Celebrating Nicholas Black Elk, Lakota Holy Man
On Sunday, August 17, St. Agnes Parish on the Pine Ridge Reservation will celebrate a special Mass commemorating the death of Nicholas Black Elk, a revered Lakota holy man, catechist and servant of God. From a young age, Black Elk received spiritual visions and became widely respected among the Lakota people for his deep prayer, wisdom and care for others. Throughout his life, he prayed with and for his community, helped heal the sick, shared the Catholic faith and worked to build understanding and unity between Native and non-Native peoples. His cause for canonization is now open, inviting the wider Church to learn from his witness of faith, humility and hope.
As a visible sign of our relationship with our twinning parish, St. Agnes, St. Thomas will also remember Nicholas Black Elk at the 8:30 am Mass August 17. Information about his life and legacy will be shared, and the Mass will include special prayers in his honor. All are welcome to attend this special liturgy and to remain afterward for refreshments and community.
