The Knights of , Inc.

Volume 93 • Winter Issue 2009-10 • www.kofpc.org

inside this issue Officer Messages • History of Claverism • District News • Junior Division introduction 2 include aphoto.Whentakingphotographsforthemagazine, please makesure yourcameraissetonthehighestresolution Word document andphotosasjpgfiles.Pleasedonotsubmit Claverite “TRUST INGOD”isourpassword Please [email protected],and setting possible.Photographsshouldbe300dpiorhigher at full size for them to print well. Please provide stories in a must be submitted by: April 10 for summer issue and The NationalCouncilKnightsofPeterClaver All items intended for publication in The Claverite and NationalCourtKnightsofPeterClaver, Headquarters inNewOrleans, Mobile, , the birthplace ofClaverism. thebirthplace Mobile, Alabama, A Catholic fraternal magazinepublishedby: A Catholicfraternal Founded inMobile,Alabama,1909 “ONWARD” isourwarcry Most Pure Heart of Mary CatholicChurch in ofMary Most Pure Heart The MostReverend GregoryM.Aymond The KnightsOfPeterClaver any handwrittenmaterialorPDFfiles. James KelleyTerry, NationalSecretary Gene A.Phillips,Sr., Supreme Knight Geralyn C.Shelvin,Supreme Lady Athanase Jones,PublisherLiaison September 10 for winter issue. KPC P.R. Group –Contributors The Archbishop ofNewOrleans Ladies Auxiliary On thecover Approbation

Correction fromlastissue:PhotobyPaul Duhe Mobile Council #1, established Nov. 7, 1909. See highlights from the 2009 National Convention, 12 38 25 20 page 16

3 in this issue 22 Messages the from Supreme Navigators 10 anniversary of the pious passage of St. Jean-Marie Jean-Marie St. of passage pious the of anniversary th Message from Perry Remembering William Remembering Jr. Keyes, Charles news District news Division Junior Directors of Board

“To all the faithful, truly truly faithful, the all “To 22 24 35 42 Vianney, on the first Thursday of each month, or on some other other some on or month, each of Thursday first faithful.” the the on all of Vianney, benefit the for the by determined days attend devoutly who repentant, Mass the of Sacrifice divine the the Christ Jesus to offer and Priest Eternal and Supreme done work good a and prayers the of priests the for day that on sanctify may He that Church, according have them they mold and provided them granted is in Indulgence Plenary prayers a said heart, and His to confession sacramental by days the sins on their for Pontiff, atoned Supreme the of day the intention on the with Priest, the of accordance Year the of closing and opening the of 150 the of

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Message the from Supreme Lady

6 page 16 page o priests, truly repentant, who on any on who repentant, truly priests, o morningday devoutly recite Lauds the Blessed Sac- before or Vespers rament, exposed for public worship

Message the from Supreme Knight

Past Leaders of the Noble Order Noble the of Leaders Past 2009 Convention highlights Convention 2009 Genesis of the Peter of Knights the of Genesis winners Award 2009 International Alliance of Catholic Knights Catholic of Alliance International

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11 20 16 12 15

Year for Priests for Priests Year 2009-2010

4 or reposed in the tabernacle,or reposed and who, after the them- offer example of St. Jean-Marie Vianney, spirit to the cele- and generous selves with ready bration of the sacraments, especially confession, granted, which a Plenary Indulgence is mercifully by way they can also apply to deceased brethren in provisions the with accordance in if suffrage, of sacramental confession and they approach force to the Communion, and if they pray according Pontiff. intentions of the Supreme

the attendees. the Nagin addressing addressing Nagin Mayor C. Ray Ray C. Mayor Orleans New “ See highlights from the 2009 National Convention, Convention, National 2009 the from highlights See 4 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org Knights of Peter Claver

Message from the Supreme Knight

Gene A. Phillips, Sr., 15th Supreme Knight

Fraternal greetings: ance of Catholic Knights (IACK) Biennial Meeting. There were Supreme Knights, Delegates, Observers and wives in atten- uring the week of August 2-6, 2009, dance from at least 12 countries. I appreciate all Clavers who in New Orleans, we completed the made them feel welcome and, especially, for supporting their Opening Mass on August 1, 2009. I would like to thank the 94th National Convention for the 4th Degree Knights, 3rd Degree Knights, Knights’ Board of D Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. The Directors, the Ladies of Grace, members of the Ladies Auxiliary convention was filled with a lot of high energy, and visitors who turned out to celebrate Mass with our guests. memorable moments and a celebration of our Thank you also to Bishop Joseph Perry and the Liturgical centennial anniversary as the Knights of Peter Committee for preparing such a beautiful celebration. Due to Claver, Inc. I know with the guidance of St. Peter the National Convention being at the same time as the IACK Meeting, Past Supreme Knight Chester Jones represented me Claver looking over us, we all can say we had en- for most of the IACK functions. For that, I will be forever joyable moments during the National Convention. grateful. I would like to commend Gulf Coast District Deputy Athanase Jones, Brother Grant Jones, National Secretary Kelley The highlight of the National Convention was the Centennial Terry, the New Orleans Hosting Committee and the National Mass held at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center, with Office staff for their assistance in helping with various aspects approximately 4,500 people in attendance. I would like to thank of the IACK meeting. Bishop Joseph Perry and those working with him for producing Our Junior Division held a successful 18th Biennial Junior supreme knight supreme a wonderful Mass for all those in attendance. Words cannot de- National Convention from July 9-12, 2009 in Houston. scribe the atmosphere in theconvention center during the Mass They elected new officers and conducted their business in a celebration. very professional manner. Some of the Planning for such a celebration of this highlights of the convention were an magnitude doesn’t happen in a week or Words cannot describe entertaining talent show, educational overnight. Interim Administrator Paul the atmosphere in the competitions, informative workshops, C. Condoll, National Secretary Kelley convention center during vocation fair and a presentation by the Terry, Bishop Joseph Perry, the National the Mass celebration. Buffalo Soldiers. I commend Director Office staff and the New Orleans Host- ,, General Tillmon King and National Ju- ing Committee began working on the nior Daughter Counselor Diane Asberry,

message from the the from message National Convention last year. We witnessed the fruits of Commanders, Counselors, chaperones, Juniors, Claver mem- their endeavors unfolding before our eyes over‘‘ the course bers, and the National Office staff who put on a successful of the convention. The Masses, White Linen Party, Supreme Junior National Convention. Knight/Supreme Lady Gala, Convention Banquet and Con- On Sunday, November 7, 1909, in Mobile, Alabama, at vention Ball provided all of us some much-needed relaxation Most Pure Heart of Mary , 40 men were after a couple of days of intense meetings and discussions. If initiated into the Knights of Peter Claver, thus beginning the you know any of the individuals who helped to plan the long journey of Claverism. Knight Gilbert Faustina became convention, please send them a note of thanks. This was truly the first Grand Knight of Council #1. He also became the first a total team effort. Supreme Knight of the Knights of Peter Claver. On July 12, During the same time as our National Convention, the 1911, the Knights of Peter Claver was incorporated under the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. hosted the International Alli- hand and seal of Probate Judge Price Williams, Jr., of Mo- The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 5 bile County, Alabama. On November 7, 2009, the Knights of Charitable contributions Knights of Peter Claver Peter Claver, Inc. celebrated its 100th Anniversary. Just as our During the convention, various committees motioned to disburse seven founders had the foresight and determination to build a total of more than $88,000 in support of the following projects: a strong foundation, we, as Clavers, will continue their work • Soaring High Tutorial Program by remaining committed to the Catholic Church, our Noble • United Negro College Fund Organization, and the community. • Human Development It is only fitting that a few words be said about our organization’s • Claver Outreach Fund charter. July 12, 1911, our founders had the foresight to file for • Sickle Cell Fund a charter to incorporate and protect our organization (Knights of • Earl Harvey Kidney Disease Fund Peter Claver). This is a legal instrument that sets forth the name • Educational Scholarship Fund and objectives of our organization. Our charter legally established Service programs and projects also are done by our local the name of our order as the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. units. This year, we succeeded in performing more than 1 million hours of service. I would like to congratulate everyone Expansion report who donated their time to our organization. I urge each member to continue reaching out and to invite your family, friends and associates to join the Knights of Peter Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. financial information

Claver, Inc. In 1909, our membership was only 40 men. Look message from the where we are now. The best recruiters are you, the members. Trust & Wealth Management as of August 31, 2009 Please note the membership count is as of September 2009. Taxable Fixed Income $ 1,738,843.12 57% First quarter census summary 2009 Cash and Equivalents $ 799,139.86 26% Domestic Equity $ 311,601.20 10% Active Inactive Junior Junior Preferred Stock $ 215,927.50 7% Districts Units Units Knights Ladies Knights Daughters Total Assets Value $ 3,065,511.68 100% Central 68 19 367 595 46 9 Cash Balance of Accounts as of August 31, 2009 Gulf Coast 121 24 711 1,334 147 213 Liberty Convention...... $356,249.07 Louisiana 247 44 2,118 3,299 316 551 supreme knight Whitney General Reserve...... $163,002.72 Northern 214 56 886 2,000 96 263 Liberty Scholarship...... $62,781.00 Texas 110 11 1,032 1,722 246 331 Liberty CD...... $11,852.00 Western 75 19 352 926 17 83 Whitney Trust...... $107,438.27 Total 835 173 5,466 9,876 868 1,520 Total Cash Balance...... $701,323.06 Total Membership...... 17,903 Trust & Wealth Management...... $3, 065,511.68 Total Active Units...... 835 Total Cash Balance...... $701,323.06 Total Inactive Units...... 173 Total All Accounts...... $3,766,834.74

Supreme Knight activities

I would like to thank everyone who invited me to their local or district/state functions. Although I was unable to attend some of the functions, I truly appreciate your invitations. I have listed activities I attended since my last report below: Date Activity Place May 1, 2009...... Louisiana Senior State Conference...... Lafayette, Louisiana May 2-3, 2009...... Texas Senior State Conference...... Houston May 4, 2009...... St Monica St. Vincent de Paul ...... Houston May 16, 2009...... Executive Committee Meeting...... New Orleans May 23, 2009...... Patrician Jones Annual Scholarship Luncheon ...... Houston June 7, 2009...... Sir Knight Rev. Rawlin B. Enette, SSJ Retirement Mass...... Houston June 11, 2009...... Taping of Crossroad Interview Channel 13 ABC...... Houston June 15, 2009...... National Black Catholic Congress Meeting...... San Antonio July, 9-12, 2009...... 18th Biennial Junior National Convention...... Houston July 31-August 6, 2009...... 94th Senior Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. National Convention...... New Orleans August 1-7, 2009...... International Alliance of Catholic Knights...... New Orleans August 22, 2009...... Blue and Gold Ball Ladies of Grace Chapter #3...... Lafayette, Louisiana September 6, 2009...... St. Peter Claver Day Celebration...... Houston September 13, 2009...... St. Peter Claver Day Celebration...... Port Arthur, Texas

(cont. on page 6) message from the supreme knight 6 Web site atwww.kofpc.org. 2010 NationalConventioninSt.Louis,Missouri.Visit our God’s blessingandlookforwardatthe toseeingeveryone continue tosaytheSt.PeterClaverPrayer. Iwisheveryone by remaining positiveandrespectful ofeachother. Please District isgatheringforourCentennialAnniversary. scrapbooks, videos,etc.,yourlocalCouncil/CourtandState/ 7, 2009andIreally lookforward toallthegreat pictures, zation. Please remember thatFoundersDay isNovember re-energize inorder thisgreat tocontinueserve organi - vention hastakenalittletimeforrest andrelaxation to year. this functions major three coordinating in performed they work diligent the and dedication their for staff Office National the to go also thanks Many prayers. your in him keep to remember please Convention; National Senior the before just suffered stroke a from recovering is who Condoll, C. Paul istrator ing us,wehavenochoicebuttogointherightdirection. is headingintherightdirection. With St.PeterClaverguid- best jobsanyonecanhave. TheKnightsofPeterClaver, Inc. of thanks,telephonecallsande-mailsmakethisonethe ment. All ofthepositivereinforcements, greetings, words many challenges,butalsomuchenjoymentandexcite by theendofyear. Thepastthree yearshaveprovided and anewaccountant.We hopetohavethepositionsfilled Inc. will be assured another 100 years of existence. dedication and determination, the Knights of Peter Claver, lunch at the Ronald McDonald House. With the help of their donated to the Covenant House in New Orleans and cooked instance, during the most recent National Convention, they Order. They perform national, state and local projects. For Clavers donating their time and talents to serving our Noble evangelization programs inyourarea anddiocese. to vocationprograms, Catholiceducationprograms, and we performasClavers.Pleasecontinuetogiveyoursupport clergy andtheCatholicChurch isawitnesstotheservice Catholic communityandthecontinuoussupportofour Other items states where we are not insured. Please keep us in your prayers.trying to obtain certificates of authority for insurance for NAICthe Uniform Certificate of Authority Application process in insurance aspects of the order. We are working on using the Insurance report Supreme Knight Gene A.Phillips, Sr. Yours inClaverism, Together, wecancontinuethesuccess ofourorganization who attendedthe94thNationalCon - I hopeeveryone Admin Interim to out go appreciation of thanks Many We havebegunoursearch foranewexecutivedirector The Emerging Leaders are a fantastic and energetic group of Please bemindfulthatourparishesare theheartof All requirements are being met or addressed regarding the

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at theHiltonRiversideHotelinNewOrleans. attendance atthe94thNationalConventionheld the foundation of the National Office. He was hired in 1961 1961 in hired was He Office. National the of foundation the 2008-2009. for Administrator Interim as served graciously who Condoll, C. Paul Knight Supreme Past We acknowledge 2006-2008. Henderson, Bronco H. and 2004-2005; Jones, Athanase W.Jr., 1992-2004; Keyes, Young Jr., 1964-1972; L. Charles Wallace 1962-1964; Dusuau, H. Huntington 1960-1962; Lee, R. Thomas Director: Secretary/Executive Executive as serve to individuals dedicated and committed leadership, our to addition in have, to fortunate were we times these During Movement. Rights Civil the and racism conflicts, military several Depression, Great the include: challenges the of few A years. 100 for viable remain organization our have to endure and face to had leadership past and founders Claver andourdeceasedmembers. and remembrance ofourFounders, ourpatron ,St.Peter cannot beatallevents.Bestwishesforsuccessfulcelebrations invitations formetoattendyouractivities,butunfortunatelyI of November6-8,2009.Ithankthoseyouwhoextended Our NobleOrder withactivitiesandeventsontheweekend celebration. anniversary 100th a for appropriate were activities and events all throughout environment and atmosphere The celebration. centennial memorable most a creating for Committee Central Orleans New the of Sisters and Brothers Claver our of all Wethank also Knight. Supreme Past Condoll, C. Paul Brother of illness the to due Coordinator Convention 2009 the as serving for Division, Knights the of Secretary Terry, Kelley James National Brother to thanks Special G Message from the from Message For more than 40 years, Brother W. Charles Keyes was W. was Brother Keyes years, Charles 40 than more For our challenges many the on reflect not do we Often, Many unitsare continuedtocelebratetheCentennialof GeralynC.Shelvin,Supreme Lady Knights of Peter Claver of themembershipwhowere in express mysincere thankstoall It ismydistinctpleasure to reetings toourClaverFamily: Ladies Auxiliary Supreme Lady The Claverite|WinterIssue2009-10 |www.kofpc.org 7 message from the supreme lady efforts in service to the Church, Church, the to service in efforts Noble Our and communities, their the during Orleans New In Order. discussed Ladies the convention, Ladies the to changes approved and By-Laws. and Charter Division’s on serving to forward look We the with Committee Joint the they as 2010 in Division Knights the of review/update the complete

