Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church |
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The church in 2009
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| Location | 304 Sengstak Street Mobile, Alabama |
| Country | United States |
| Denomination | Roman Catholic |
| Religious institute | Society of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart |
| Website | www.mobilearchdiocese.org |
| History | |
| Founded | 1899 |
| Architecture | |
| Style | Neoclassical |
| Years built | 1908 |
| Administration | |
| Parish | Most Pure Heart of Mary |
| Diocese | Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Mobile |
Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church is a special Catholic church located in Mobile, Alabama. It is looked after by a group of priests called the Josephites. This church is famous because a very important group, the Knights of Peter Claver, started here in 1909. This group is the biggest and oldest organization for Black Catholics in the United States. Later, people from this church, including its priests, played a big part in the Civil Rights Movement, working for fairness and equal rights for everyone.
History of Most Pure Heart of Mary Church
Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church began as a "mission" in 1899. A mission is like a new church outreach in an area. It was started by the Society of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart. Their goal was to serve the Creole community of African descent in Mobile. The first Josephite priests to work there were Rev. Joseph St. Laurent and Rev. Louis Pastorlli.
Early School and Church Building
By 1901, a small school was set up for the children. This school, called Most Pure Heart of Mary School, is still open today. At first, regular church members, known as the laity, taught at the school. But in October 1902, five Sisters of St. Francis arrived from Glen Riddle, Pennsylvania. They took over teaching at the school.
The main church building was finished in 1908. It was officially named Most Pure Heart of Mary. This name honors the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is very important in the Catholic faith.
Role in the Civil Rights Movement
During the Civil Rights Movement in the United States, this church became a center for change. The Civil Rights Movement was a time when many people worked to end unfair treatment and gain equal rights for African Americans. Priests and nuns from Most Pure Heart of Mary Church joined in. They took part in boycotts and demonstrations. A boycott is when people refuse to buy or use something to protest. A demonstration is a public gathering to show support or protest.
The church also served as a meeting place for a group called Neighborhood Organized Workers (NOW). NOW was formed in Mobile in July 1966. Its main goal was to achieve equality for the African American community. The church provided a safe space for these important meetings.
Today, Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church is recognized for its historical importance. It is listed on the African American Heritage Trail of Mobile. This trail highlights places that are significant to African American history and culture.
