Black History Month was created in February 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, known as the Father of Black History. February was chosen by Woodson for the week-long observance—as it coincides with the birthdates of President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Both men played a significant role in helping to end slavery.

In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History month. Since his administration, every American president has recognized Black History Month and its mission. But it was not until Congress passed “National Black History Month” into law, in 1986, that many in the country began to observe it formally.

Over the years, Black Catholic Priests and Sisters have served our Diocese and many other Dioceses across the U.S. and the world very faithfully and have made a difference in the lives of many families like our beloved Bishop Emeritus J. Terry Steib, SVD.

Many blessings and thank you to Bishop Emeritus Steib for his numerous years of dedicated service and spiritual leadership for our Diocese and the Lord—and, as he says, “God is Good, All the Time and All the Time, God is Good!