April 29

Today is the feast day of Catherine of Siena, a mystic Dominican and theologian, who died in 1380. She experienced a vision in which she was married to Christ. She became a politically influential peacemaker in medieval Europe. 

Today is the birthday, in 1873, of Mary Theresa Ledóchowska, a Roman Catholic religious sister who organized against African slavery, especially of women, and for missionary work in Africa.

Today is also the birthday, in 1961, of Willie James Jennings, a current Yale theologian who looks historically and theologically at the marriage of white supremacy, colonialism, and Christianity since the 1400’s. He is also the author of a commentary on Acts that should be required reading for every preacher. 

Reflection:

Catherine of Siena wrote: 

Willie James Jennings has written: 

Prayer: Gracious and ever-merciful God, white supremacy and colonialism have deformed the way we live and believe. Christianity as we know it has been infected with this sin. Yet you are always telling your people, “Behold, I am doing a new thing.” Renew your people with a renunciation of the ways of domination and colonialism, and a commitment to your just and equitable Way. Turn the world around. Amen.