SSJ AL Mission Part of Civil Rights Stop

Sisters Kathy Navarra and Pat Flass of the SSJ Alabama Mission recently hosted a group of Nazareth University students as part of the school’s 2024 Civil Rights Journey. From January 5—13 the students traveled to Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee, meeting with activists, historians, and scholars “to gain a deeper understanding of segregation and the ramifications of racism.” The group met with our Sisters for two days, learning about the history of the SSJ mission work in Alabama. Specifically, they learned about the significant role the Sisters played in helping treat Black protestors at Good Samaritan Hospital after they were injured during the historic march from Selma to Montgomery in 1965. At the time, the hospital was the only one in the area that would care for African Americans.

The students also had some hands-on experience while working at the Bosco Nutrition Center, a food center where Sisters Kathy and Pat serve. The group helped fix breakfast bags for three elementary schools in Selma.

“We had a great time visiting with Nazareth students and faculty,” says Sister Kathy. “They were such a diverse group and got along so well. A great example of the wonderful things Nazareth University is doing.”

Sisters Pat Flass (back left) and Kathy Navarra (front right) with students and faculty from Nazareth University