A Journey of Discovery
CHARLESTON, S.C. — On Oct. 5, 50 parishioners from across the Diocese of Charlotte embarked on a journey to Charleston, South Carolina, to visit the International African American Museum. This powerful experience was a joint venture between the diocese’s African American Affairs Ministry and the Social Justice Ministry of St. Peter Catholic Parish in Charlotte. The trip’s purpose aligned with the ministries’ shared mission of evangelization and community outreach, while also educating participants on the African American journey and how African Americans have shaped U.S. history and culture.
The group represented five parishes: Our Lady of Consolation, St. Peter and St. Matthew in Charlotte, Queen of the Apostles in Belmont, and St. James the Greater in Concord.
They participated in a self-guided tour of the International African American Museum, which explores African and African American history, culture and heritage.
For many, the museum’s Center for Family History was particularly meaningful. Participant Catherine Gomez said, “I felt an incredible connection to my ancestors as I learned about the tools available to trace African American family histories. It was both educational and emotional, a true reminder of where we come from.”
After leaving the museum, the group enjoyed a driving tour of historic Charleston, led by John Hodgson. Hodgson guided participants through the city’s lower downtown and the Battery, weaving together the historical context of the enslaved Africans’ labor with the beauty and wealth of the city they helped build.
“Seeing Charleston from this perspective after the museum was a profound experience,” said Jenny Cox of St. Peter. “It reinforced the importance of understanding how intertwined our history is with the sacrifices of African Americans.”
As the bus made its way back to Charlotte, participants reflected on the day’s events.
Pat McDonald of Our Lady of Consolation said, “This trip was not just educational, it was spiritual. It deepened my understanding of the strength and resilience of the African American community, and it reinforced how we, as a Church, are called to support justice and healing.”
— Catholic News Herald