,, Congratulations again to our 2009 Gold and Silver Medalists, Medalists, Silver and Gold 2009 our to again Congratulations As we reach the end of 2009, we should prepare ourselves Happy Centennial Anniversary to the Knights Division and Always, Yours Geralyn C. Shelvin Lady Supreme B. Henderson, 1988-1994; Leodia Gooch, 1994-2000; and Mary L. Briers, 2000-2006. membership, was truly humbled I, along with the entire to have in attendance at the 94th National and honored still among us: Ladies who are Convention all Past Supreme Gooch, and Briers. Ladies Lee, Morris, Broussard, Supreme by their continued serviceand all continue to be inspired We the and, especially, commitment to the Knights of Peter Claver Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary. Year, the of Counselor Year, the of Court Year, the of Family their for recognized others all and Year the of Lady Grand Claver. Peter of Knights the for By-Laws and Constitution to receive the gift of Jesus Christ by being receptive to his guidance and intervention. There truly is nothing the Knights of Peter Claver cannot achieve as long as we affirm, respect, and encourage each other to continue to be of service to those most in need following the example of St. Peter Claver. best wishes to all Divisions of the Knights of Peter Claver as we celebrate and remember the past, with eagerness for a brighter future.

| www.kofpc.org 2009-10 Issue | Winter Claverite The Best wishes for successful Best wishes for successful remembrance and celebrations saint, of our Founders, our patron and our St. Peter Claver, deceased members. ‘‘ Supreme Lady Supreme

We alsoWe would not have thrived The Ladies Division has had the following illustrious women

and served in the positions of Cashier/Clerk, Bookkeeper, Executive Secretary and Executive Director until his death. In 1962, Brother Keyes, along withTureaud, the late A.P. National Secretary of the Knights Division, secured the old French Hospital on Orleans Avenue as our first National Headquarters. Under the administration of Supreme Knight Ernest Granger and Supreme Lee, Lady the Florence W. current National Office site was constructed and dedicated. All Clavers during the centennial celebrations throughout this year should reflect and remember the dedication, commitment and passion of Brother Keyes for the Knights of Peter thank Claver. We Lady Brenda Keyes, Lady Audrey Shaw and the entire Keyes Family for sharing him with us for so many years. for 100 years without faith and the efforts of our religious leaders who continue to advise our Noble Order on all matters pertaining to faith and morals. Throughout our history, the planning of all liturgies and religious services for the National Conventions has been under the direction of the Office of National Chaplain. The following members of the clergy have been of service as our National Chaplain: Bishop 1966-1970;Harold Perry, Rev. John LaBauve, 1971-1986; Bishop Joseph Francis, 1986- 1992; Bishop Curtis 1992-1998; Guillory, Bishop George V. 1998-2002;Murray, Bishop Dominic Carmon, 2002-2004; and Bishop Joseph 2004 N. toPerry, the present. applaud We Bishop Perry for his vision and for succeeding in making the Centennial Mass and all Masses at the 2009 National Convention both spirit-filled and memorable. He has definitely brought KPC to another level. to serve Lady: M.L. Lunnon, 1926- in the Office of Supreme 1928-1952; E.B. Jones, 1952-1958; Inez 1928; A.R. Aubry, 1964-1970; Lombard, Bowman, 1958-1964; Thelma P. Y. Morris, Lee, 1970-1976; Mother Elise LeNoir W. Florence Dorothy 1982–1988; 1976-1982; Consuella M. Broussard, Ladies Auxiliary Ladies Knights of Peter Claver Claver Peter of Knights Geralyn C. Shelvin, Supreme Lady Supreme Geralyn C. Shelvin, Message from the 8 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org Message from the National Chaplain

Most Reverend Joseph N. Perry, National Chaplain, Knights of Peter Claver

unior courtesies traditional discipline, guidance and correction that adults were accustomed to offer. In certain respects, this crisis appears to linger in the fiber of American consciousness. At the 18th biannual convention of our Junior No self-respecting parent operates in the home while J Daughters and Junior Knights in Houston, their children ignore them. Certain commonly accepted Texas, July 2009, I was impressed by the gradual courtesies and acknowledgements are standard for a well- entrance of the young officers to the luncheon room where ordered household, as well as for the proper advancement of I was gathered with several major officers of the Knights of children and youth. We understand that our children cannot Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary, including Commanders arrive at, nor can they function in, an adult world being and Counselors. The Junior officers approached the Senior disrespectful or by ignoring basic etiquette at home and officers and warmly greeted each of us. At first thought, one outside the home. We train our children to say “thank you” might expect these gifted youth to be so attentive. They may when adults acknowledge them, praise them or gift them.

Bishop Perry Bishop well have been coached to do this – and that is not so bad. Not to be grateful with use of words is to set oneself on the The course of adolescence is full of coaching and reminders of path of selfishness and narcissism, which results in tragedies one sort or another. Their greeting reminded us how special emerging within our relationships. our Juniors are who will one day soon take their place in our Senior Divisions. Nevertheless, I was immediately made aware Church etiquette how rare such proper and polite behavior is these days among When a priest entered the room in our Catholic elementary our young. and secondary schools, we were trained to immediately cease what we were doing, rise from our seats and pronounce in

message from from message The situation unison: “Good Morning” or “Good Afternoon Father!” Or, In many African cultures, children are raised with certain “Praise be Jesus Christ!” to which the priest, brother or nun disciplines involving social courtesies; violating these would reply, “Now and forever, amen!” With a greatly reduced courtesies is simply not tolerated. Such a violation gives the priestly and religious work force in many of our schools, we impression that a young person disrespects his or her elders. have fallen out of practice with these Catholic courtesies. Failure to perform certain acknowledgements of adults, Several times during the Mass and other prayerful settings, family elders and other adults with authority or influence is the priest greets us with, “The Lord be with you!” And rubric considered an unconscionable insult, for which a youth can be instructs us to respond collectively to this powerful, grace- reprimanded or punished. anointed greeting with, “And with your spirit!” It would be In a less formal culture such as the American terrain – strange not to return this sacred response in the same way that which popularizes dress-down habits, celebrates coarse it would be a violation of priestly worshipful etiquette not to language, where the informal is the rule-of-thumb, where offer the greeting to the worshiping assembly. some people take delight in shocking others with violations Catholic worship involves certain courtesies we take for of normal signs of respect, and where a couple generations of granted. We stand for the entrance of the presiding priest parentage have attempted to be friends with their offspring and other clergy and ministers when the hour strikes for the rather than formators – acknowledgements extended to the commencement of worship. We sit to hear the readings and older generations are not always so evident in the rearing of lessons from Scripture. We stand to give honor and pride of youth. Here and there, we find our youth lacking in common place to the words of Jesus proclaimed in the Gospels. We courtesies. kneel during those parts of the Mass where it is obvious bread Sociologists and theologians cite a crisis of authority and wine has been changed into the body and blood of the pervasive in American culture since the social and moral Lord. Adoration becomes the posture until the sacred species revolution charted from the 1960s, where youth shirked has been consumed by all and the remaining Eucharist has The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 9 been transferred to the tabernacle. feeling unsure or awkward. It is necessary here to find room It strikes me as odd to see people leaving church at the for right instruction for we have stated so often that “children conclusion of Mass who seldom, if ever, greet the priest who should be seen and not heard!” And we have raised them to represents Christ in the Christian community. Children and be wary of strangers. Nonetheless, adults within or outside youth we are directing should be trained to extend common of our association always are inspired by the poise of young courtesies to our church elders. Ignoring these particulars people when they know how to acknowledge their parents or usually means similar commonly accepted notions of respect grandparents or other adults. are not observed in the home. Teens are naturally shy in adult surroundings. Teens have a world of their own and often feel self-conscious, even Etiquette Claver- intimidated by adults, and feel they’re being watched or We have the custom in Claver gatherings to immediately measured. Added to this, teens are not comfortable with cease the business at hand to greet our Supreme Knight and themselves in how they look and they have a range of different Supreme Lady and chaplains when they enter our working emotions that surface in different settings. For this reason chambers. This is an appropriate corporate acknowledgment of influential adults are quick to admonish the young to get into leadership in a Christian community. the habit of appropriate behavior and correct responses to set There are etiquettes asked for outside of chambers that may them on their way to maturity. need attention, such as national officers and other positioned Visiting homes of parishioners, I find myself feeling a bit adults obviously in the company of our Juniors – but Juniors awkward when children and teenagers suddenly enter or leave failing to greet their leadership unless the home and fail to greet their father nudged to do so. The lack of courtesy is or kiss their mother or grandparent message from not usually malicious. It’s just that our Common greetings and or fail to acknowledge any other adult present. It betrays a lack of home youth are not trained to do so, or they courtesies carried out are not prompted to do so. training. It brings to light a youthful Youth have their own accepted by our youth are not meant for awkwardness that has not been patterns and customary greetings of the worship of our KPC hierar- properly attended to by adults. one another that change from one chy, but simply to prepare and Common greetings and courtesies generation to the next: high fives, a situate our young people as carried out by our youth are not knock together of the clinched fist, a respectful individuals who are meant for the worship of our KPC ‘‘ hierarchy, but simply to prepare and Bishop Perry quick embrace with a pat on the back. grateful persons and persons Girls extend a much more fervent hug. situate our young people as respectful Our KPC manuals indicate proper who acknowledge leadership individuals who are grateful persons titles of designation and greeting and giftedness and the and persons who acknowledge for our officers. It takes time for sacred in their lives. leadership and giftedness and the ,, sacred in their lives. our Juniors to become acquainted with KPC terminology and rubrics. We adults enjoy greeting our young Similarly, our Juniors should be modeled in greeting their people and take delight in knowing that they are well. Some priest or any priest as “Father”; their bishop or adults, in turn, might fail to initiate greetings to our youth, archbishop as “Your Excellency”; their cardinal as “Your sensing they could care less, especially when they look so bored. Eminence”; a woman religious as “Sister”; a deacon as We are already acquainted with those common courtesies “Deacon.” At other times, just a nod of the head is sufficient extended to girls and women by boys and men that never go when we don’t know what to say or are not sure who a out of style despite the equality between females and males person is in our midst. in our modern society – opening doors for girls and women, One tells a bishop from a priest typically by the “pectoral paying deference to our mothers, carrying heavy loads for them, cross” worn around the neck by all bishops. This is a chain or choosing the most affirming language in addressing females. cordon with a cross at its end, whether in view or tucked in These courtesies do a lot to raise up our dignity as a people. a pocket close to the heart. The name comes from the Latin There should be nothing artificial about carrying out these word pectore meaning “heart.” common courtesies. In so doing, we honor the dignity of each Different ethnic groups have different customs for greeting person – those ministered to and those ministering through their clergy. Our Catholic parents and grandparents were tasks assigned to them to serve us. In so far as we are observant accustomed to kiss the ring of the bishop in acknowledgement of common courtesy, we are doing much to nurture Christian of St. Peter and the apostles – the office the bishop bears. community among us while we take aim at counter elements Filipinos will take the ring-hand of the bishop and press it in our society that promote foul and coarse language, gestures to their forehead. People frequently ask a priest to bless their of disrespect, and any behavior that drags us down as a people. children, bless a cross or medal they are wearing around their In all this we remain proud of our Junior Daughters and neck or bless their home. Junior Knights and emerging leaders!

What to do? Most Reverend Joseph N. Perry Young people are famous for saying nothing, or staring while Auxiliary Bishop of 10 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org Messages from the Supreme Navigators

Sir Knight James A. Neal, Supreme Navigator

raternal greetings: Knights to help the 4th Degree provide leadership in the KPC, the church and the community. The Supreme General Assembly As we approach 2010, please remember the duties that all 4th Degree officers (local and national) were elected to carry F concluded its National Conclave at out – leadership, dedication and service to the order of the the National Convention of the Knights Knights of Peter Claver. messages of Peter Claver in New Orleans in July. The busi- Thanks to Most Worthy Supreme Knight Gene A. Phillips, ness of the Supreme General Assembly went Sr. and the National Office staff for their work and help with smoothly and we got a lot of business taken care issues of the Supreme General Assembly. of. I would like to thank my Supreme Officers for Finally, a special thanks to Bishop Joseph Perry for his spiri- tual leadership in helping the 4th Degree focus on its duties for their diligent work during the National Conclave. the Catholic Church. Resolutions and By-laws were approved to make the 4th Degree a stronger Division of the Knights Yours in Claverism, of Peter Claver.

I encourage all Assemblies across the United States to look James A. Neal in your area for those Knights who are worthy of becoming Sir Supreme Navigator supreme navigators’ navigators’ supreme

Audrey B. Woods, Supreme Navigator 4th Degree

reetings to the Ladies of Grace end. Whatever the case might be, let 4th Division: us choose the person who will take our Division a step further in its growth of morality, spirituality, intellect and I cannot stop thanking each of you culture. We need strong leaders. We are G Gracious Ladies for your wonderful standing on some strong shoulders, so cooperation. Even in a crisis, we have been able let us be sure that whoever we elect will to come to a consensus. This is a positive thing. provide the same strength for those who It shows how we can work together as Gracious will follow. Ladies to get the business of the 4th Degree Di- The holiday season can be a joyful one for some, and a lonely one for others. Please Ladies, send a vision accomplished. It would be remiss of me if card, make a call, pay a visit, do something to bring a cheer- I didn’t express my gratitude to my counterpart, ful moment to our shut-in members. You might even want to Sir Knight James Neal, and all of the Sir Knights adopt one. That would be a way to keep them abreast of what’s for treating the 4th Degree Ladies of Grace and going on in our Division. all the Gracious Ladies with such royalty. You are To both the Gracious Ladies and the Sir Knights of the meri- truly Sir Knights. torious 4th Degree Division of the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc., have a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.

