- May 10, 2017 Association, Sister Stories
by Sarah Baker
The good works and charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet were ever-present as members from our community were honored during the Saint Charles Lwanga Center’s 34th Annual Testimonial Dinner and Auction on April 30. The event honors leaders in the African-American Catholic community.
Our very own Sister Barbara Moore, CSJ and Associate Corliss Cox, CSJA were each bestowed the Father Edward F. Feuerbacher Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to those who are committed to making a difference, inspiring and contributing to the success of others to help them reach their life goals.
Sister Barbara Moore has made an inspirational and historical impact throughout her life’s ministry of serving the dear neighbor and working for justice as a nurse, administrator, board member, while also reaching out to the poor and marginalized. She was the first African-American to join the Sisters of St. Joseph and is a “Sister of Selma,” participating in the historical voting rights marches in 1965. She is also a prolific author of several article and research studies.
“I am blessed to have had many faithful companions during my life’s journey,” says Sister Barbara. “For all of these blessings, I give thanks.”
Corliss served the Archdiocese of St. Louis for more than 30 years mentoring youth and young adults. She worked for the Ujima Youth Program and the St. Charles Lwanga Center, facilitating numerous retreats, leadership development programs, academic and cultural experiences, teen radio interns, vocation exposures and so much more. In 2011, she celebrated her on-going commitment to become as associate of the Sisters of St. Joseph’s.
“The ministry for youth was a vision of many,” says Corliss. “We were all on this journey together.”
Though the event is mainly focused on the ministry of the church within the neighborhoods, CSJ-sponsored Fontbonne University received accolades for their support of Saint Charles Lwanga Center and the partnerships that continue to be formed between these two organizations. Two members of the Fontbonne community were recognized.
Dr. Mary Beth Gallagher, assistant to the president for mission integration, was an adult honoree, honored for her participation in student panels on racism, alienation and discrimination. She has also helped bring the Tunnel of Oppression to Fontbonne and she engages in public protests against the mistreatment of blacks and others.
DeMarcus Davis, a graduating senior, was a young adult honoree recognized for his dedication to serving the good neighbor and his involvement in numerous organizations: Residence Hall Association, Black Student Union, Student Government Association and Campus Ministry. After graduation, he will be doing a year of service with the Marianist Pulse Program in Dayton, Ohio.
We, the Sisters of St. Joseph, are proud of and congratulate our honorees for their leadership in the African-American Catholic community.
To learn more about Sister Barbara or Corliss, click here.