
Sister Thea Bowman, a Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration,
lived life with hope, love and justice.
Born December 29, 1937, in Yazoo City, Miss., Thea was reared as a
Methodist until at age nine when she asked her parents if she could
become a Catholic.
Gifted with a brilliant mind, beautiful voice and a dynamic
personality, Sr. Thea shared the message of God’s love through a
teaching career. After 16 years of teaching, at the elementary,
secondary and university level, the bishop of Jackson, Miss., invited
her to become the consultant for intercultural awareness.
In her role as consultant Sr. Thea, an African-American, gave
presentations across the country — lively gatherings that combined
singing, gospel preaching, prayer and storytelling. Her programs were
directed to break down racial and cultural barriers. She encouraged
people to communicate with one another so that they could understand
other cultures and races.
In 1984, Sr. Thea was diagnosed with terminal bone cancer. She prayed
"to live until I die — to live fully." Her prayer was answered, and
Thea continued her gatherings seated in a wheelchair. In 1989, the
U.S. bishops invited her to be a key speaker at their conference on
Black Catholics. At the end of the meeting, at Thea’s invitation, the
bishops stood and sang "We Shall Overcome" with gusto.
Thea lived a full life. She fought evil, especially prejudice,
suspicion, hatred and things that drive people apart. She fought for
God and God’s people until her death in 1990.
Books by Thea Bowman
- Sister Thea Bowman, Shooting Star: Selected Writings and
Speeches
- Families: Black and Catholic, Catholic and Black Readings,
Resources, and Family Activities
- Get Right, Church!
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