It is fast approaching the time for each chapter to think of With love in my heart, its leadership. December is election month. Some of you may Audrey B. Woods be up for re-election; for others, your time has come to an Most Faithful Navigator The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 11

IACK Secretary General Niall Kennedy, author of the article, is seated third person from the left (blue shirt, gold ribbon). Mr. Kennedy is pictured with members of the IACK, including: Supreme Knight Gene A. Phillips, Sr; National Chaplain Bishop Joseph N. Perry; and Past Supreme Knight Chester Jones. International Alliance of Catholic Knights

Niall M. Kennedy, KCSG Secretary General Photos by Walter Powers

he Knights of Peter Claver hosted the 23rd meeting of the Interna- tional Council of the Alliance in New T Orleans from August 1-6. The International Alliance was founded in Glasgow, Scotland, on October 12, 1979, at a meeting of the leaders of kindred Orders, convened on the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee of the Knights of St. Columba in Great Britain. There are 15 affiliated Orders throughout I.A.C.K. the world and the International Council of the Alliance is comprised of the Supreme Knights of each Order. At the meetings, they discuss items of mutual interest and share information and experiences. Circumstances differ to Brother Paul Condoll, who did so much at the preparatory from country to country, but all the Orders participate in stage to ensure our meeting was successful. We pray for his areas such as evangelization, support for the church and its recovery to full health. leaders, formation of its members in the faith and a spirit of Finally, may I personally state that I was hugely impressed fraternity. Charity is looked upon and practiced in a sense of with the daily liturgies and, in particular, your Opening Mass. practical Christianity. The depth of and witness to our faith on the part of your mem- The 23rd meeting of the Alliance held in New Orleans bers was so evident at these liturgies that I know they take to was a great success and we owe this in no small measure heart the words of John Paul II addressing lay organizations to the extraordinary hospitality and fraternity shown to us by when he said that we “are the apostles of the third millennium.” our hosts, the Knights of Peter Claver. I wish to pay tribute to May the peace of the Risen Lord be with you all. Supreme Knight Gene Phillips, his wife Elsa, Chester Jones, and all the members of the Knights of Peter Claver who made us feel so welcome and worked tirelessly to ensure everything Niall M. Kennedy was perfect for our meeting. We also would like to pay tribute KCSG Secretary General 12 genesis introduction of Peter Claver … an Genesis of the Knights of PeterClaver, byRichardChastang. ish Governor of Mobile – 1,938 acres to Dr. John Chastang and ment, Simon Andry and Jeanne. other patriarchal family of Chastang’s Isabel,Bluff settleBarthelomew Laurent and Marie, and Boudanthe and Rebecca Marie, Regis Bernoudy and son of four other bi-racial couples: Henry Louison.Pierre As a matter of fact I am the great-grandborn c. 1739 in New Orleans, and his black wifegreat-grandson of Dr. John Chastang, a Frenchman I These two patriarchal families received land grants from the Span ThefollowingisanexcerptfromGenesisoftheKnights I’ll discuss that in just a moment. I am the name is the same name of our council but Alabama. It is no coincidence that my sur of Chastang Council No. 2 from Chastang, am Richard Chastang, third degree Knight - - - - 1. Archbishop Martin Spalding Priesthood. people of color and the subsequent formation of the Josephite their contribution toward the betterment of conditions for of our Josephite Fathers. ist as an organization if not for the foresight, courage andbe supportso bold as to suggest that we Knights and Ladies would notand ex spread the Roman Catholic faith to people of color, andMass dare – the I entire purpose of the Josephite Fathers is to proselytizeS.S.J., said in his homily at the Centennial Superior General Fr. Edward Chiffriller, Josephite Fathers. For as Josephite plete without a discussion of the Peter Claver would be com founding of the Knights of (Josephites) in May 1899. Joseph of the Sacred Heart arrival of the Society of St. the Apostle Church until the J. Leonard, served St. Peter Fr. James E. Coyle, and Paul priests Fr. Henry O’Grady, Fr. Friend, as well as Diocesan priests Fr. Victor Jouannet and time I wrote this book. 125-year anniversary in 2004, at whichand is still in operation to this day.St. Peter We the Apostlehad our Catholic Church,donated was about dedicated 1½ acres on 6 ofJuly land 1879 to Bishopland and Quinlan. another The grandchild new church, of SimonAndry Andry (granddaughter – Lawrence Andry of Simon – Andry),Regis donated Chastang about (grandson 4½ acres of of Dr. Johndecided Chastang) to have and a newhis churchwife, Louisa built at Chastang’s Bluff. Francois Bayou LaBatre, and Mt. Vernon until he died onSecour, 22 October as 1886.well as other non-Creole missions inincluding Dauphin MonIsland, Luis Island, Belle Fontaine, Fish River,J., served and Chastang’s Bon Bluff, and all other Catholicthe Creole visitations missions to this area. Fr. Johnabout Baptist 1854. InSerra, that S.year, the Society of JesusChalon (Jesuits) administered assumed the sacraments to this missionary1828–1859. chapel Diocesan until priests Fr. Paul’sand Fr. GabrielChapel c. 1833. Bishop Portierformal was ourreligious bishop frominstitution established at Chastang’s Bluff was St. munity several times a year. Catholic faith and consequently could only visit Spanishthis Creole priests com had a large territory in which theyVincente administered Gener, the and Auguste de Angelis – untilde Arazena,1826. Those Miguel Lamport, Mauel Garcia, Constantinetheir homesMcKenna, and Mass was provided by the Spanish priests – Jose estate at Fort St. Stephens Estate in 1805. 480 acres to Simon Andry. Dr. Chastang also had a small 480-acre Several religious leaders will be remembered in history for No history concerning the After Fr. Serra’s death Jesuit In 1876 Bishop (the second bishop of Mobile) When Mobile was established as a diocese in 1829, the first The first religious services for these Creole families took place in wrote letters to in which he requested the Roman Catho -

– As Bishop of Louisville, he Apostle Church St. Peter the - - - 13 genesis - - - - (cont. on page 14) The Commission for the Catholic Catholic the for Commission The The religious education of Charles Charles of education religious The become the first black Josephite priest. Josephite black first the become • and People Colored the among Missions Randolph Uncles was financed – he would would he – financed was Uncles Randolph this To 1884. in established was Indians • The Mill Hill publication St. Joseph’s Joseph’s St. publication Hill Mill The day the annual collection for Negro and and Negro for collection annual the day Advocate began to be distributed. be to began Advocate On 22 November 1885 St. Joseph’s Joseph’s St. 1885 November 22 On Indian Missions is still supported. still is Missions Indian • St. Augustine’s Church in Washington D.C. D.C. Washington in Church Augustine’s St.  acquired. was •

Church in Richmond, Virginia was dedicated. dedicated. was Virginia Richmond, in Church • It was partly financed by children throughout throughout children by financed partly was It established in Fells Point, Maryland. Point, Fells in established Oblate Sisters School for boys and girls was was girls and boys for School Sisters Oblate these United States who collected pennies to pay pay to pennies collected who States United these • construction costs. construction . A major seminary, St. Joseph’s Seminary, and a minor minor a and Seminary, Joseph’s St. seminary, major A • seminary, Epiphany Apostolic College, were established in in established were College, Apostolic Epiphany seminary, respectively. 1889, and 1888 1888. September 9 cated St. Peter Claver Church in Baltimore, Maryland was dedi was Maryland Baltimore, in Church Claver Peter St. • By the middle of the year 1892 the Mill Hill Priests were servicing servicing were Priests Hill Mill the 1892 year the of middle the By De John Manley, Dominic Frs. with along Slattery, Fr. 1893 In St. at arrived S.S.J., Laurent, St. Joseph Fr. 1899, May 16 On the throughout field missionary their expanded Josephites the As On 3 July 1904 Fr. Joseph Van Baast sang his first Solemn Mass as Mass Solemn first his sang Baast Van Joseph Fr. 1904 July 3 On 8 parishes and had a major and minor seminary. However, due to to due However, seminary. minor and major a had decided and parishes Vaughan 8 Bishop Priests, Hill Mill 16 the among divisions States. United these depart would Society the that Joseph’s St. formed Welbers Lambert and to Uncles, service Charles provide Ruyter, to devoted society a Heart, Sacred the of Society States. United the of color of persons Catholic replaced was He Bluff. Chastang’s at Church January Apostle In the 1899. Peter September 20 on S.S.J., Pastorelli, Fr. Louis that Fr. by requested Mobile) of bishop fifth (the persons Allen service Bishop to 1900 church a for land of parcel a Mass purchase first the Pastorelli 1900, February 11 On Mobile. first the northwest on in Mass color say of would He Mission. Anthony’s St. and at held second was the and Apostle the Peter St. at Fr. Sundays 1902, third February and In Mission. Anthony’s School St. at Industrial Sundays fourth Joseph’s St. of Rector as reassigned was Pastorelli Delaware. Clayton, in priests. Josephite of shortage a be to came there priests south, different American three 1904, June Thom and Fr. 1902 1) February Chastang: in Between Church Apostle the Peter St. serve would as McCormick, 2) Fr. Francis Tobin, and 3) Fr. Narcisse Denis. Narcisse Fr. 3) and Tobin, Francis Fr. 2) McCormick, as where Mobile of Diocese the to assigned was He Priest. headquartered Josephite a Mobile of north Missions the of Mis the charge and given Bluff was he Chastang’s at Church Apostle the Peter St. at sions south of Mobile headquartered at St. Church on on Church Lima of Rose St. at headquartered Mobile of the at south weeks sions second and first the scheduled He plat Island. Luis passenger Mon the from train a board would miles He 45 travel Missions. trip North round $1.58 for and Bluff of Rose Chastang’s St. at to form horseback by travel then Station, Delchamps to south - - - - - www.kofpc.org | www.kofpc.org 2009-10 Issue | Winter Claverite The of England established St. Joseph’s Joseph’s St. established England of – Entered Mill Hill Seminary in 1878 and and 1878 in Seminary Hill Mill Entered – To establish a missionary college in America to train the the train to America in college missionary a establish faith To Catholic Roman the proselytize to population black Africa. into and schools would be provided for for provided be would schools and be not would they that so blacks and assembly larger a in ignored attention. special receive from solicited funds and blacks dioceses wealthier financially the province. the in this to themselves dedicate to made Michael Bishop 1844 In assistance. – Pittsburgh of Bishop as – O’Connor the of Nativity the of Chapel the established 1860 In blacks. for specifically Jesuit Blessed a become to Pittsburgh of Bishop as Xavier resigned he Francis St. established successfully he 1863 In Calvert of priest. intersection the at located Baltimore, in Church color. of people for Streets, Pleasant and at St. . Xavier. Francis St. at in Baltimore. Home Elizabeth’s To labor among the blacks of the American south. American the of blacks the among labor To  Establishment of separate churches churches separate of Establishment for held be to were Missions were orders religious to Appeals

A new school building was obtained for the black children children black the for obtained was building school new A St. established Hill Mill of Sisters Franciscan the 1881 In • • • • • • • • Oblate Sisters School for girls was established in North In December 1871 four Mill Hill Priests arrived in Baltimore. Baltimore. in arrived Priests Hill Mill four 1871 December In In 1875 Mill Hill Priests acquired St. Peter’s Church in Charles in Church Peter’s St. acquired Priests Hill Mill 1875 In Fr. Herbert Vaughan Herbert Fr. lic Church take special care of those blacks who who blacks those of care special take Church lic conse was he After . from released were crated Archbishop of Baltimore in 1864 he he 1864 in Baltimore of Archbishop crated at 1869 in Finally, efforts. his continued Baltimore of Council Provincial Tenth the passed: were provisions of number a They were the answer to Archbishop Spalding’s prayers. Between Between prayers. Spalding’s Archbishop to Sa answer the the of were Chapel They initiated: were following the priests four these Society of the Sacred Heart for Foreign Missions at Mill Hill in in Hill Mill at Missions Foreign for Heart Sacred the of pa Society the to send to was desire His England. London, would Society The control. colonial British under colonies gan O’Connor, Michael Fr. Priests. Hill Mill the as Mill known become several send to him persuaded and Vaughan Fr. visited St. S.J., of core the given were they where Baltimore to Priests Hill envisioned Vaughan Fr. Jesuits. the by Church Xavier Francis Priests: Hill Mill his for goals two home children, black for school a Baltimore, South interracial in an Heart school, cred arts industrial an of start poor, aged the for boys. for school high projected a and brotherhood, ton, South Carolina, were assigned to St. Augustine’s Church in in Church Augustine’s St. to assigned were George Carolina, Prince South in ton, work mission began and Kentucky, Louisville, Maryland. County, in Baltimore in arrived He 1877. March 17 on acumen ordained was business astute his utilized he where 1877 Decem 13 On November Church. Xavier Francis St. at debt the reduce to ber 1878 he was appointed the American Provincial at age 27. 27. age at Provincial American the appointed was he 1878 ber leadership: his Under 2. 2. 3. Fr. John R. Slattery R. John Fr. 3. 14 genesis Chastang Council were elected – Albert Larsoza wasmeetings elected among Grand their men. On 3 October 1909 the officerstwo degrees. of the Fr. Van Baast, Fr. Rebesher,of Columbus. and Fr. He Kellyalso wroteorganized the Ritual of Initiationwrote for the the Constitution first based upon the ConstitutionColored of the Catholic Knights men would be formed. Fr. Conrad Rebesher Joseph’s Catechetical College in Montgomery,Fr. Alabama.Rebesher, and a black Josephite Fr. John Henry Dorsey of St. etc. among our people.” kind of beneficial society to counteract Knights myselfof Pythias, will goMasons, to see Sam Kelly at Scranton. WeSuperior want toJustin start McCarthy some – “next Wednesday Fr.On 26 Rebesher September and 1908 he wrote to the newly appointedof St. Josephite John for over a year he decided on anotherSuperior course ofDonovan. action. After receiving no response fromhe expressed the Knights the same desire and concern in a letterof Pythias to Josephite and other secret organizations. On 1among October his 1907men to prevent their joining the MasonsMcCarthy and Knights that he wanted to institute the Knights 3of April St. John1907, he wrote a letter to fellow Josephitethe conceptualpriest Justin founder of the Knights of Peter Claver.3 November Beginning 1912. His second major accomplishment Maywas 1908,as and St. Stephen-Martyr at Little ChastangSt. dedicatedPhilip the Deacon at Belle Fontaine dedicatedLuke’s 28 Chapel at 21 Mile Bluff dedicated 8 Julyments. 1906, First is the construction of new churches – St. and I wrote a book commemorating the milestone. St. Philips Church celebrated its 100-year anniversaryDeacon, which was dedicated 28 May 1908. Last yearbuild a church at Belle Fontaine named St. Philipsay the Mass at Belle Fontaine during the week. He wouldmonth. If there was not a fifth Sunday then he wouldMass at Belle Fontaine if there was a fifth Sundaythird that and fourth weeks of each month and providehis horse. He would attend these South Missions thethe Fowl River was flooded he would swim across Limaon on Mon Luis Island – where if the bridge across It was decided that a separate fraternal and beneficial society for Several meetings took place between Fr. Van Baast, Fr. Kelly, Fr. Van Baast is noted for two major accomplish Most Pure Heart of Mary Chapel

