In the fall of 2024, an important anniversary will highlight the great contributions of African American Catholics in the Church. This is the 40th anniversary of the publication of “What We Have Seen and Heard”, a pastoral letter published in 1984 by the six black American bishops at the time. This anniversary will be celebrated with a local event.

  • A 1-day event is planned for November 24th — A celebration of the Solemnity of Christ the King on Sunday at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains with Wilton Cardinal Gregory presider and homilist; Archbishop Schnurr, concelebrant

Learn More below:

Archdiocese of Cincinnati and University of Dayton
jointly sponsor

Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Pastoral Letter

What We Have Seen and Heard:
Academic Symposium

Date: Friday, November 22, 3:00pm – 8:00pm; Saturday, November 23, 9:00am – 8:00pm

Location: University of Dayton, Curran Center

Our keynote and workshop presenters are:

  • Dr. Kim R. Harris
  • Most Rev. Edward K. Braxton
  • Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Brown, SJ
  • Dr. Deanna Witkowski, presenting on Mary Lou Williams and Eddie Bonnemere
  • LaRyssa D. Herrington and Dr. Byron Wratee, presenting on sacramental theology
  • Dr. Kevin Johnson, presenting on African American Catholic liturgical music
  • Nick Wagner, presenting on Effective Worship 
  • Dr. Darnell St. Romain and Dr. Darrell St. Romain, presenting on Black Catholic composers
  • A Summative Panel Discussion, about the legacy of WWHSH
  • Mr. Johnathon Kelso Symposium Art Installation: “HIMSELF / HIS GRACE”

For more information, contact Deacon Royce Winters, [email protected]

Resources