THE DIRECTOR’S WELCOME

The late Pope Francis reminded us that “An authentic faith – which is never comfortable or completely personal – always involves a deep desire to change the world, to transmit values, to leave this world somehow better than we found it.”  It is in this spirit that students, faculty and staff travel each summer to the Institute for Black Catholic Studies (IBCS), a school of ministry that forms the faithful in Christian discipleship to meet the demands of the 21st century.  

The 2026 IBCS will gather on the campus of Xavier University of Louisiana in its 47th summer session from June 28-July 17.  Featured on this website is the list of IBCS Degree Program offerings. In the coming weeks, Returning Degree students will be able to complete their applications and pre-register for classes.  New Degree students will apply through the Xavier University Office of Graduate Programs. See here for more information: https://www.xula.edu/graduateschool/graduate-admissions.html.   

The 2026 Continuing Education and Enrichment course list is currently being built and will highlight the classes for each of the weeks of the C&E Programs.   

Check this space frequently for updates on the 2026 IBCS. 

Institute participants commit themselves to rigorous Christian formation – intellectual, spiritual, cultural – in a community of co-learners.  Courses in the Degree and C&E programs are rooted in Black Catholic theology, ministry, liturgy and the arts.  

Thanking God and the IBCS ancestors in faith who keep us on track, our exceptional faculty, dedicated staff, steadfast graduates and students;  Xavier University that faithfully supports the Institute each year,   

 

Amen, Ashe! 

Kathleen Dorsey Bellow, D. Min., 

IBCS Director