Jamie T. Phelps facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sister
Jamie T. Phelps
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Jamie Phelps
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| Born | October 24, 1941 Alabama, U.S.
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| Died | November 22, 2025 (aged 84) Adrian, Michigan, U.S.
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| Alma mater | Catholic University of America |
| Occupation | Theologian |
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Sister Jamie Theresa Phelps (October 24, 1941 – November 22, 2025) was an important American Catholic scholar. She was known for her deep studies in theology, which is the study of religious faith and beliefs. Sister Phelps, who was African American, made special contributions to a field called womanist theology. This way of thinking explores faith from the unique experiences and perspectives of Black women.
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Who Was Sister Jamie Phelps?
Sister Jamie Phelps dedicated her life to learning, teaching, and serving others. She was a respected voice in religious studies. Her work helped many people understand faith in new and meaningful ways.
Her Early Life and Calling
Jamie Phelps was born in Alabama, U.S., on October 24, 1941. She was the youngest of six children in a Catholic family. In 1959, she chose to become an Adrian Dominican Sister. This means she joined a community of Catholic women who commit their lives to God. They often serve others through education, healthcare, or social work.
A Life of Learning and Teaching
Sister Phelps was a lifelong student and teacher. She earned several degrees from different universities. These included a bachelor's degree in sociology, science, and mathematics. She also earned a master's degree in social work and another master's in theology.
Later, she earned her PhD in systematic theology from the Catholic University of America. Her doctoral research was published in 1989.
Sister Phelps shared her knowledge at many universities. She taught at Catholic Theological Union at Chicago, Loyola University, Chicago, and Seattle University. For eight years, she led the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans. There, she was also the Katharine Drexel Professor of Systematic Theology.
She also helped restart the annual meetings of the Black Catholic Theological Symposium in 1991. This group brings together Black Catholic scholars to discuss important topics in faith and community.
Sister Jamie Phelps passed away on November 22, 2025, at the age of 84.
Honoring Her Work
Throughout her life, Sister Phelps received many awards for her important contributions.
- In 1999, she received the Harriet Tubman Award. This award, given by the National Black Sisters’ Conference, honors members who advocate for Black people. Harriet Tubman was a famous hero who helped many people find freedom.
- In 2010, she was given the Ann O'Hara Graff Memorial Award. This award came from the Women's Seminar in Constructive Theology of the Catholic Theological Society of America.
- In 2016, Sister Phelps received The “How Beautiful Are Their Feet” Award. This was presented at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference. This conference is a gathering of African American faith leaders.
- Also in 2016, she received an honorary doctorate from Aquinas Institute of Theology. This special degree recognized her lifetime of achievements.
- In March 2025, Sister Phelps was honored during the Catholic Theological Union’s Harambee celebration. This event supports the Augustus Tolton Pastoral Ministry Program. This program helps train future leaders for the Black Catholic community.