- visit www.kofpc.org. of the Knights of Peter Claver, Coast. For more information on on historically black parishes on the GulfClaver and author of two previous books is a fourth-generation Knight of Peter nings of our historic order. Mr.of ChestangPeter Claver recently published Archivist for the Archdiocese of Mobile,About has the author: in all its glory! founders tour. and whose gravesite we visited as part of a Knights of Peter councilClaver included Frank Collins, who was one of the Lay Founders1909 the rest of Mon Luis Council No.3 were initiated; this who would form Mon Luis Council No. 3. On 21 November Council No. 2 at St. Peter the Apostle Church, as well as 2 men world we live in! Charter Member of Council No. 1. Isn’t God great?the Whatresearch a small for her – Arthur C. Taylor was logicalher grandfather and sacramental and records search for her family. I performed plots to other families, Mrs. Gladsby asked me toexhumed perform the a remainsgenea of about 300 deceased in orderscandal to sellin Chicago the where the owner and other employeesTaylor had and her aunt Iona Taylor had been victimsDept. of of the the Archdiocese cemetery of Mobile. Her father Lawrenceby the name Sentell of Mrs. Wanda Gladsby called me at the Archives another lay founder and National Secretary,founders and Arthur and C.Supreme Taylor. Knight from 1909 to 1926, appointedFrank Trenier, National Chaplain, Gilbert Faustina, onepastor of the of laythe church, Fr. Conrad Rebesher, Mobile,Fr. Dorsey 40 men who were was initiated into Council No. 1, including the Larsoza became Secretary, and Fr. VanKnight, Baast wasEdward Treasurer. Chastang became Deputy Grand Knight, Morris May every knight aspire to true manhood On 14 November 1909, 18 men were initiated into Chastang I digress for a moment. Several weeks ago a lady from Chicago On 7 November 1909 at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church in chronicling the early begin Genesis of the Knights

Richard Chastang, please Genesis - Mobile, Alabama Most Pure Heart of Mary Church, - The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 1515 2009 Award winners Knights of Peter Claver

Gold Medal Award of Merit Northern States District Council of the Year Brother Roger E. Owens Brother Marvin J. Bardo Peter and Paul Charles Bright, Council #261 St. Rita, Council #97 Council #313 Denver, Colorado Indianapolis, Indiana Decatur, Georgia Central States District Grand Knight of the Year Silver Medal Awards 2009 Brother Lee Cady Knight Harris, Jr. State of Texas Charles Bright, Council #261 St. Monica, Council #151 Sir Knight James Neal Denver, Colorado Houston, Texas St. Monica, Council #151 award winners Houston, Texas Gulf Coast District 2009 National Claver Family Brother Horace Young Brother James Ballard of the Year St. Philip Neri, Council #222 Most Blessed Sacrament, Council #376 St. Monica, Unit #151 Houston, Texas Atlanta, Georgia Houston, Texas State of Louisiana Brother Charles R. Duplechain Wilfred B. Ricard, Council #116 Baton Rouge, Louisiana Brother Andrew J. Johnson Wilfred B. Ricard, Council #116 Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Ladies Auxiliary

Gold Medal Award of Merit Lady Vivian W. Sneed Central States District Lady Shirley Hartfield Cartagena, Court #32 Lady Loretta Richardson St. Felicitas/St. Ailbe, Court #181 Port Arthur, Texas Deacon Charles Bright, Court #261 Chicago, Denver, Colorado State of Louisiana Lady Selena Henry Lady Rachel V. Hampton Western States District Our Lady Of Victory, Court #63 St. Joseph the Worker, Court #267 Lady Myrtle Powell New Iberia, Louisiana New Orleans, Louisiana Immaculate Heart Of Mary, Court #137 Oakland, California Lady Della Mae James Lady Emmer Rena Our Lady Perpetual Help, Court #54 Immaculate Heart of Mary, Court #141 Court of the Year St. Martinville, Louisiana Lake Charles, Louisiana St. Monica, Court #151 Lady Onella Viltz Houston, Texas Silver Medal Awards Our Lady of Victory, Court #63 Gulf Coast District New Iberia, Lousiana Financial Secretary of the Year Lady Inez Simpson Lady Minnie Durosseauv , Court #110 Northern States District St. Monica, Court #289 Charleston, South Carolina Lady Estena Winfield Gary, Indiana St. Sabina, Court #192 State of Texas Chicago, Illinois Grand Lady of the Year Lady Norris M. Pointer Lady Susie M. Harris Lady Henrietta Robertson St. Benedict the Abbot, Court #248 St. Joseph, Court #93 Little Theresa, Court #11 Houston, Texas Chicago, Illinois Lafayette, Louisiana 16 highlights 2009 convention convention 2009

Knights of Peter Claver Archbishop Wilton Gregory

New Orleans celebrate 100 years of service By Kanobia Blackmon, as edited by Athanase Jones Photos by Walter Powers

he Knights of Peter Claver and its NAACP were founded in the same year. Both organizations have Ladies Auxiliary are celebrating 100 been critically important in confronting and eliminating racism years of service. The nation’s only and discrimination from our church and country.” Father Chiffriller said the appointment of African-American Arch- T historically Black Catholic Fraternal bishop Wilton Gregory as archbishop of Atlanta is an example Order kicked off the celebration on August 2, of the progress that has been made in the Catholic Church. He 2009, with its Centennial Convention Mass at went on to say that the election of President Barack Obama the Ernest J. Moral Convention Center in New indicates the progress the country has made in general. During Orleans. The principal celebrant was Arch- his homily, he also explained the readings and the Gospel and ap- bishop Wilton D. Gregory of Atlanta. Archbishop plied it to issues the members deal with today in their daily lives. Clergy from across the country participated in the Mass Gregory is the former president of the U.S. including His Eminence, Cardinal Francis George, archbishop of Conference of Catholic Bishops. Chicago; His Eminence, Cardinal DiNardo, archbishop of Galveston-Houston; and His Eminence, Cardinal , Very Reverend Edward J. Chiffriller, Superior General of the archbishop of Philadelphia. Most Reverend Joseph N. Perry, aux- Josephite Fathers and Brothers, was the homilist for the Mass. iliary bishop of Chicago and the National Chaplain for the Knights He addressed the people about the history of the organization of Peter Claver, also was one of the concelebrants of the Mass. and how far it has come. Father Chiffriller went back to that day New Orleans Mayor C. Ray Nagin later welcomed the group of November 7, 1909, at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church in and thanked them for the service they provide to the country. He Mobile, Alabama: “40 men took the first initiation of this new was especially appreciative to the organization for the services Catholic fraternal organization known at the Knights of Peter provided during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and provided Claver.” Father Chiffriller went on to say that many blessings have an update on the city’s recovery efforts. Also in attendance for come to the Catholic Church in the United States and , this special Centennial celebration were the Knights from the South Carolina, thanks to the Noble Order. Father Chiffriller worldwide International Alliance of Catholic Knights, of which the said, “It is providential, that the Knights of Peter Claver and the organization is a member. 17

Father Edward Chiffriller

Supreme Knight Gene A. Phillips, Sr.; Bishop Joseph N. Perry, KPC National Chaplain; Mayor Nagin; Supreme Lady Dr. Geralyn C. Shelvin. 18 2009 convention highlights 19 20 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org Past Leaders of the Noble Order

Mr. Gilbert Faustina Dr. Beverly V. Baranco, Jr. Mr. Chester J. Jones Mrs. A. R. Aubry 1st Supreme Knight 6th Supreme Knight 11th Supreme Knight 2nd Supreme Lady 1909–1926 1952–1958 1982–1988 1928–1952

Mr. Louis Israel Dr. Eugene B. Perry Mr. Paul C. Condoll Mrs. E. B. Jones 2nd Supreme Knight 7th Supreme Knight 12th Supreme Knight 3rd Supreme Lady 1926–1940 1958–1964 1988–1994 1952–1958 officers past past

Mr. Alphonse Pierre Auguste Mr. Shields G. Gilmore, Jr. Mr. A. Jackie Elly Mrs. I. Y. Bowman 3rd Supreme Knight 8th Supreme Knight 13th Supreme Knight 4th Supreme Lady 1940–1941 1964–1970 1994–2000 1958–1964

Mr. J. H. Clouser Mr. Ernest Granger, Sr. Hon. Arthur C. McFarland Mrs. Thelma P. Lombard 4th Supreme Knight 9th Supreme Knight 14th Supreme Knight 5th Supreme Lady 1941–1946 1970–1976 2000–2006 1964–1970

Mr. J. Roland Prejean Mr. Murry J. Frank Mrs. M. L. Lunnon Mrs. Florence W. Lee 5th Supreme Knight 10th Supreme Knight 1st Supreme Lady 6th Supreme Lady 1946–1952 1976–1982 1926–1928 1970–1976 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 21 Past Leaders of the Noble Order

Mr. Thomas R. Lee, Jr. 1st Executive Secretary 1960–1962

Mrs. Elise Lenoir Morris Rev. J. Kelly Rev. John LaBauve 7th Supreme Lady 1st National Chaplain 6th National Chaplain 1976–1982 1909–1927 1970–1986

Mr. Hunington H. Dusau 2nd Executive Secretary 1962–1964 Rev. Charles John 2nd National Chaplain 1928–1928 (no photo available) Mrs. Consuella M. Broussard Bishop Joseph A. Francis 8th Supreme Lady 7th National Chaplain 1982–1988 1986–1992 past Mr. Wallace L. Young, Jr. 3rd Executive Secretary 1964–1972 officers

Mrs. Dorothy B. Henderson Rev. Joseph Lally Bishop Curtis J. Guillory 9th Supreme Lady 3rd National Chaplain 8th National Chaplain 1988–1994 1928–1944 1992–1998 Mr. W. Charles Keyes, Jr. 4th Executive Secretary 1972–1999 Executive Director 1999–2004

Ms. Leodia Gooch Rev. Francis H. Wade Bishop George V. Murry 10th Supreme Lady 4th National Chaplain 9th National Chaplain 1994–2000 1944–1951 1998–2002 Mr. Athanase J. Jones, Jr. 5th Executive Director 2004–2005

Mrs. Mary L. Briers Bishop Harold R. Perry Bishop Dominic Carmon 11th Supreme Lady 5th National Chaplain 10th National Chaplain 2000–2006 1951–1970 2002–2004 Mr. H. Bronco Henderson 6th Executive Director 2006–2008 22 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org the operation of the organization while he attended college. Later he served as cashier clerk and bookkeeper, processing monthly reports for the Senior and the Junior Divisions. In 1972, Supreme Knight Ernest Granger promoted Brother Keyes to the post of Executive Sec- retary beginning an unparalleled career of charting the daily manage- ment of the organization, overseeing record keeping and organizing national conventions of the Senior and Junior Divisions. In 1999, his title was changed to Executive Director. Paul Condoll worked with Charles Keyes in the National Office in reverse roles – first as bookkeeper under Charles’ supervision and later as Supreme Knight supervising Charles. About Charles, he wrote: “I can truly say that Charles had five loves. He always put God first, then his wife, his mother, the rest of the family and the Order of the Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary.” In May 1963, Charles married his sweetheart and friend, Brenda Lawless. He often credited his ac- complishments to her support, cooperation and patience in caring for him and their “We are Family” organization. He also gave credit for his success to his late mother, Annie Keyes, who provided him with all of the opportunities she could give her son. She taught him the values of a good wholesome Christian life, encouraging him to always “keep Reprint from The Claverite, Vol. 85, No. 2, Winter 2004 Winter 2, No. 85, Vol. Claverite, The from Reprint your cool.” And he once praised the other woman in his life, his sec- Remembering William Charles Keyes, Jr. retary, JoAnn Granger Jones, who for 33 years was “his right and left hands, a true supporter and cooperative person.” During his service to KPC, Charles developed a close relationship His journey with members of the clergy. Bishop Joseph N. Perry, current KPC National Chaplain, first met Brother Keyes in 1979, while serving as a priest in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. The late Brother Booker Ashe, through Claverism OFM, Cap. of The House of Peace, had brought the Noble Order to By Hon. Arthur C. McFarland, Fourteenth Supreme Knight Milwaukee. “Charles was invaluable with his assistance to us,” the Bishop said. “We were recipients of his deep support and concern n a solemn day in Los Angeles, Father Robert M. already premised in his admiration for our Capuchin Brother. The Kearns rose to speak about the spirit that joined Knights of Peter Claver, for the first time in Milwaukee, brought for- three men – Claver, the Rev. Martin ward the presence and active collaboration of black Catholic men in Luther King, Jr. and William Charles Keyes, Jr. the Archdiocese. And for this we were grateful … Over the years, my O Like Peter Claver, a saint of the Catholic Church own meetings with Charles gave me the immediate impression that and King, who led a peaceful movement for social change, Charles he was a Catholic gentleman, committed to our faith and its traditions Keyes devoted himself to a life-long ministry and vocation. “Charles and showing himself a true ambassador for the Knights. In Charles, I Keyes was formed in the spirit of Claverism, service to the family of detected an abiding respect for the Church’s clergy. I always felt a warm God,” said Father Kearns, of St. Brigid Catholic Church in reception by him and a willingness to be of help. He carried keen in- Los Angeles and former Superior General of the Josephites, during sights about the position of Catholic lay movements such as ours with- the most recent celebration of the slain civil rights leader’s birth. “Sir in the Church … He managed well the position of executive director.” Knight Keyes personified that spirit of dedication. Yes, that is the Bishop Perry also commented on the complexity of Brother Keyes’ connection, the link, this day with St. Peter Claver, Dr. Martin Lu- role as executive: “A myriad of details were naturally involved amidst ther King, Jr. and Sir Knight Charles Keyes. It is in the spirit.” any number of opinions of others about those same details. The posi- Brother Charles Keyes’ spirit departed this earth on Sept. 22, 2004, tion asked sometimes for the additional hat of being referee and mak- in his native New Orleans. His death ended thirty-two years of con- ing wise decisions. And Charles held no resentments.” Finally, captur- tinuous service as Executive Secretary (then Executive Director) of the ing the impact of the death of Brother Keyes, Bishop Perry stated: “We Knights of Peter Claver. With his death came the reaction from across have lost a good friend and a hard worker in his devoted attention and the United States that the Church has lost a dedicated servant, a loving his desire to be of genuine service to each knight, each lady and each family man, a confidant, friend and mentor to many who knew him. junior … Perhaps, some conspicuous memorial should be erected to William Charles Keyes, Jr. Keyes, Charles William The Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary had lost its most ar- his memory in the Order. He proved a faithful servant.” dent proponent and defender. We recall his journey through Claverism. Bishop Curtis J. Guillory, past National Chaplain, had a long rela- Brother Keyes began his journey through Claverism like so many tionship with Brother Keyes. Of his friend and Brother in Christ, he Knights on a Sunday afternoon in December 1951. A 10-year-old wrote: “Brother Keyes devoted his time, talent and treasure in living Charles Keyes was one of 15 young men initiated into Father John H. and witnessing the gospel values and the teachings of the Church… Dorsey Junior Branch #50 at St. Peter Claver Church Hall in New Or- He was a devoted husband and father…He inspired us while he leans. Later, he was initiated into Council #50. In 1961, then-Execu- was alive and his memory will continue to motivate us to be de- remembering tive Secretary Sir Knight Thomas R. Lee, Jr. hired Keyes in the National voted in furthering the kingdom of Jesus.” Office. While serving under Lee’s leadership, Brother Keyes learned For 11 years, Bishop Dominic Carmon, the immediate past Na- The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 23 tional Chaplain of KPC, had a close association with Brother Keyes. the 25th anniversary of his “Journey Through Claverism,” Brother “During that time, I developed a great appreciation of his friendship Keyes wrote: “I would hope that I could live long enough to sit down and was edified by his faithful and dedicated service as Executive and attend a national convention and not have the responsibility of Director of the Knights of Peter Claver … However difficult it may making sure that the chairs are adequate to accommodate the meet- be for us to accept the fact that William Charles Keyes’ earthly jour- ing.” After planning and executing the details of 33 Senior conven- ney has ended, we must accept this moment as part of God’s plan tions and 15 Junior conventions, Brother Keyes got his wish at his … Charles saw God’s providence in all the events of his life. He took final convention in 2004 in Louisville, Kentucky. For the first time, each step in his life as faithfully and prayerfully as he knew how. He he sat with arms folded watching the staff carry out the work he had learned to trust that every moment had within in it a grace from God done for many years with little instruction from him. You could see that would lead him closer to salvation.” the pride bubbling beneath the surface. He was pleased. Unbeknownst to many, Brother Keyes helped to achieve at least Brother Keyes devoted much of his energy to the expansion of the two miracles, according to former Supreme Knight Chester J. Jones. Knights throughout the country. “I hope that I can live many years “Charles and I both believed that a true ‘miracle’ occurred at the to see our organization in every state in the United States, to see us 1984 National Convention in New Orleans when we were sched- come together as an African-American Fraternal Organization work- uled to march from the KPC national headquarters to the New ing within our community, within our church for the welfare of all of Orleans Coliseum for Mass,” Jones said. “The morning of the march, the poor, the sick, the homeless and the infirmed,” he wrote in 1997. it was raining very hard, so Charles and I discussed canceling the While KPC is not organized in every state in the union, Keyes over- events. However, from the second-floor balcony I looked down saw the expansion of the organization from 18 to 32 states and the remembering and saw all those ladies dressed in white, ready to go and some of District of Columbia during his time as chief administrator. In fact, them were praying the rain to stop. On that day, God answered the KPC is represented in every state with a significant African-American prayers and stopped the rain.” The second miracle occurred three Catholic population, except North Carolina. years later when John Paul II visited Xavier University. “It was Brother Keyes regularly preached unity within the Order. “This the first time any pope had addressed African-Americans directly in is what Peter Claver did. We must emulate, we must go back to the the history of America,” Jones said. “Thanks, Charles for assisting me old ritual of doing for others, as we would have others do for us.

