Awareness of the Catholic Church’s—and the Jesuits’— role in slavery in the United States has grown in recent years thanks to reporting and research from journalists, univerisities and descendents. But there is still much that remains unknown about the enslaved people owned, rented and borrowed by the Catholic Church: How many of them were there? Who are their descendents? What were their day-to-day lives like? 

The Slavery, History, Memory, and Reconciliation Project, a collaboration between the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States and St. Louis University, is working to uncover the untold stories of enslaved peoples. We talk with Jonathan Smith and Laura Weiss from the project about what they’ve learned so far and what they hope to achieve. 

In Signs of the Times, we break down the controversy surrounding Cardinal Robert Sarah’s new book on celibacy and what Pope Benedict’s role is in it. We also look at how Catholic bishops are advocating for refugee resettlement on the state level and a new marriage prep program in Spain.

Thoughts on the show? Join the discussion with other Jesuitical listeners in our Facebook group. Also, thank you to everyone who has responded so far for our call for new Patreon supporters. We can’t do it without your support. 

 

Links from the Show: 

Slavery, History, Memory and Reconciliation

Benedict XVI has asked Cardinal Sarah to have his name removed from the book on priestly celibacy

Texas Catholics decry Governor’s decision to spurn refugees

Minn. Catholic, Lutheran bishops' open letter backs refugee admission

Catholic church in Spain launches years-long marriage training for couples

 

What’s on tap? 

The Chilton, as recommended by listener Isaiah Lucio Lopez.

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