THE DIRECTOR’S WELCOME

 

(S)ynodality enables the entire People of God to walk forward together, listening to the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, to participate in the mission of the Church in the communion that Christ establishes between us. Ultimately, this path of walking together is the most effective way of manifesting and putting into practice the nature of the Church as the pilgrim and missionary People of God (PD, 1).

 

In 1980, inspired by the 20th century Black cultural movements and Vatican Council II (1962-65), the Institute for Black Catholic Studies was established to bring African American cultures and lifestyles fully in communion with the Catholic faith, already practiced by generations of Black faithful. Building on the contributions of IBCS founders, early faculty and staff, the IBCS continues to provide a learning environment and community life that forms Christian disciples to meet the evangelization and ministry demands of the 21st century. Institute participants commit themselves to rigorous Christian formation - intellectual, spiritual, cultural – in a community of co-learners. Courses in the Degree and C&E programs are rooted in Black Catholic theology, ministry, liturgy and the arts.

In recent years, Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIV have called the Church to synodality – a style that continues Vatican Council II teachings, in which members of the Catholic Church journey together, all involved in deep listening, discernment and participation in its Christian mission. This summer, we will intentionally introduce synodal approaches to our IBCS way of life.

The 2026 IBCS will gather once again June 28-July 17 on the campus of Xavier University of Louisiana for its 47th summer session. Featured on this website is pertinent information for application to the Degree or Continuing Education and Enrichment programs. Check this space frequently for updates on the 2026 IBCS. Note that deadlines are fast approaching.

In this Easter season, we thank God and the IBCS ancestors who keep us on track, our exceptional faculty, dedicated staff, steadfast graduates and students and Xavier University that faithfully supports the Institute each year. We look forward to welcoming you! Amen, Ashe!

Kathleen Dorsey Bellow, D. Min.,
IBCS Director 

 

Save the Date: June 28 - July 17, 2026

"...those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength..."

~Is 40:31

"The Institute for Black Catholic Studies (IBCS) is a sanctum for the exploration of a Black theological tradition and a haven for a deep, immersive communal experience. At Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA), students learn the beautiful interplay of the theological, cultural, historical, and aesthetic. Whether sharpened as scholar or fortified as religious practitioner, students leave the institute better prepared to engage the world. Anchored in the vision of the Ancestors in Faith, IBCS remains dedicated to the serious study of Blackness and the creative strengthening of a purpose-driven ministry."

Ernest L. Gibson III, Ph.D.

English Professor and Director of African American & Africana Studies

Auburn University and Professor, IBCS Degree Program