to write the appropriate request letter to the Pope, for history was The organization has the potential. It has the ability and capability of William Charles Keyes, Jr. made in New Orleans when he agreed to appear.” achieving any and every goal that can be achieved,” he once said. “We There was at least one occasion in his life that Brother Keyes did must put petty bitterness and personalities aside and look at every not follow his mother’s advice not to lose his cool. According to Knight and every Lady as a child of God. We only can accomplish former Supreme Lady Consuella M. Broussard: “We were in Kan- these goals and objectives if we carry out the Preamble of our Noble sas City at the Mulbach Hotel and the hotel management took the Order by praying together so that we can all go to heaven and rejoice Ladies’ meeting room and gave it to another convention group. with the Lord and St. Peter Claver.” Charles Keyes not only talked the Charles stood up on a chair with all the ladies around him just in talk but he also walked the walk. front of the door leading into the meeting chamber to protest the Speaking to each of us, he once said: “As we prepare for the injustice orchestrated by the hotel. Needless to say, our meeting new millennium, let us all rededicate ourselves to those pledges room was returned to us.” She saw Charles as more than an Ex- that we took when we were initiated into the Knights of Peter ecutive Director. “Charles was our Peter Claver. That solid thread Claver or the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary and truly woven throughout the Claver fabric that has kept us strong and say that ‘We are Family.’” together as a family through the tough times and the good times.” In addition to his service to Knights of Peter Claver, Brother Keyes Lady Broussard further commented, “Although he has been elevat- served on the board of several organizations including the Associate ed to that Divine Order of Knighthood with Jesus, let us continue Catholic Charities for the Archdiocese of New Orleans, the New Or- the spiritual legacy he wove into the fabric of our Noble Order.” leans Archdiocesan School Board, the local school boards of Corpus Through hardships and joy, Brother Keyes and Immediate Past Christi and St. the Archangel Parishes, advisory boards of Supreme Lady Leodia Gooch nurtured a professional relationship Lafon Nursing Home of the Sisters of the Holy Family, the Josephite that grew into a friendship during the 28 years they knew each other. Fathers and Brothers of Baltimore, Maryland and the Office for Black “What I loved most about Keyes – I never called him Charles – was Catholics for the Archdiocese of New Orleans. For his service, he his deep love for his family and his devotion to his faith,” she said. has received numerous honors including Knight of the Year Award “Keyes and I are friends. I use the present tense because, in the truest from the New Orleans Central Committee in 1971; the New Orleans sense, he yet lives and what we shared together will never die.” Chamber of Commerce Leader Award in 1973; the Silver Medal Past Supreme Lady Elise LeNoir Morris also admired Brother Keyes’ of Merit Award for his service to KPC in 1977; and, in 1977, the devotion to his family. “Whenever we met he spoke highly and glow- Gold Medal of Merit for 25 years of service to KPC. He also received ingly about them. Together with so many others I pray for the happy awards from the E.O. Moss Grand Assembly #4, 4th Degree and in repose of his soul and I extend sincerest sympathy to his family.” 1998, was inducted into the Solvent Military Order of Malta at St. Supreme Navigator Harry Beevers said, “St. Peter Claver now has Matthew’s Cathedral in Washington, D.C. He is the recipient of the help to watch over this fine organization.” following papal honors: Knights of St. Gregory the Great and the Or- During his life, Brother Keyes once wrote that he had hoped he der of St. John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and Malta. could live long enough to document activities, programs, projects Brother Keyes is survived by his wife, Brenda Lawless Keyes, and problems that developed during the administrations he served. two sons, Charles Keyes and Todd J. Keyes; two daughters, Deidra He did that. As his life drew to a close, he oversaw the hiring in 2000 Keyes Riley and Stephanie Keyes Butler; four grandsons; and three of a historian to write the history of the Knights of Peter Claver. On granddaughters. 24 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org

district newsnorthern states district western central states district states gulf coast district district = areas where state of state of there are no texas louisiana councils or courts

state of louisiana

news Lady Della Mae James receives KPC Gold Medal of Merit

district Lady Della Mae James of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Court #54 of the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary in St. Mar- tinville was awarded the 2009 St. Peter Claver Gold Medal of Merit at the KPC Centennial Convention in New Orleans. Most Esteemed Supreme Lady Geralyn Shelvin was the presenter at the Centennial Banquet on August 3, 2009. The St. Peter Claver Gold Medal of Merit is the highest award on the 3rd Degree level given to a KPC member as determined by his/her individual contributions to better human relations, the promotion of peace and understanding, preservation of the dig- nity of life and improvement of the quality of human life. Lady James, a St. Martinville native, has been an active mem- ber of the KPC Ladies Auxiliary Court #54 since 1960. She has served locally as Grand Lady, Vice Grand Lady, Assistant Ju- nior Daughter Counselor, and on various local court committees. On the district/state level, she has served as both a member and president of Teche Central Committee State of Louisiana District #3. Lady James also is a member of KPC 4th Degree Ladies of Grace St. Paul Chapter #3 of Lafayette, and a member of Notre Dame Catholic Church. Lady James is the third KPC Ladies Auxiliary Court #54 member to receive the St. Peter Claver Gold Medal of Merit award; previous recipients are Gracious Lady Rita Lewis and the late Aline Garrett. Lady Della Mae James. The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 25 Knights of Peter Claver Court #338’s members are constantly seeking ways to serve our church and community. Some of our most recent Father John McShane accolades include designing a cookbook in 2008 under the administration of Past Grand Lady Sandria Beauty, in which Ladies Auxiliary Court #338 $3,000 of the profit was donated to St. Lucy Church Building Fund. In the spring of 2009, our Vice Grand Lady Tandra Houma, Louisiana Howard spearheaded a very spiritual prayer breakfast with the theme “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me (Psalm 51:12).” We had more than 100 ladies in Do not forget to do good to others, attendance. A food drive was coordinated by Grand Lady Teresa and share with them, because such Bergeron during July and August, with the help of St. Lucy sacrifices please God.,, (Hebrews 13:16 ) Church Parish. A letter was sent from Mr. Darwin Lafont of Terrebonne Churches United Food Bank, thanking the ladies ‘‘ With the aforementioned Scripture at heart, the members, for their community service. We are planning a Christmas officers and Grand Lady Teresa Jones Bergeron of KPC Court raffle to fund Court #338’s first annual Lady Rita Mae #338 actively serve our community as well as the parish of Hutchinson Scholarship Fund. Lady Hutchinson was a vibrant, St. Lucy Church, which reopened in 1986 after being closed hard-working member of Court #338 who served both the for more than 20 years. Along with, and supported by, a youth of St. Lucy and the Terrebonne Parish Public School strong Council of Knights, we serve in all capacities of church System. life – lectors, choir members, ushers, eucharistic ministers, The officers and members of Father John McShane Court pastoral council and finance committee members. The #338 are truly striving “to do good to others.” members of Court #338 are anxiously awaiting the initiation of approximately eight new Ladies and are currently in the Yours in Claverism, process of rebuilding our Junior Daughter Court. Lady Carmalisa James, Lecturer state of louisiana district

native New Orleanian, Archbishop Gregory Aymond is the 14th archbishop of New Orleans. Twelve members of E.O. Moss Grand Assembly #4 were news invited as Honor Guards for the installation of New Orleans Archbishop A Gregory M. Aymond on August 20, 2009.

They are pictured from left to right. BACK ROW: Sir Knights The following members of M.L. Lummon Chapter #4, Ladies Calvin Keller, Errol Milanes and Irvin Henry, Past Faithful of Grace, also were present at the installation: Gracious Ladies Navigator. MIDDLE ROW: Sir Knights Alfred Peters, Lionel Elvina Beevers, Supreme Captain; Gail Barnes Johnson, Boswell and Bryant Bartley. FRONT ROW: Sir Knights Supreme Comptroller; Lena Blaise, Supreme Outer Sentinel; George Bourgeous; Earl Henry, Faithful Navigator; Lawrence Ursula Allen, Faithful Navigator; Katherine Darville, Faithful Sylvester, Supreme Captain; Harry Beevers, Past Supreme Captain; Cheryl Cooper, Fumilayo Smallwood, Members. Navigator; Paul Gabriel, Faithful Captain; and Charles Saviore. – Submitted By: Sir Knight Errol J. Milanes – Photos: Sir Knight Earl E. Henry, Gracious Lady Gail B. Johnson 26 district news Mother‘s family, andCouncil#34. alongwithCourt Hall for abreakfastsponsoredbyRev.over totheKPC celebrated theMassandallwent Father Lambert cil #34. andCoun - Grand LadyMillerandmany membersofCourt Coteau, Louisiana,andattended St.Peter ClaverHighwith a SisteroftheHolyFamily. Rev. Mothergrewup inGrand Mass incelebrationofRev. MotherEva Regina’sJubileeas did the installation. pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Church, ary 18, 2009. Father James Lambert, Barat Court #34 took place on Janu tary and Paula Hardy, Financial Secretary. Lady; Annette Charles, Recording Secre Belson, Treasurer; Gwen Miller, Grand dies Dorothy Guidry, Inner Guard; Danielle Daughter Counselor. Grand Lady and Peggy Jones, Asst. Junior Vaultz, Outer Guard; Edith Guidry, Vice Loraine Marks, Jr. Dtr. Counselor; Linda Court #34 Installation of officers for St.Sophie On July 13, 2009, Court and Council #34 attended andCouncil#34 Court OnJuly13,2009, B ack F ront R ow state of louisiana R ow : Ladies : - La - - (cont.) Mass in the KPC Hall. Mass intheKPC followingthe breakfast wasserved Wilhelmina L.Cormier, age95.A andLady Lady HazelJames,age98, pictured weretwootherrecipients: Not #34. Lady GwenMillerofCourt ber LadyHildaWiltz andGrand age 100,NationalLayBoardMem- LouiseCharles, recipient LadyMary preme LadyGeralynShelvin,75-year Deputy Michelle Jackson, MostSu- Pictured (lefttoright):LouisianaState Church inGrandCoteau,Louisiana. atSt.CharlesBorromeo #34 Court for 15,2009, was heldFebruary Recognitionof75-year members district news 27 27 - - On February 13, 2009, Booker and Thelma Booker and Thelma Brother Booker and Thel Clara and Degree 4th iliary, #39. Chapter Martin Ann ma Henderson celebrated 64 years of matrimony. The Hendersons have been blessed with six children, 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Indiana, in moved to Gary, 1948 and joined St. Monica Catholic Parish. They are still faithful members of that parish, now St. Monica – St. Luke Parish. Booker is member of St. Degree a 3rd Council , #289 and Thelma is past a and Navigator Faithful Aux Ladies KPC of member

www.kofpc.org | www.kofpc.org 2009-10 Issue | Winter Claverite The Booker and Thelma Henderson. Booker and Thelma Court #93 Court

The Knights and Ladies of Council and Court #93

Claver Day Mass and award luncheon on September Claver Day Mass and award coun- workers in our thankful for all our hard are We

Sts. Monica/Luke Catholic Parish Catholic Monica/Luke Sts. Indiana Gary, Chicago, Illinois St. Joseph Council Council Joseph St. and northern states district states northern – Submitted by: Lady Johnnie M. Maiden salute our very- own Lady Susie M. Harris on receiv Inc. Silver Medal ing the 2009 Knights of Peter Claver, of Merit at the National Convention. Father William bestowed a bless- pastor of St. Kilian Church, Vanecko, ing on Lady Harris for her Christian services rendered during a Mass on August 23, 2009. by the Chicago Inter-Council. 13, 2009, was sponsored The Claver Day celebration was held at St. Kilian and of Council and Hall, the home church Church luncheon, Lady Harris Court #93. During the award a Certificate for her Distinguished Service was awarded in Claverism. cil and court. (cont.) state of louisiana louisiana of state 28 district news Mass. Closing 2009 after CSDC bishop Charles J.Chaput #261, withDenverArch- 2009. at Opening Mass of CSDC distribute Holy Communion Givens, Senior Council #57, Ken Green, Benjamin E. administrator, and Deacon Denver’s Cure d’Ars Parish

