Posted November 7, 2017

Archbishop Charles Chaput was principal celebrant and homilist for the 55th annual St. Martin de Porres Mass on Friday, Nov. 3 at St. Athanasius Church in Philadelphia. Black Catholics and other faithful young and old gathered to praise God in song, hear his word through Scripture and worship him in the Eucharist. Read the full story of the Mass, including highlights of the archbishop’s homily. (Photos by D’Mont Reese)

  • The Philadelphia Catholic Mass Choir leads the congregation in song.

  • The entrance procession is framed by an honor guard of the Knights of Columbus.

  • Archbishop Charles Chaput processes into St. Athanasius Church.

  • Archbishop Chaput consecrates the Eucharist at Mass along with 11 other priests serving in Philadelphia parishes.

  • Father Stephen Thorne, pastor of St. Martin de Porres Parish in Philadelphia, distributes holy Communion to faithful on the saint’s feast day Mass Nov. 3 at St. Athanasius Church, Philadelphia.

  • The Ladies Auxiliary of the Knights of Peter Claver show their deep faith with joy. (Photo by D’Mont Reese)

  • Archbishop Charles Chaput, celebrant for the St. Martin de Porres Mass Nov. 3 at St. Athanasius Church, blesses an altar server. (Photo by D’Mont Reese)

  • Young people at the Mass hold signs of the five exemplary African-American Catholics who cause for sainthood is sought.

  • Kenny Arrington (left, seated) directs the Philadelphia Catholic Mass Choir.