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Upper Marlboro Today
By the People, for the People
Upper Marlboro students honor Black Catholic history at school Mass
Bishop Campbell celebrates Black History Month at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic School
Published on Feb. 13, 2026
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Students at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic School in Upper Marlboro marked Black History Month with a special Mass led by Washington Auxiliary Bishop Roy Campbell Jr. He highlighted Black Catholics on the path to sainthood and urged students to see God's image in themselves and one another, with many local children taking active roles in the liturgy.
Why it matters
The Mass celebrated the contributions and experiences of Black Catholics, an important but often overlooked part of the Church's history. By honoring this heritage, the school is helping to promote diversity, inclusion, and a greater understanding of the Catholic faith's diversity.
The details
Bishop Campbell's homily focused on prominent Black Catholics who are on the path to sainthood, including Servant of God Thea Bowman and Venerable Pierre Toussaint. He encouraged the students to embrace their own dignity and see the image of God in themselves and their peers. Many students participated in the Mass as lectors, altar servers, and in the choir.
- The special Mass was held on February 13, 2026 to mark Black History Month.
The players
Bishop Roy Campbell Jr.
Washington Auxiliary Bishop who celebrated the Black History Month Mass at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic School.
St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic School
A Catholic school in Upper Marlboro, Maryland where the special Mass was held.
What they’re saying
“We must honor the Black Catholics who have walked the path to sainthood and see the image of God in ourselves and one another.”
— Bishop Roy Campbell Jr., Washington Auxiliary Bishop (cathstan.org)
The takeaway
By celebrating the contributions of Black Catholics, St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic School is helping to promote diversity, inclusion, and a greater understanding of the rich history and diversity within the Catholic faith.
