The Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE) is not just an organization for people of color. It is an organization that has been an agent of change in The Episcopal Church, rallying around social issues, such as racism in the church community.
It is the mission of UBE to unite the diverse cultures, concerns and gifts of Black Episcopalians by providing preparation and encouragement for living the Baptismal Covenant and fully participating in the mission and governance of The Episcopal Church.
Our community consists of all people who are in support of Inclusion and standing against racism. Rediscovering the power of love within our community, we hope to educate, encourage and lift up African Diaspora laity and clergy.
The Indianapolis chapter of the UBE was revitalized after Bishop Jennifer’s election in 2016 as the first Black female diocesan bishop in the history of the Episcopal Church.
Meetings
The second Monday of each month. No meeting in July and December
- Get to know Black Episcopalians and like minded individuals
- Education- Learn about Black Episcopalians and Historical Black Episcopal Churches
- Discuss issues faced by Black Episcopalians
- Brainstorm/Discuss upcoming events, current finances and ideas related to UBE
- Share things happening around the diocese
Upcoming Events
Celebration of The Rev. Absalom Jones
Saturday February 14, 2026 at 11:00 A.M.
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church
720 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
The Rev. Aaron Rogers, Missioner for Black Ministries, Diocese of Southern Ohio will offer the sermon at this Eucharist service. Music will be provided by members of Coro Latinoamericano along with some of St. Philip’s choir members. A reception with light refreshments will follow the service.
There is no cost for this event, but registration would be appreciated to ensure we plan appropriately for the reception.
The Rev. Absalom Jones
Nov. 7, 1746 to February 23, 1818
Absalom Jones was ordained in September of 1802 and became America’s first black priest in the Episcopal church. He was a significant figure in early American history, known for his role as a religious leader and advocate for African American rights.
We hope you will join us for a celebration of The Reverend Jones and his important legacy!
UBE Membership
To join UBE as an Individual (or Family) member, please click here . To become a congregational sponsor, please click here.
Officers
Chaplain: Valeria Phillips
President: Position Currently Open
Vice-President: Louise Boling
Secretary: Milicent Wright
Treasurer: Michael McGraw
The Episcopal Awakening
In 2020, Diocesan Convention passed a chapter-sponsored resolution, charging Indianapolis UBE with leading a diocese-wide effort to:
- study the “historic complicity” of the diocese, its congregations, members and partners “in acts of prejudice, discrimination, racism, and systemic oppression”
- present to all succeeding conventions a compilation of its work “in a video documentary presentation, an audio collection, and a digital collection,”
- make “recommendations for next steps in reconciliation, healing, and equity…”
Read the enabling resolution, and view The Episcopal Awakening Documentary above.
National Union of Black Episcopalians
View more videos from the national UBE YouTube channel.
Visit the national UBE website for more about regional conferences, events, communication and information across the United States. Join the chapter’s Facebook group.
