Wednesday, February 4, 2026: She lived like a shooting star: The life of Sister Thea Bowman

Born Dec. 29, 1937, in Yazoo City, Mississippi, Thea was reared as a Protestant until at age nine when she asked her parents if she could become a Catholic. Gifted with a brilliant mind, beautiful voice and a dynamic personality, Sister Thea shared the message of God's love through a teaching career. 

After 16 years of teaching, at the elementary, secondary and university level, the bishop of Jackson, Mississippi, invited her to become the consultant for intercultural awareness. In her role as consultant Sister Thea, an African American, gave presentations across the country; lively gatherings that combined singing, gospel preaching, prayer and storytelling. Her programs were directed to break down racial and cultural barriers. 

She encouraged people to communicate with one another so that they could understand other cultures and races.

In 1984, Sister Thea was diagnosed with breast cancer. She prayed "to live until I die." Her prayer was answered, and Thea continued her gatherings seated in a wheelchair. In 1989, the U.S. bishops invited her to be a key speaker at their conference on Black Catholics. At the end of the meeting, at Thea's invitation, the bishops stood and sang "We Shall Overcome" with gusto. 

Thea lived a full life. She fought evil, especially prejudice, suspicion, hatred and things that drive people apart. She fought for God and God's people until her death in 1990. 

The Diocese of Jackson will soon hold a closing ceremony for the diocesan phase of the sainthood cause for Servant of God Thea Bowman, the Mississippi religious sister who helped lead the Black Catholic Movement.

Bishop Joseph Kopacz will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving during Black History Month at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle on Monday, Feb. 9, followed by official proceedings to mark the transition of the cause to the Roman Phase, which could soon see Bowman named "Venerable" by the pope.

The diocesan phase, which involves years of research and information gathering on the life and work of a sainthood candidate, was slightly behind schedule for Bowman. Diocesan archivist and chancellor Mary Woodward said in October 2024 that there were hopes the process would be completed last summer. 

"We invite you to pray for the cause, especially for the historical commission, the theological censors, the transcribers, and the postulator as we continue to follow this unique and noble path," Woodward wrote. 

"And of course, ask SOG Sr. Thea to guide us from above with patience and joy."

In November of last year, Woodward shared that the diocesan phase was in its final stages, including the finalization of official biographical and other research that will be sent to Rome after the ceremony in February.

Watch this documentary about the amazing and wonderful Sister Thea Bowman

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9oOa2iOwck