Knights of Peter Claver

Overview

The Knights of Peter Claver is an international Catholic fraternal service organization, recognized as the largest and oldest Black Catholic lay-led organization in existence. Founded on November 7, 1909, by the Josephites and parishioners from the Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Mobile, Alabama, the organization is named after St. Peter Claver, a Jesuit priest who ministered to African slaves in Cartagena, Colombia, during the 17th century.

Organization Structure

The Knights of Peter Claver operates through councils (men) and courts (women), with additional divisions including the Junior Knights and Junior Daughters for youths between the ages of 7 and 18. The organization also features the Fourth Degree Knights, known as "Sir Knights," and the Ladies of Grace, known as "Gracious Ladies," for members who have achieved this higher level within the Order. The Ladies Auxiliary was officially recognized as a part of the Order in 1926, while the Junior Knights were established in 1917 and the Junior Daughters in 1930.

Activities and Purposes

The Knights of Peter Claver engages in a variety of community and church service projects, aimed at promoting faith, hope, and love through friendship, unity, and Christian charity. The organization supports local pastors, parishes, and bishops, and encourages civic pride, social interaction, and intellectual stimulation among its members. Additionally, the Knights provide scholarships and focus on developing the character of youth.

Charitable Initiatives

The Knights of Peter Claver is heavily involved in charitable activities, supporting organizations such as the United Negro College Fund, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation, and Xavier University of Louisiana. The organization also participates in disaster relief efforts and promotes social justice causes.

Global Reach

As of 2019, the Knights of Peter Claver had over 700 subordinate units across the United States and South America. The organization is a member of the International Alliance of Catholic Knights, reflecting its global involvement in Catholic fraternal service.

St. Peter Claver Foundation

The St. Peter Claver Foundation (SPCF) serves as the charitable arm of the Knights, focusing on programs that build strong communities in underserved areas. Initiatives include the Youth Adventure Program, designed to uplift at-risk youth through service learning experiences, and the Soaring High tutorial program, which provides academic support to students.

Legacy

With a legacy spanning over a century, the Knights of Peter Claver continues to be a cornerstone of community service and Catholic involvement for Black Catholics worldwide, embodying the principles of faith, hope, and love in its mission to serve humanity.