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Union of Black Episcopalians

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

Every Third Tuesday, 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

  • Spring Gathering w/ Black Clergy
  • 2/10- Abalsom Jones Service
  • 4/28- Field Trip to Historical Black Congregation (TBD)
  • Juneteenth Fundraiser 
  • Juneteenth Activity
  • National UBE Business Conference
  • Fall Gathering

If you would like to join the UBE Membership, please click here for the Congregational membership registration and please click here for the Individual membership registration

Officers

Chaplin: Valeria Philips
PresidentMichaela Flash
Vice-President: Mariann Scott
SecretaryWendy Curto
TreasurerMichael 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.

© 2021 Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis