Mary Ann Henagan was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and raised as a Baptist. From her early teens, she felt the call of God’s grace to join the Catholic Church and do something special with her life. This call, unknown to Mary Ann at the time, was always supported by her mother’s prayers. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit and her pastor, she entered the Missionary Servants of the Most Blessed Trinity. Sr. Mary Ann earned a nursing degree and later an MA in Spiritual Directio

Sister in Spotlight: Sr. Dorothy Jackson, SCN

Dorothy Jackson grew up in Ohio with five brothers, her mother, and her stepfather. Her mother was a faithful Baptist, but sent her children to a Catholic school, which led to their conversion to Catholicism. Her mother worked in politics all her life, so it was natural for Dorothy to be interested in it. Dorothy has spent much of her ministry in city, county, state, and federal political ministry as a community organizer, consultant, and long-range planner. This work in- vol

Sister Spotlight: Sr. Jerome Lacy, OSF

Sister Mary Jerome lives in Elizabeth Hall. She feels so blessed by all of the enrichment activities that are provided for the Sisters and participates in as many activities as she can and enjoys the great variety offered. Not only does she get her physical exercise by at- tending the morning stretch, but her mind gets a workout by participating in brain aerobics. On Tuesday afternoons, Kim Brewer, the activity director, meets with a group of Sisters who have learned to knit