Believing the Black Catholic population in the Capital District was under-served, in 1983 with the blessing of Bishop Howard Hubbard, the Black Catholic Apostolate (BCA) was founded by Fr. Kofi Ntsiful Amissah, an ordained priest of the Albany Diocese born and raised in Ghana.

   The goal of the Black Catholic Apostolate was to bring Black Catholics and those looking for a more dynamic and spirit-filled liturgy back to the Catholic Church in a setting that incorporated the teachings of the Church, the music and rhythm of the African-American and African cultures, and readings and prayer particularly meaningful to Mass participants.

   From the handful of people who began the Black Apostolate in 1983, the faith community has grown to over 120 families. Members are Black, African, Asian, Cuban, American Indian, Hispanic, Latino, West Indian, and Caucasian – coming from all walks of life and from all over the Capital District. 

  The Black Catholic Apostolate is part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany and is located at St. Joan of Arc Church in Menands, New York. Mass  is celebrated each Sunday at 10:15am. 
All are welcome!

40th Anniversary Committee

Ngozi Aghenuna
Tsatsu Fiadjoe
Bennita Givens
Jacquie King
Chris Kippins
Mabatho Matima
Ralph Ogbu
Sharon Prescott
Akuna Ubanni
Veronica Ukpere