Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

A historically Black Catholic fraternal organization is experiencing growth, with its members drawing strength from the Eucharist to live out the Gospel message, according to its top leader.

The Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary held their annual senior national conclave and convention from July 19-24 in Oklahoma City. The gathering united members of all ages to discern the coming year’s charitable and spiritual initiatives for the organization.

Founded in 1909 by four priests of the St. Joseph’s Society of the Sacred Heart, the Knights and Ladies Auxiliary aim to further the legacy of St. Peter Claver. The Jesuit priest ministered to enslaved people from Africa in Cartagena, Colombia, during the 17th century, providing food, medical aid, and spiritual instruction.

Through their charitable arm, the St. Peter Claver Foundation, the Knights and Ladies Auxiliary award donations to Catholic seminaries and outreaches and scholarships to students.

Supreme Knight and CEO Christopher Pichon told OSV News that this year's gathering — now in its 108th year — would center on a daily celebration of Mass.

“We celebrate the Eucharist every day, (with) a big opening Mass on Sunday, and … Masses every morning on the other days,” said Pichon. “It’s about sharing and participating in the Eucharist.”

Pichon emphasized focusing on "the true meaning of the Eucharist" with regard to the upcoming National Eucharistic Congress.

Pichon's vision for the Knights and Ladies Auxiliary is encapsulated by "RISE," an acronym representing reimagining post-COVID policies ("R"), inclusivity across age groups ("I"), emphasizing spiritual works of mercy ("S"), and promoting organizational achievements ("E").

As part of this strategy, Pichon noted efforts toward evangelism: “(We’re) trying to bring past members as well as prospective members back into the fold of Catholicism.”

Currently, there are over 15,000 members, including more than 2,000 junior members aged 7 to 18. The organization has seen significant growth in New York State and has established units at several colleges such as Xavier University of Louisiana, Clark Atlanta University, and Southern University.

Several collegiate members will address racism at a public forum during the upcoming convention. This issue is one of five pillars within the organization's social justice focus alongside human trafficking, domestic violence prevention, upholding Black lives' dignity, and seeking criminal justice reform.

“We’re constantly educating our members on social justice issues,” said Pichon. “(We are) really making an impact and transforming our communities.”