Redemptorist Lay Associate Earns Master’s Degree

September 16, 2022

by Kristine Stremel

Joyce Jones, a Redemptorist Associate in St. Louis, recently received a Master of Theology (Th.M.) degree from Xavier University of Louisiana’s Institute for Black Catholic Studies (IBCS).

Currently serving as director of the Archdiocese of St. Louis’ Office of Racial Harmony, Joyce is a former nurse who responded to the call to study Sacred Scripture by earning her bachelor’s in biblical studies and Christian ministry. Joyce works locally with several service organizations and serves on various committees of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

A wife, mother, and grandmother, Joyce is a member of St. Alphonsus “Rock” Church. She was quick to give our own Fr. Maurice Nutt credit for helping her to achieve this degree. “He took time out of his busy schedule to come to St. Louis and discuss with me the merits of attending IBCS. He has been a constant source of encouragement and I appreciate and will be forever grateful for his leadership and support,” she said.

“IBCS introduced me to Black theologians from around the country who brought with them a depth of knowledge regarding the Church and Black Catholics that I can without a doubt say is not being taught anywhere else in the United States,” she added. “IBCS made me aware of the trials and tribulations that Black Catholics have endured in this country, and because of IBCS, I will not hesitate to lift the name of XULA to all potential college students.”

IBCS is an interdisciplinary and holistic pastoral theology program that forms lay women and men, religious, and clergy for more culturally competent, effective ministry in the 21st century. As a program of Xavier University, the Institute affirms the University’s purpose of promoting a more just and humane society and its mission of preparing students to assume roles of leadership and service in society. For more information, contact the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at 504.520.7691 or visit [email protected].

North American Conference of Redemptorists

Washington, DC

Redemptorist Lay Associate Earns Master’s Degree