Council and Court #261 Father Simon Kalonga, LadiesAuxiliary, Court central states district opens CSD Conference2009. opens CSD from left) and 2009 District Conference President Barbara Bailey (center). CSD Ladies Auxiliary Officers – District Deputy Janice Gray (Second Conference Co-Chair Knight Roland Jones, Council #261, district news 29 Lady Perlie M. Whitley was the recipient of the Mary McLeod McLeod Mary the of recipient the was Whitley M. Perlie Lady Council Moor the Benedict St. Claver, Peter of Knights The on initiation first its held #308 Court Beasley Barbara Sister Grand Knight Bob Cooper J. Midder Grand Lady Willa Lady Perlie M. Whitley Lecturer Knights and Ladies of St. Council #308 and Knights and Sister Barbara Beasley Court #308. Bethune Legacy Award on August 22, 2009. This award is given given is award This 2009. 22, August on who Inc. Award Legacy Women, Bethune Negro of Council has National the Whitley of Lady member a Bethune. to Dr. of characteristics and the NCNW of exemplifies Section Omaha the great with a was positions award many this in served Receiving years. four last the for #308. Court president of as Beasley Barbara Sister and her for honor Sister Auxiliary, Ladies Claver, Peter of Knights the and #308 to service of years 20 celebrated #308, Court Beasley Barbara 28, August on Order” Noble Our and Community “Church, Midder J. Willa Lady Grand and Cooper Bob Knight Grand 2009. our was speaker keynote The event. evening the over Louisville, presided from RGS, Beasley, Barbara Sister RSG namesake, own very Crumbley, Lwanga Gayle Sister was her Assisting of Kentucky. members proud are Ladies Both Maryland. Spring, Silver were from event the of Co-chairs #308. Court Beasley Barbara Sister the Falkner. Patricia Lady and Crumbley Wayne Knight Moor the Benedict St. members. charter 14 with 1989, 19, 1989, August 16, September on held was initiation first #308’s of Council moment a with event our opened We members. charter 12 with certificates Award members. deceased our acknowledge to to silence given were pins lapel cross and existence of years 100 noting Vavrina, Ken Father members, clergy Our membership. received entire our Crumbley Lwanga Gayle Sister and Beasley, Barbara Sister Midder Willa Lady Grand Award. Faith” the of years “Keeper the outstanding her for Award Claverism” of Ladies “Spirit the received Twelve Lady. Grand as terms three served having service, The of hours. volunteer their for recognized were Knights four and uplifting. and rewarding very was evening www.kofpc.org | www.kofpc.org 2009-10 Issue | Winter Claverite The

KPC National Convention in New New in Convention National KPC th Ordinary of the Archdiocese of Omaha. The Installation Installation The Omaha. of Archdiocese the of Ordinary th The Knights of Peter Claver, St. Benedict the Moor Council Council Moor the Benedict St. Claver, Peter of Knights The

Utmost in our council and court is our desire to provide provide to desire our is court and council our in Utmost KPC #308 escorts Our Lady of Fatima. The traveling statue is a reminder of Our Lady’s message of of message Lady’s Our of reminder a is statue traveling The as installed was Lucas George Archbishop 2009, 22, July On Mass was held at St. Cecelia Cathedral, Omaha. Participation Participation Omaha. Cathedral, Cecelia St. at bishop held new was the Mass greet to line in First only. invitation formal by was Tribe, Winnebago the of representatives American Native by were followed America, in people” “first the being of evidence as Joyce Lady wife, his #308), (Council Cooper Robert Knight Grand #308. Court of Midder J. Willa Lady Grand and Cooper, Noble our and community, church, our to service volunteer 100 the During Order. St. Benedict the Moor Moor the Benedict St. Council #308 and Sister Sister and #308 Council #308 Court Beasley Barbara #308, served as honor guards and escorts for the International International the for escorts and guards honor as served #308, visited “she” when Fatima of Lady Our of Statue Virgin Pilgrim everyone Not 2008. 2, October on Parish Moor the Benedict St. several but , Marian the at pray to Portugal to travel can traveling the see to time the took parishioners and Ladies Knights, October Omaha, of Archdiocese the visited it when statue Fatima 2008. 1-21, to return people where place holy a is Fatima that and peace Mary. Virgin the of mediation the through Christ 10 the Orleans, Sister Barbara Beasley of Court #308 received a plaque plaque a received #308 Court of Beasley Barbara Sister Orleans, 2008. during hours volunteer most second the for central states district states central 30 district news Lady Jean Lewis Gill. Lady Carrie Morrissette, Gracious LadyTaylor, Dorothy Lewis Mrs. and Bernice Gracious Allen, Catholicto Catholic Social ServicesSocial Services. receptionist, From leftGraciousThe are GraciousGracious LadiesLady Constance of Agnes Coleman after presentation of baby items Father Edgar Ryan Court #272 Knights ofPeterClaverLadiesAuxiliary Gracious LadyCarrieMorrissettechairstheGoodNeighbor/ and AdoptionProgram forunwedandadoptivemothers. homes, andgivegenerously Newborn toCatholicSocialServices Gracious Ladiesalsocollectdonationsquarterlyforarea nursing mission individuallywithdonationsoffoodandclothing.The clothing, andspiritual).ManyGraciousLadiesalsosupportthe support(food, with addictionsandthoseinneedoftemporary thehomeless,those the MobileRescuemission,whichserves catechists. members, parishcouncilofficers,eucharisticministersand its individualparishesinsuchroles aslectors,musicians/choir moving positivelyinitscommunityandusingtalentswithin – Submittedby LadyJoycelynBayles – GrandLady Maxine Allen met topraytogetheratOurLady ofFatima CatholicChurch onSeptember13,2009. schools. historically black Catholicelementary isoneofthethreeremaininginnercity locatedinBirmingham,Alabama, School, Holy FamilySchool. CatholicElementary This year, asinyearspast,AgnesColemanprovides fundsto Black Peter CatholicChurch ClaverDay, unity:CelebratingSaint inBirmingham, Alabama, Courts allLadiesAuxiliary School fostering:Through its TheAgnesColemanChapter#1LadiesofGracekeeps gulf coast district Mobile, Alabama Agnes Coleman Chapter #1 Ladies of Grace 2009 Angel Tree Project Tree Angel 2009 , the court donated books to Holy Family Catholic Elementary toHolyFamily CatholicElementary donatedbooks , thecourt community, bothspiritually andculturally. to improve ourlocalchapter’s visibilityinthechurch and Catholicism, showloveandencourageitsmemberstowork Lady FannieBurden istheFaithfulNavigator. Sullivan andGraciousLadyDeoraTinsley, respectively. Gracious year’s chairmanandco-chairmanwere GraciousLadyWynell enhance theeducationalprograms/projects attheschool.This School. Thefinancialdonationisdesignatedtobeused musical extravaganzathatbenefitsMostPure HeartofMary Committee. Community Service Wynell Sullivan. Faithful NavigatorFannie Burden,SisterNancyandGraciousLady From School. leftareGraciousLadyDeoraTinsley, ofMary Heart OSF,financial gifttoSisterNancyCrossen, principalofMost Pure of The GraciousLadiesofAgnesColemanafterpresentation – Submittedby:GraciousLadyConstanceP. Taylor, Reporter The GraciousLadiesofAgnesColemanstrivetofoster Each year, theGraciousLadiesofAgnesColemanhosta The Claverite|WinterIssue2009-10 |www.kofpc.org 31 district news The Atlanta Journal and on July 21, 2009. on July 21, Lady Esohe Asemota Lady Betty Egwenike received a kidney transplant Supporting our Juniors; attending our Knights/assisting Constitution at the first planning meeting for the 2010 MLK Birthday celebration. September 2009: bags 6 – Members donated of parishwide food drive to honor our groceries for a special pastor’s 30 was his specific wish. years as a priest. This Festival. Fall Parish prizes for our Members donated raffle Congratulations Ongoing graduated from Xavier University, Louisiana, this year. Louisiana, this year. graduated from Xavier University, She is currently enrolled at Georgia State University as a first-year graduate student in biology (molecular genetics and biochemistry). She also was awarded a research Following assistantship, includes a full tuition waiver. which to she plans to attend medical school graduate school, become an oncologist. Junior Daughter Gabrielle Brawner celebrate To graduated from Lovejoy High School this year. the occasion, a party for her at a local restaurant. was held Junior State University. She is attending Tennessee Brew is our newest member; she was Daughter Kelsey initiated August 29. God’s blessings to all! from her co-worker, Ceri McCarron. They have worked Ceri McCarron. They from her co-worker, Departmenttogether in the Archives at the Jimmy Carter LibraryPresidential and Museum for more than 20 storyyears. This was covered in Junior conferences and conventions/Gulf Coast District Junior conferences and conventions/Gulf conferences/National Conventions and donating Claver baskets; observing Mothers/Fathers Day and distributing corsages on their and special prayer cards for each respective days; supporting our sister courts/attending their functions; participating in initiations; cleaning the church quarterly; jointly preparing and serving monthly breakfast month following morning Masses; the third Sunday of each attending Inter-City Council meetings; participating in Ministry-sponsored Catholic Office for Black active events; Council in the Legion of Mary; as Parish parish outreach; members; lectors; choir ministers; members; eucharistic altar servers and each supporting (Juniors); our church, other; eligible parishioners/340 family members (age 50 dishes monthly at the and over) attend and provide potluck Social. (TNT) Parish & True Tried 18 Eucharistic Eucharistic th | www.kofpc.org 2009-10 Issue | Winter Claverite The – Court #340 22 – Council and Court – wereWe represented 19 25 – Members participated in Good – A number of Court #340 Ladies 10 – Senior Court members participated/ 11 In a joint effort with Council #340, our August 2009: 15 traveled to Macon (Council and Court #258, St. Peter Claver Parish) for our Inter-City Meeting, followed by initiations. That unit was recently reinstated, and is part of OnZone this 7. same date, another group of our Ladies attended the prayer breakfast sponsored by Court #300. July 2009: 31-Aug. 5 – Court #340 members attended the 2009 in New Orleans, Louisiana. National Convention It was awesome, especially the unprecedented turnout of our clergy and KPC/KPCLA membership at Sunday’s Convention Mass! Congress. The theme was, “As Grain Once Scattered.” Grain Once Scattered.” “As theme was, Congress. The GregoryAtlanta Wilton was the principal Archbishop celebrant. 20-21 – Members dressed out for weekend of the youngest and oldest Day Masses. Fathers Fathers were presented boutonnieres;child our Junior Daughters assisted with presenting fathers with special prayer cards. sponsored an interactive workshop for girls ages 14- 18, “Do Know You Who I Am?” Topics included: first impressions, body language, dignity and personal image. Local parishes were invited, as well as students from a nearby Catholic high school. assisted in the Sickle Cell Walk at Welcome All Park. Junior Knights and Junior Daughters distributed water. Friday outside Stations of the Cross with Hispanic parishioners. April 2009: Ladies helped prepare and serve the Lenten Fish Fry meals on Fridays. – Court #340 sponsored its second Prayer Breakfast: “Bright Our and guest Morning speaker Star.” was Reverend Doctor Sherry Austin. June 2009: 12-13 – Our unit participated in the Friday evening session and dressed out for Saturday’s Procession/ and attended the morning Exposition of the Eucharist, the 14 opening and evening closing Masses of May 2009: 1-3 – Members attended the Gulf Coast District Conference in Mobile, Alabama. 16 – Members of Council and Court #340 Inter-City attended the Area Meeting, followed by initiations. 19 – Members dressed out oldest child Mothers of the youngest and for Mothers Day. were presented with corsages at our weekend Mothers with presenting Day Masses; our Junior Daughters assisted mothers with special prayer cards. #340 Family dressed out for Low Sunday. News from Archbishop James P. Lyke Council and Court #340 #340 Court and Council Lyke P. James Archbishop from News Georgia Hapeville, 32 district news Knights andJuniorDaughtersofPeter Claver. asJunior more thantwodozenyoungpeopleparticipate and Court; #376; womenmakeuptheLadiesAuxiliary 34 Council Church, 29menaremembersofKPC Sacrament Junior Knights winatGulf Coast:AttheJunior complete their preparationforordination. encouraging them andprayingforthemto successfully e-mails andcardstoseveral African-American seminarians, residence on church grounds). Over several months, they sent with seminariansstudyingfor thepriesthood(indiocesan vocations: Severalmembersinitiatedcorrespondence Correspondence withseminarians andprayerfor Junior Knights lives. Christian full leading of challenge the meet to Catholics black for commitment and courage faith, of role the emphasized He descent). African of scholars of concentration largest world’s the has (which Center University Atlanta at Center Catholic Lyke House at years 14 for minister campus Branch, Edward Father by men 20 for conducted was and Club Men’s parish the with collaboration in 14 February renewal: spiritual of half-day Men’s andsomerecreational/therapyactivity.entertainment St JosephPlacetoprovidetheelderlyresidentswithsocial $167 topurchase aNintendoWii gamesystemasagiftto Court Council contributed$225andtheLadiesAuxiliary Outreach toSt.Josephretirementcommunity:The College inVirginia. This year, theawardwenttoJayJones,whoenteredHampton committee. merit andneed.ApplicantsarejudgedbyaKPC year communitycollegeortechnical on school; itisbased has beenacceptedtoanaccreditedfouryearcollege/two Church and graduating highschool seniorwhoattendsMBS awardfora offersa$500 Annual scholarship: KPC the GulfCoastDistrict. recent GrandKnight, JamesBallard,wontheSilverMedalfor #376 Our receivedthetopawardforcommunityservice. Church CouncilandCourt MostBlessedSacrament 2009. 4, attended theconventioninNewOrleans,July30-August convention:Councilmembers 100thanniversary KPC Knights activities Council andCourt #376 At Atlanta’s MostBlessed AtAtlanta’s ment Church, Atlanta Most BlessedSacra- gulf coast district It was held held was It • • • • • • • • • • • • throughout theyear, including: manyotherprojects the month,andbyinitiatingorsupporting asagroupbetweenMasseseach secondSundayof rosary theparishandcommunitybyreciting They serve same. businesses andencourageotherorganizationstodothe localblack worktosupport LadiesofKPC The 34 KPC LadiesAuxiliary from thisDivision’ssixsouthernstates. conference bringstogetherJuniorKnights andDaughters competition.The and asecondplaceprizeinthepoetry first placeprizeinthespeech competitionforoneagegroup, competitions,therewasa Challenge” speech andpoetry activities. Ofourmemberswhocompetedinthe“Spiritual inallmeetingsandconference participated parish KPC) Junior Knights (accompaniedbythreechaperones fromthe eight Mississippi,March 6-8,2009, Conference inGulfport, Annual bake sales atChristmasand Fundraising sales activities:Annualbake • • • • • • • Community service: Recruitment: Initiatedfournewmembers Junior Daughters Award annual $500 scholarshipAward toKaseyElliott annual $500 Orleans inJuly ConventioninNew intheNationalKPC/LA Participation Food Bank Contribute totheAtlanta intheGulfCoastConferenceMay Participation St. Nicholas Dayevents Christmas wishlistfordomesticviolenceshelter village seniorcitizens Prepare Thanksgiving dinner forSt.Josephretirement vocationswithletterstoseminarians Support celebration Provide itemstotheBrownBagcity-wideZone7KPC/LA Annual prayerbreakfastwithkeynotespeaker Celebrate St.Peter Claver’sDayinOctober playground to fosterfellowshipandraisefundsforthechildren’s thirdSundaybetweenMasses Monthly breakfastsevery Service for Christ Saturdays, altar service and clothing drives Liturgy oftheWord onSundays, withchildren ministry hours,whichProvided included morethan110service Sunday ofthemonth withtheparish congregation onsecond Prayed therosary Sponsored aparishThird SundayBreakfast inparishrecyclingprojects Participated seminarians Provided “well wishes”cardstodiocesan Joseph Place itemstotheseniorsatSt. Collected anddonatedtoiletry dinner andamovienight,gamenight Sponsored twodinnersfortheelderlyatSt.JosephPlace (cont.) The Claverite|WinterIssue2009-10 |www.kofpc.org 33 district news This

weekend

assembled at

#148 and #345,

Faithful Navigator Rita

a Claver family

welcomed Supreme Comptroller

Knights and Ladies from Councils gathered at the Knights and Ladies Social

September 2009:

