Knights of Peter Claver
1 members Public
The largest historically African American Catholic fraternal organization.
History
The Knights of Peter Claver was founded in 1909 in Mobile, Alabama, by four Josephite priests and three laymen, at a time when African American Catholics were excluded from other fraternal organizations. The order took as its patron St. Peter Claver, the Jesuit who ministered to enslaved Africans.
The organization grew to include the Ladies Auxiliary and junior divisions, providing fellowship, charitable works, and a voice for African American Catholics while remaining loyal to the Church.
Today the Knights of Peter Claver is the largest predominantly African American Catholic lay organization in the United States, active in parishes across the country.
What they do
- Catholic fraternal fellowship and faith formation
- Charitable and community service
- Youth divisions and the Ladies Auxiliary
- Promotion of social justice and Catholic education
How to get involved
Practical Catholics can join a local council or court. Find a unit and membership information through the official website or your parish.
Official links
Knights of Peter Claver chapters
Local chapters from our directory.
