By Samantha Smith | Special to the Catholic Review

The Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court #2257 at St. Francis Xavier in East Baltimore is not only a pillar of spiritual service but also a historic force in Black Catholic life. Earlier this year, that legacy continued as the court celebrated the 15th anniversary of its Unsung Black Catholic Woman Award.

Three women – youth honoree Varia Alston and adult recipients Nina Shipman and Kay G. Bee – joined more than 80 others honored over the past 15 years for their faith-filled service to the parish and community.