RALEIGH – The Diocese of Raleigh's African Heritage Mass was celebrated Sunday, Aug. 24, at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral. Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama presided, and Father Marcos León offered the homily.
This annual Mass honors the gifts of the African ancestry communities in the Diocese of Raleigh, including African American, Caribbean and African migrant Catholics. This year’s celebration reflected the community’s rich diversity, with national flags carried in the entrance procession by elders and founding families, and prayers and music offered in multiple languages such as French, Igbo, Kikongo, Lingala and Swahili.
In his homily, Father León reflected on the Gospel passage about the “narrow gate” to Heaven, urging families to “teach young people to fear God” and reminding all that faith requires not just listening, but following. He also shared memories of ministry in Raleigh dating back to 1996, noting the growth of African clergy and communities over the decades. “No individual priest or people can do the work alone,” he said. “Only God can bring people together.”
Following Mass, the community gathered in the Cathedral hall for a joyful celebration with music and food from Igbo, Swahili, Caribbean and American traditions.
The African Heritage Mass and cultural celebration are organized by the Diocese of Raleigh’s Office of Evangelization and Discipleship, supported through the Bishop’s Annual Appeal.
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