– Mary E. Gaines, Publicity Chairperson, Court #148 Clavers ended their weekend activities with a scrumptious Members from Councils and Courts Once again, on December 13, 2008, the Junior Knights and and Knights Junior the 2008, 13, December on again, Once Montgomery, Alabama Montgomery, and Courts #148 and #345, General Assembly and GeneralChapter 30, and Juniors spent will be the first time in 30 years that the Gulf Coast District Conference is held in Montgomery. celebrating St. Peter Claver Day. 10 a.m. Sunday to celebrate holy Mass at the beautiful historical St. Jude Catholic Church. The Claver family enjoyed spirit-filled music and songs by the Gospel choir led by Mrs. Brenda Mathis. They were blessed by a wonderful homily delivered by pastor emeritus, Father Matthew Sindik. brunch at a local Montgomery restaurant. Montgomery Clavers are looking forward to hosting the 2010 Gulf Coast District Conference A warm in and May. heartfelt invitation is extended to all Clavers to attend the conference and have fellowship with Clavers from the Gulf Coast District. Ester and Faithful Captain Rebecca James and membersElmira of Meyers Chapter 30 Gail Barnes Johnson and Supreme Outer Sentinel LenaBlaise from Louisiana to the activities. Also attendingactivities the and celebration were: Immediate Past SupremeLady Mary Briers and Reverend Mr. Fred Briers Jr., GulfCoast District Secretaries Sir Knight Carlton RobinsonYolanda Robinson and and Past President Charlie Ester. Thosein attendance Club to enjoy a delicious meal of barbeque with alltrimmings. the The day was filled with good cheer, friendshipand camaraderie. It was a day that stretched intonight. early Juniors, Sir Knights and Ladies of Grace news #148 Court On August 23, 2008, 23, On August with the joined Knights the Junior for the day activity a dinner/game to provide Daughters Junior Junior Daughters Place. The of St. Joseph elderly residents provided Junior Knights The provided the food. and Ladies of the decorations. Two-thirds some prizes and the games, (50)residents participated in the event. Afterward, and they played shared fellowship, and Daughters Knights the Junior card games and electronic games on bingo (with prizes), and Ladies Auxiliary). (donated by senior Knights the Wii Everyone helped serve and bring meals to shut-in residents unable to attend. and dinner a sponsored and prepared forces joined Juniors The Daughters Junior Place. Joseph St. of the up residents setting the for with movie helped residents, the for bags residents. gift shut-in Christmas some to meals delivered and movie and meals | www.kofpc.org 2009-10 Issue | Winter Claverite The Participated Court’s in the Senior annual prayer breakfast Participated in the 2009Coast District (GCD) Gulf 2009. in March Conference received Junior Daughters second place in essayawards of for 6-8th grade; contest essayand second place in At the contest for 2-5th grade. Senior GCD senior Kasey Elliott Conference, graduating prize of $1,500.received the top scholarship Bible School, June 1-5; Atlanta July Bank, Food Vacation 9; All Saints Festival. received the sacrament four Junior Knights Last year, were three more members This year, of confirmation. 7. Wilton Gregory on June confirmed by Archbishop at Easter; First Annual Spring Fashion Show in April; Lenten April; Lenten Show in Fashion Annual Spring First at Easter; Gras Night Mardi Fry;Fish Family awards: activities and Other major • • • • Junior Knight/Daughter community service projects: 34 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org western states district

2009 National Convention recognition for Sacred Heart of Jesus Court #121 Ladies

National Junior Daughter National Junior Daughter National Junior Counselor of the Year Assistant Counselor of the Year Daughter of the Year

news

Lady Sheila Thomas Lady Linda Carter Junior Grand Lady Amanda Terry district The work of Lady Thomas and Lady Carter has epitomized the true spirit of Claverism. Their hard work and dedication to the Juniors of Court #121 and the Western States District have been embodied in the work and leadership of Junior Daughter Amanda Terry.

state of texas

Inez Y. Bowman Chapter #2 (Houston, Texas) Attends International Alliance of Catholic Knights Opening Mass in New Orleans, August 1, 2009

Pictured from left to right are Gracious Lady Beverly Green, Faithful Captain; Gracious Lady Marie Pointer, Past Faithful Navigator; Samuel Barnes, President of the International Alliance of Catholic Knights; wife Mrs. Joanna Barnes; Niall Kennedy, Secretary General of the International Alliance of Catholic Knights; Gracious Lady Margie Guilbeaux, Faithful Navigator; Supreme Knight Gene A. Phillips; Gracious Lady Dorothy Allen, Faithful Purser; and Gracious Lady Elsa Phillips, Past National Junior Daughter Counselor. The Mass was celebrated by Most Rev. Joseph Osei-Bonsu of Konongo/Manpong, Ghana, and concelebrant was Most Rev. Joseph Perry, Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago. The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 35 junior division news Message from the Junior Daughter Counselor Diane T. Asberry, National Counselor of Junior Daughters

reetings Clavers, The Junior Daughter Officers for 2009-2011 are: I am delighted to share with you my report, Brianna Batiste: Junior Supreme Lady, Court #151 which highlights information from our Junior Makayla Jones: Junior Vice Supreme Lady, Court #222 National Convention, which took place in Ashlee Jones: Junior National Secretary, Court #138 G Houston, Texas, July 9-12, 2009. Amber Jones: Junior National Treasurer, Court #72 There were 1,157 people in attendance, including 499 Ju- Patience Butler: Junior National Mistress-at-Arms, Court #251 nior Daughters and 269 counselors and chaperones. Seventy- Junior Supreme Knight E. Desmond Taylor, Junior Supreme nine Junior courts were represented. There was much positive Lady Jasmine Chavis, the Junior National Board and Junior feedback about the convention, but, as in all venues of this State/District Presidents are to be commended for an outstand- size, there were some things that need to be improved upon for ing of conducting the meeting and carrying out the busi- the next convention. ness in a professional manner. There was much for all to do. In addition to the talent show and There are many people to thank for an outstanding conven- various contests and competitions, there was a College Fair and tion. Our youth were well prepared for this convention, so I a Vocation Fair in which several orders of priests and nuns were must thank our Juniors for their outstanding behavior, their represented. We also had a presentation by the Buffalo Soldiers. parents, commanders and counselors who prepared them and junior We had three fantastic and educational workshops: Juvenile the chaperones for giving of their time. Obesity and Related Illnesses; Global Warming presentations A convention is truly a team effort. I thank everyone who at-

by some of our Junior Daughters; and the Texas Emerging tended the convention and those individuals who gave of their division Leaders presented a workshop on Being Young, Black and time to make this convention a success. Our Most Worthy Su- Catholic and a rally for our 16 to 18-year-old Juniors. preme Knight, Gene A. Phillips, Sr.; Our Most Esteemed Supreme More than 300 books were collected from the Juniors at- Lady, Geralyn C. Shelvin; members of the National Council and tending the convention. These books will be donated to a Court; Board of Directors; our district/state directors/directresses; Catholic school in the Houston area. judges; committee advisers; special committees; and Emerging Each day of the convention, daily prayer services were held and Leaders. Our sincere thanks to the Knights and Ladies of the State reflections were given by Most Reverend Bishop Joseph Perry, our of Texas who served on the convention planning committees. National Chaplain. Brother Paul Ledet and his liturgical team of As we look ahead to 2010, I would like for you to start making dancers and the choir did an outstanding job in preparing these daily plans to attend your respective district/state Junior Conferences. We services, which seem to set the tone for each day. Our 18th Biennial have asked each district/state to join us in looking at ways to de- Convention closed with Mass, where we had a blessing for our high velop programs and activities to address juvenile obesity and other school graduates and the installation of our 2009-2011 officers. issues that impact our lives and the lives of our family members. The Junior Daughters of St. , Court #109

The Junior Daughters of St. Catherine of Siena, Court #109, attended the 18th Biennial Convention in Houston, Texas. The girls participated in various competitions, such as essay, poetry, court banner and arts/crafts and received participation awards. The Juniors also worked credentials, which was a good learning experience. The Junior Daughters of Court #109 have been busy with community service, working at the St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry and visiting nursing homes to put smiles on the faces of the residents. We will work with Parish Partner cleaning up the community. The girls go with a smile. They enjoy helping out the homeless and needy. Pictured here, from left to right, at Highland Nursing Home are: Allison, Miranda, Mya, Catherine, Natasha, Clarissa, Toni, Serena, and resident Ruby Westside. 36 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org junior division news

Saint James Major Juniors Prichard, Alabama

The Junior Daughters of Saint James Major Court #172 at- tended the 18th Biennial Knights of Peter Claver Junior National Convention in Houston, Texas, July 9-12, 2009. Attending our Saint James Major Council #172 Junior Knights (L-R) Clayton Schnyder, Marcus Irby, Justin Gamblin and Marcodius Irby with Junior Junior National Convention were Junior Daughter Maderia Arm- Commander Cornelius Hall. field, Ashlyn Danzy, Lauren Lipscomb, Jasmine McCaskey, Andrea Thomas, Brooke Thomas, Annette Tinsley, Katherine Tinsley, Am- ber Schnyder and Ruby Spain. Serving as delegates were Junior Grand Lady Brooke Thomas, (the Nomination and Election Com- mittee); Junior Vice Grand Lady Andrea Thomas, (the Credentials Committee); Junior Lauren Lipscomb, (the Steering Committee); and Junior Jasmine McCaskey, (the Social Action Committee). Each Junior Daughter served on a convention committee and gave a verbal and written report at their July meeting. Traveling to Houston with the Junior Daughters as chaperones and mentors were Junior Daughter Counselor Valencia T. Lip- Junior Daughters of St. James Major Court #172 at the Biennial Junior scomb, Grand Lady Constance P. Taylor, Lady Carrie R. Blunt and National Convention in Houston, July 9-12, 2009. Pictured left to right are Lady Deora E. Tinsley. Brooke Thomas, Maderia Armfield, Ashlyn Danzy, Annette Tinsley, Katherine Tinsley, Lauren Lipscomb, Amber Schnyder, Jasmine McCaskey, Andrea The Junior Daughters of Court #172 sponsored several fundraisers Thomas and Ruby Spain. to help defray some of the expenses of the trip to Houston. In April, the Junior Daughters, in conjunction with the Ladies of Court #172,

division sponsored a Fish Fry on Good Friday. In June, the Junior Daughters sponsored a car wash and spaghetti dinner. The Junior Daughters were blessed with a donation from Father Patrick S. Healy, S.S.J., pastor of Saint James Major. The daughters are grateful for the opportunities to junior participate in decision-making processes that will help them gain the knowledge they need to spread the true meaning of Claverism. The Junior Daughters are busy planning upcoming events and fundraisers, including the 2010 Gulf Coast District Junior Confer- ence in Jacksonville, Florida, the 2011 Junior National Convention New Junior Daughter Officers for St. James Major Court #172 are, in New Orleans and the Brown Bag Project/“Feed the Hungry” Na- from left to right, Amber Schnyder, Junior Secretary; Maderia Armfield, tional Project. Junior Vice Grand Lady; and Lauren Lipscomb, Junior Grand Lady. On April 18, 2009, the following Daughters received the Sacra- ment of Confirmation at the Saturday Vigil Mass: Maderia Armfield, the church and parish center. The Junior Knights are led by Com- Lauren Lipscomb, Amber Schnyder and Katherine Tinsley. A beauti- mander Cornelius Hall. ful reception was held in the parish center for Emeritus Archbishop The Junior Knights and Daughters continue to work diligently in Oscar Lipscomb, the celebrant, and the confirmandi. the church. They turn out at all the designated Masses with the Se- In June, graduates were invited to attend the Annual Graduate nior Division, and they serve as lectors, altar servers and youth com- Mass with a reception following in the parish hall. Junior Daugh- mentators. They also are involved in the Youth Ministry and several ters Andrea Thomas and Brooke Thomas graduated from Murphy of the daughters are liturgical dancers. High School in May 2009 with distinction and each received a $300 Special thanks and appreciation to Junior Daughter Counselor scholarship from Saint James Major Alumni Association. Andrea at- Valencia T. Lipscomb, Assistant Junior Daughter Counselor Al- tends Florida A&M and Brooke attends Spellman College. Junior legra Danzy, Past Junior Daughter Counselor Linda G. Thomas, Daughters and Knights who graduated from junior high school and Vice Grand Lady Stephanie Danzy, Grand Lady Constance P. Taylor, were entering high school are Dexter Cook, Lauren Lipscomb, Amber Grand Knight Tyrone Rogers, Deputy Grand Knight Robert Blakely, Schnyder and Christa Sullivan. Commander Cornelius Hall and the entire Senior Division of Council The Junior Knight Division of Council #172 has held three initia- and Court #172 for providing guidance, support and wholesome tions and elected officers. Derrick Merriweather is the new Junior activities to help our Junior Knights and Daughters to make Christian Grand Knight and Clayton Schnyder is the new Junior Deputy Grand choices and promote Claverism. Knight. The division visited senior citizens at Twin Oaks Nursing Home and helped the Council Senior Division clean the grounds of – Reporter, Lady Carrie R. Blunt The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 37

6. In the Knights of Peter Claver, the National Dedicated A lasting legacy Commander’s Award and the Texas Most Outstanding Junior Knight Award have been named after Christopher Pichon II. Family, friends and supporters of the Christopher Pichon II Christopher Pichon II would have graduated from Booker Foundation hosted the Free Community Health Fair in honor T. Washington High School in May 2009, so the first of former Junior Texas State President of the Knights of Peter Health Fair sponsored by his foundation occurred at a very Claver, Inc., Christopher Pichon II. significant time! On June 13, 2009, children ages 5-14 years and adults participated in the Health Fair, which included blood pressure and glucose checks. Several Houston-area vendors were on hand to offer an assortment of services, gifts and health- care information. All participants also received wristbands in Pichon’s honor. The Christopher Pichon II Foundation was named for Christopher Pichon II, a student-athlete who died at Booker T. Washington High School in September 2006 of an unknown heart problem. Due to the impact of his death, and on behalf of other student-athletes, Christopher Pichon II’s name was attached to Gov. Rick Perry’s bill that requires all public schools

to have an automated external defibrillator (AED), as well junior as begin heart screenings for student-athletes in grade

Junior Division National Officers division 2009–2011

The Junior National Officers were installed at the recent Knights of Peter Claver Junior National Convention held in Houston, Texas, at the Westin Hotel. History was made as the two top officers elected come from St. Monica Catholic Church, Junior Branch and Court #151 in Houston, Texas. This is a first for the St. Monica KPC Unit, as well as for the State of Texas. The Junior Daughter Board is made up of members from Houston and one from Chicago, while the Junior Knights Board has three from Louisiana and two from Texas. This KPC organization is to be applauded for the opportunities afforded to these high school students.

