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- volved addressing many issues, including improving housing. At present, Dorothy is involved in parish work in Louisville, but she has also ministered on the Archdiocesan level.

She has served on SCN Congregational Boards as well as some very significant other boards, including the following: The Office of Multicultural Ministry, Network, Black Women’s Committee, Black Sisters’ Conference, and Two State Boards.

She loves to develop the talents and gifts of others and to assist people in sharing with their church and local community. It thrills Dorothy to organize groups to take action for a better future in their neighborhoods and beyond. Most important to her is being sure they have the skills to handle financial assistance on their own.

Dorothy shares, “My faith and rootedness in God keep me going to face new challenges daily. Jesus promised not to leave us alone, and I act on this promise!”The late Sr. Jamie T. Phelps, OP wrote on March 8, 2021, at 6:25 pm

“I knew 'Dot' Jackson through the National Black Sisters Conference, which was founded in 1968. She had great ideas to address the social needs of Black, poor, and working-class people. I am sure that she continues to use her practical wisdom to constructively help people help themselves. She is a true follower of Jesus who lived and died for the well-being and salvation of all, including the poor and marginalized people. The Jews were marginalized in the Roman Empire. Let us continue to pray for her personal well-being and success in her ministry.”