The late Bishop Joseph Howze of Biloxi, a trailblazer in the Catholic Church, will be memorialized on Friday, August 30. A plaque honoring his groundbreaking legacy as the first openly Black diocesan ordinary in the U.S. will be dedicated at Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church in Biloxi.
Pioneering Black Catholic Leader Remembered
Bishop Howze’s 24-year tenure as the first ordinary of the Biloxi diocese left an indelible mark. His commitment to inclusivity and service touched many lives. The Oran Caravan #67 Order of Alhambra, a Catholic fraternal order, spearheaded this tribute.
“The Church is for everybody,” Jim Rigby of the Alhambra Order told WLOX News. This sentiment echoes Howze’s own inclusive approach to his ministry. The bishop’s special connection with the special needs community was particularly noteworthy.
From Baptist Roots to Catholic Leadership
Howze’s journey to Catholic leadership was unique. Born into a Baptist family in Alabama, he converted to Catholicism as an adult. His path led him through religious life with the Josephites and a career in education.
In 1959, Howze became the first Black priest in North Carolina. His ascent continued with his appointment as Auxiliary Bishop of Natchez in 1972. Five years later, Pope Paul VI named him the founding ordinary of the newly created Diocese of Biloxi.
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges
As the first openly Black Catholic ordinary since the 19th century, Howze’s appointment was historic. He served as president of the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus and on various USCCB committees. His influence extended beyond the church, earning him honorary degrees from several universities.
Howze co-authored the 1984 pastoral letter “What We Have Seen and Heard.” This document, written by Black bishops, addressed evangelization in the African American community. His work continued to inspire until his passing in 2019 at age 95.
A Legacy of Charity and Inclusion
During his episcopate, Howze’s collaboration with the Alhambra Order led to significant charitable initiatives. One notable project was the Alhambra House in Gulfport. This four-bedroom facility, operated by Brandi’s Hope, serves the local special needs community.
Howze’s commitment to serving all members of his community set a powerful example. His work demonstrated the Church’s capacity to embrace and support diverse populations. This legacy continues to inspire Catholic leaders today.
Honoring a Life of Service
The plaque dedication ceremony will follow a 9 am CT Mass on Friday. Bishop Louis Kihneman III of Biloxi will celebrate the Mass at Our Mother of Sorrows. A reception in the parish hall will provide an opportunity for community reflection on Howze’s impact.
This memorial serves as a lasting tribute to Bishop Howze’s pioneering spirit. It reminds us of the progress made in diversifying church leadership. Moreover, it challenges current and future generations to continue the work of inclusion and service.
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