Photos by Richard Sylvester and Renée Fisher
APEX, N.C. - Parishioners from across the Diocese of Raleigh gathered Dec. 6 to celebrate the African American Catholic Community Mass, fellowship and presentations at St. Andrew the Apostle Church. The event was hosted by St. Michael the Archangel Church’s chapter of the African Ancestry Ministry Evangelization Network.
Padre Marcos Leon-Angulo, chaplain for the AACC, presided at the Mass. He was assisted by Deacon Bernard Zdancewicz of St. John the Baptist Parish in Roanoke Rapids and Deacon Michael Brown of Holy Cross Parish in Durham. Music for the liturgy was provided by the Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral Spiritual Choir under the direction of Harry Taylor, whose leadership helped guide the assembly in hymns reflective of both African American Catholic culture and the Advent season.
The theme for the day, “Centered on Dignity and Human Life,” framed the liturgy and the fellowship that followed. Deacon Bernie delivered the homily, drawing from the optional daily readings for the Memorial of St. Nicholas, Bishop of Myra. The deacon reminded the congregation that Advent is not only a season of preparation, but also a call to action.
He referenced Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1967 sermon, “A Christmas Sermon on Peace,” quoting Dr. King’s reflection on a world troubled by fear, division and war. He noted that although those words were spoken during the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement, they remain strikingly relevant today. Deacon Bernie encouraged the assembly to pray for guidance and discernment, asking God to inspire each person to offer their time, talent, and treasure in service to others.
Quoting the familiar response from the prophet Isaiah, he concluded with a challenge: “Here I am, Lord. Send me.”
He urged the community to become God’s eyes and hands for those who are struggling, reminding all present that “it is time to get to work.”
Following Mass, the gathering continued in the parish hall, where tables were adorned with Advent wreath centerpieces — visible reminders of the season of hope and preparation for the coming of Christ. Participants enjoyed lunch and presentations that expanded upon the day’s theme.
Sara Davis, a social worker for Wake County Public School System’s Students in Transition Program, shared an overview of the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and highlighted the growing needs of students experiencing homelessness, particularly in Wake County and other metropolitan areas. Her presentation underscored the importance of advocacy, awareness and community support for vulnerable children and families.
Deacon Michael followed with a presentation rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, focusing on “The Option for the Poor and Vulnerable.” He offered a deeper theological reflection on the Church’s call to stand with those on the margins and challenged attendees to consider practical ways to respond to homelessness within their own communities.
At the conclusion of the day, participants expressed gratitude for a spirit-filled, informative and welcoming gathering. The AACC, which celebrates Mass together quarterly, extends an open invitation to all to attend future events. The next event is scheduled for March 21 at Holy Cross Church in Durham.
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