“O sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.” • Psalm 96:1 Melisma Melisma is a vocal technique that involves sliding through various notes while holding on to one syllable. Think of Whitney Houston singing “I...
Black Catholic praise music is a gift for the whole church
The Black Catholic musical tradition is a source of wonder, hope, and inspiration—and a reminder that we're all neighbors in God's kingdom.
New from our staff
February 2026
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE CURRENT ISSUE
The people’s liturgy
At an immigrant detention center, Catholic liturgies proclaim solidarity with victims of injustice.
BY CASSIDY KLEIN
Many voices
Musical polyphony is one of the many gifts Black Catholics bring to the church
BY ALEXANDER WALTON
Holy lives
The story of Black Catholics in the United States is one of firm devotion and faithfulness.
AN INTERVIEW WITH TIA NOELLE PRATT
A liturgy of abundance
Inclusive parish life and the traditional liturgy could go hand in hand, if we let them.
BY REBECCA BRATTEN WEISS
Our sacrament
Amidst cultural and religious differences, one couple built a new, unified wedding tradition.
BY FABIO COLORADO AND SELAH LONG
“God is on the side of the oppressed. How can we stay silent? The church always has to raise its voice.”
Irma Hernandez
