Missionaries of the Precious Blood Father Denny Kinderman was the main presider as the Black Catholic Deacons of Chicago, in partnership with priests, deacons and clergy of the Archdiocese of Chicago, are hosted their 15th annual Sunrise Mass for Nonviolence and Peace on Aug. 23, 2025. Worshipers gathered at the lake to pray for peace, the healing of families, schools, communities and the safety of children. The Mass featured music from the St. Katharine Drexel Parish and Our Lady of Africa Parish choirs, youth drummers, and intentions offered for peace in our communities. Since 2010, the Black Catholic Deacons of Chicago ministry has hosted the annual sunrise services to pray for the protection of our children, and for non-violence in our hearts, schools, families and streets. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Deacon Willam Pouncy from St. Simon Cyrene Parish carries the flag of the Office of Black Deacons during the opening procession. To his left is Deacon Richard Hudzik. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Worshippers pray during Mass. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Deacon Greg Shumpert from St. Simon of Cyrene Parish, Missionaries of the Precious Blood Father Denny Kinderman and Deacon Leroy Gill bow at the altar. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Drummers from St. Ethelreda School provide music during Mass. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Denise Spells, far right, joined drummers from her school St. Ethelreda as they provide music during Mass. Spells had been at the school 25 years. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Deacon LeRoy Gill delivers the homily during Mass. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Worshippers pray during Mass. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Missionaries of the Precious Blood Father Denny Kinderman prays during the eucharistic prayer during Mass. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Worshippers share the sign of peace during Mass. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Kinderman blesses a participant during Communion. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
Kinderman gives the final blessing as Mass ends. (Karen Callaway/Chicago Catholic)
