Unity Explosion began as a gathering in 1989 in Dallas, Texas, with the vision to liturgically recognize, embrace, and share the gifts that American Catholics of African descent bring to the universal church.  The mission of the conference has grown to provide an experience that addresses the expressed leadership, ministerial, catechetical, liturgical, and evangelization needs of families, particularly those of African descent. 

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The pre-conference event to Unity Explosion is the Roderick J. Bell Institute for African American Sacred Music.  This 15-hour Institute provides musicians, ministers of music, and those interested in music as a ministry with a forum for professional and spiritual growth, new music presentations, as well as networking opportunities. 

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The Unity Explosion Conference is sponsored by Region X of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.