The Episcopal saint whose journey for social justice took many forms, from sit-ins to priesthood

Pauli Murray, the first Black woman to be ordained by the Episcopal Church, was an advocate for women’s rights and racial justice.

By: Sarah Azaransky, Union Theological Seminary, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: June 14, 2026

Words: 1,086

Last Updated: 1 month, 1 week ago

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By Sarah Azaransky, Union Theological Seminary

July 1 is the annual feast day for Episcopal saint Pauli Murray, the first Black woman to be ordained by the denomination: an affirmation of her many contributions not only to the church, but to social justice in the United States.

Saints exemplify “what it means to follow in the footsteps of Jesus and make a difference in the world, and Pauli Murray is one of those people,” …

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