Josephites (Maryland)

The Josephites, officially known as the Society of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart, are a Catholic society of priests and brothers dedicated to serving the African American community in the United States. Founded in 1888 in Baltimore, Maryland, after separating from the Mill Hill Missionaries of England, the Josephites' primary mission is to evangelize and minister to African Americans, promoting social justice and equality.

The society operates parishes, schools, and outreach programs primarily in historically Black communities across the Southern and Eastern United States. Key areas of focus include providing Catholic education, pastoral care, and addressing issues related to poverty, discrimination, and systemic inequality.

The Josephites have played a significant role in the development of the African American Catholic Church and have historically advocated for civil rights and racial reconciliation. They continue to work towards fostering a more inclusive and just society through their ministry and advocacy efforts. The headquarters of the Josephites remains in Baltimore, Maryland.