The content and structure of this new facility will boost the ongoing training of the student staff and Newman Organization members. The principle of education that is multicultural guides the development of programs and presentations. Students who are involved with the center do not just learn about cultures but experience them through worship and service. They become aware that not only are they a part of the church but that the Catholic Church in particular is given image and substance by them not simply those of European heritage. Scripture study is conducted in such a way that students appreciate the African presence in the scriptures.
Worship is conducted in a building reflecting the earliest of Christian faith traditions.
African idioms and symbols will be at once instructive and inspirational obviating the ethic of obligation. Vestments and vessels are being procured which reflect African American tastes and traditions. A liturgically based music program emphasizing total community participation is in process. Hopefully, in the future a professional liturgist conversant with these issues will be incorporated into the program. We hope to commission a comprehensive representation in art of the history of African American Roman Catholics.