The Junior Daughter Officers are Brianna A. Batiste, Junior Supreme Lady (Court #151), Mykala Jones, Junior Vice Supreme Lady (Court #222), Ashlee Jones, Junior Nat’l Secretary (Court #138), Amber Jones, Junior National Treasurer (Court #72) and Patience Butler-Gasper, Mistress-at-Arms (Court #251). The Junior Knight National Officers are E. Desmond Taylor, Junior Supreme Knight (Branch #151), Trevor King, Junior Deputy Supreme Knight (Branch #325), Ignatious Carmouche, Junior National Secretary (Branch #231), Justin Buggage, Junior National Treasurer (Branch #23) and Creighton Guillory, Junior Sergeant-at-Arms (Branch #31). 38 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org junior division news

Community activities Knights of Peter Claver Pierre • We sponsored the annual Male Toiletries and Undergarments Toussaint Branch #278 Drive for the homeless men of our community. Savannah, Georgia • We volunteer at the Inner City Night Shelter and Old Savannah City Mission. • We made lunch for the homeless people in our community. Branch #278 began 2009 with confidence because of the Social activities numerous objectives that we accomplished in 2008. Again this • We attended a Savannah Sand Nats baseball game. year, we had a large attendance at the Gulf Coast District Junior • We went on a fishing trip coordinated by Brother John Conference in Gulfport, Mississippi, in March 2009. Our sisters Gatus of Council #278. of Junior Court #278 traveled with us to the conference. We were • We had a fun day at Six Flags over Georgia along with the indeed happy when our Grand Knight, Joshua Bynes, was elected members of Junior Court #278. Gulf Coast District President. We are committed to expansion and, The members of Branch #278 want to thank our Commander, as a result of our recruitment efforts, we welcome to Branch #278 Wilson, and Assistant Commander, Darrell A. Jordan, Rueben McIntyre, DeQuan Miles and Clarence T. Outler. We are for their commitment and dedication to us. We also thank our always committed to spreading the spirit of Claverism in our parish faithful chaperones Brothers Arthur Barnwell, III, Terry J. Brown, (Resurrection of Our Lord) and community. The 2009 Officers of and Joshua R. Murray. Without them, we would not have been Branch #278 are Grand Knight Joshua Bynes, Deputy Grand Knight able to attend the conference and participate in other activities. Matthew Ginn, Treasurer Tevin Maxwell, Secretary Taray Eady, Inner Guard Malik Walker and Outer Guard Tyrone D. Glover, Jr. Church activities • At church, we are visible in several liturgical ministries. We are happy to say that every male altar server is a member of Branch #278 and the majority of the male members of the Youth Choir are in Branch #278 also. We are lectors and ushers, too.

division • We fulfilled our pledge to Phase II of our Parish Capital Campaign, “Resurrection is Rising,” for our new church. • We assisted with the Capital Campaign Variety Dinner. • The Southern Cross, the Diocese of Savannah newspaper, did junior a feature article on us entitled “Junior Knights of Peter Claver Serve the Community.” We were commended for the work that we do and for putting into action the teaching that “We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers.” • We continue our weekly visits to the sick and shut-ins of our parish. Knights of Peter Claver Junior Branch #278.

Junior Supremes at Senior National Convention

The Junior Division was represented well at the Centennial Celebration in New Orleans. Junior Supreme Knight E. Desmond Taylor, Junior Deputy Supreme Knight Trevor King, Junior National Secretary Ignatious Carmouche, Junior National Treasurer Justin Buggage, Junior National Sergeant-at-Arms Creighton Guillory, Junior Supreme Lady Brianna Batiste and Junior Vice Supreme Lady Mykala Jones attended the Centennial Mass. Also in the procession was Junior Texas State President Cortney Pichon. The Junior Supreme Officers brought greetings to the Commanders and Counselors on Sunday and addressed the entire body on August 3.

Junior Supreme Lady Brianna Batiste and Junior Supreme Knight E. Desmond Taylor attend the Centennial Awards Banquet at the Senior National Convention, 2009. The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 39

Claverism in the State of Texas

2009 Senior Texas State Conference Scholarship Banquet junior division

Junior National and State Officers of Texas attended the 2009 Senior Texas State Conference Scholarship Banquet. These Junior leaders were special guests and honored by the Senior Texas Delegation for their dedication, commitment and service to the Knights of Peter Claver Inc./ Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary.

Junior Texas State Board visits San Antonio Junior Texas State Board visits Crosby

The Junior State Officers of Texas visited San Antonio The Junior State Officers of Texas visited Crosby, Texas, and “turned-out” with Holy Redeemer Unit #35 on August and “turned-out” with St. Unit #98 on 9, 2009. Unit #35 welcomed the Junior Officers with a August 16, 2009. Unit #98 divisions welcomed the Junior reception after Mass. Along with the festivities, the Juniors Officers to attend their meetings, which allowed the Juniors were able to fellowship and discuss ideas for the 2010 Junior to enjoy fellowship and discuss preparations for the 2010 Texas State Conference. Junior Texas State Conference. 40 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org junior division news

Picnic registration by Junior Daughter Courts #31 and #141. Juniors at prayer service.

Louisiana KPC Junior Expansion Picnic division

The KPCLA Junior Division of Louisiana held its annual of the State of Texas, a good time was had by all. Junior Expansion Picnic on August 15, 2009, in Westlake, The picnic began with a prayer service led by the Louisiana

junior Louisiana. The picnic was hosted by Southwest Central Junior State Presidents, Eric Davis and Jasmine Griffin, Committee (SWCC) District Six. Picnic Chairpersons were with their State Board Members. Music was provided by Lady Elena Christy and Brother James A. Coleman Sr. of the Gospel Trio of Branch #31. Father Aaron Melancon, Court and Council #31. With more than 600 Juniors across Louisiana State Chaplain, was guest speaker. Louisiana State the state of Louisiana and 40 visitors from the Junior Division Directress Lady Katie Johnson and Director Brother Harold

Games and activities were led by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Supreme Lady Shelvin and National Lay Board and Past Junior Supreme Knight John Coleman. Member Hilda Wiltz register. The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 41

Deputy Supreme Knight Paul Jones Jr. and Past Director General James Coleman, Juniors at prayer service. along with Knights from the SWCC, prepare southern fried chicken. junior

Narcisse introduced the National Officers of the Senior and Committee chairpersons had activities and games for all, Junior Divisions, which included Supreme Lady Geralyn and the picnic proved to be a great success. In the tradition division Shelvin, Deputy Supreme Knight Paul Jones, Vice Supreme of Louisiana, the picnic served southern fried chicken and Lady Yvonne Jackson, Director General Tilmon King, fries, hot from the pot, prepared by the SWCC members. National Lay Board Members George Williams and Hilda With approximately 50 non-Juniors in attendance, the Junior Wiltz, Louisiana State Deputy Michelle Jackson, Immediate Division of Louisiana will be holding several initiations. Past Director General James A. Coleman Sr., Faithful The Louisiana Southwest Central Committee District Six Supreme Purser Thomas Shelvin, Junior Supreme Knight thanked all in attendance and announced that the SWCC Desmond Taylor, Junior Deputy Supreme Knight Trevor King District Six will host the Louisiana Junior State Conference and Junior National Sergeant- at-Arms Creighton Guillory. in 2010.

Louisiana Junior state officers lead a prayer service. 4242 The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | www.kofpc.org 2008-2010 National Council and Court Board of Directors

Knights of Peter Mr. George J. Williams Lay Board Member Mr. James Ellis Claver 828 Latiolais Dr State Deputy of Texas P. O. Box 1267 7702 Chasecreek Dr. Mr. Gene A. Phillips, Sr. Breaux Bridge, LA 70517 Missouri City, TX 77489 Supreme Knight B: 337-291-8364 H: 281-437-2136 22911 Palomino Creek Court Email: [email protected] B: 713-824-3521 Tomball, TX 77375-7198 E-mail: [email protected] H: 281-370-1757 Mr. Tilmon D. King Fax: 281-251-7920 Director General Junior Knights E-mail: [email protected] 3713 Edgewood Court Mr. Anderson F. Shaw Avondale, LA 7094 District Deputy, Western States Mr. Paul Jones, Jr. H: 504-436-3066 4115 Don Felipe Drive Deputy Supreme Knight B: 504-452-4109 Los Angeles, CA 90008-4206 3123 Country Club Rd. Fax: 504-436-3954 H: 323-293-6904 Lake Charles, LA 70605 E-mail: [email protected] B: 323-777-2106 H: 337-477-8565 Fax: 323- 934-8039 Fax: 337-477-8565 Most Rev. Joseph N. Perry Email: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] National Chaplain Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago Mr. Howard Crawford Mr. James Kelley Terry Post Office Box 733 District Deputy, Northern States National Secretary South Holland, IL 60473-0733 1733 Patricia Lane P. O. Box 56545 B: 708-339-2474 Flossmoor, IL 60422-2057 national council national New Orleans, LA 70156 Fax: 708-339-2477 H: 708-957-2080 H: 504-913-2110 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 708-957-2081 B: 504-587-9705 Email: [email protected] Fax: 504-586-9178 Mr. Arthur C. McFarland E-mail: [email protected] Past Supreme Knight Mr. Athanase J. Jones, Jr. P. O. Box 80609 District Deputy, Gulf Coast Charleston, SC 29416-0609 11065 Castlemain Circle E 2008-2010 2008-2010 Mr. Philip B. Stiell National Treasurer H: 843-577-4889 Jacksonville, FL 32256-2894 P. O. Box 7827 B: 843-763-3900 H: 904-997-0508 Spanish Fort, AL 36577 Fax: 843-763-5347 (B) Fax: 904-565-2317 H: 251-621-1009 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Mr. Garry Bostick Mr. James A. Neal Mr. Omar K. Mason District Deputy, Central States Supreme Navigator National Advocate 1804 N.W. 176th Place Fourth Degree, KPC 5219 Bathgate Lane Edmond, OK 73012 14210 Torrey Village Drive Houston, TX 77084 H: 405-341-1033 Houston, TX 77014 H: 281-858-1680 B: 405-736-2691 H: 281-440-9665 B: 713-652-2525 E-mail: [email protected] B: 713-893-1593 Fax: 281-858-1680 Fax: 281-893-1593 E-mail: [email protected] Mr. Oscar J. Benoit E-mail: [email protected] State Deputy of Louisiana 201 Rue Des Etoiles Carencro, LA 70520 H: 337-886-8842 E-mail: [email protected] The Claverite | Winter Issue 2009-10 | wwwwww.kofpc.org.kofpc.org 4343 2008-2010 National Council and Court Board of Directors

Knights of Peter Mrs. Diane T. Asberry Fax: 303-400-8714 National Counselor Junior Daughters E-mail: [email protected] Claver, Ladies Auxiliary 8253 S. East End Chicago, IL 60617-1739 Mrs. Nan Arceneaux Mrs. Geralyn C. Shelvin H: 773-734-3961 State Deputy of Texas Supreme Lady Fax: 773-734-3962 9203 Cornett Drive 121 Rimwood Ave E-mail: [email protected] Houston, TX 77064-7601 Lafayette, LA 70501-6559 H: 713-937-3236 H: 337-232-8510 Mrs. Mary L. Briers B: 281-405-4064 B: 337-706-3427 Past Supreme Lady E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 337-232-8463 4360 Sunnybrook Dr. E-mail: [email protected] Montgomery, AL 36108-5042 Mrs. E. Annetta Wilson H: 334-281-7316 District Deputy, Northern States Fax: 334-288-9668 4241 West 21st Place

Ms. Yvonne H. Jackson 2008-2010 Vice Supreme Lady E-mail: [email protected] Chicago, IL 60623 8921 Shaddy Bluff Dr. H: 773-521-4033 Baton Rouge, LA 70818-4520 Mrs. Michelle C. Jackson B: 773-542-8634 H: 225-261-0959 State Deputy of Louisiana Fax: 773-542-9817 B: 225-344-0315 2316 13th Street E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 225-346-1317 Lake Charles, LA 70601

Email: [email protected] H: 337-474-6120 Mrs. Audrey B. Woods national court B: 337-437-9132 or Supreme Navigator Ms. DeLise Coleman 1-800-752-6706 Ext. 132 Ladies of Grace National Secretary Fax: 337-478-7610 5435 Providence Place 2092 Mercer Ave E-mail: [email protected] New Orleans, LA 70126 College Park, GA 30337 H: 504-304-7677 H: 404-765-9056 Ms. Micaela LeBlanc Email: [email protected] Fax: 678-306-0668 District Deputy, Western States E-mail: [email protected] 13428 Maxella Avenue, #185 Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 Wishing you a Ms. Melissa Sias H: 1-888-KPC-LAWS Blessed Christmas National Treasurer B: 310-646-1245 124 Castle Row Fax: 310-568-9157 and Joyous New Year! Lafayette, LA 70506 E-mail: [email protected] H: 337-277-6929 – KPC/KPCLA Board Fax: 337-989-8182 Mrs. Gwendolyn Lewis of Drectors E-mail: [email protected] District Deputy, Gulf Coast 518 Rawls Ave. Ms. Hilda Wiltz Prichard, AL 36610-2049 Lay Board Member H: 251-452-2735 P. O. Box 752 Fax: 251-441-6486 Rayne, LA 70578-0752 E-mail: [email protected] H: 337-393-2080 B: 337-739-7304 Mrs. Janice M. Gray E-mail: [email protected] District Deputy, Central States 20668 E. Hamilton Circle Aurora, CO 80013 H: 303-400-8713 B: 720-493-6633 NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 135 MIDLAND, MI 48640

An Order that Involves Other Benefits Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. the Whole Family • Masses for all deceased members each Sunday of the year ur social program includes • Frequent Holy Communion in a body educational, recreational and athletic activities, • Uniformed participation in religious including dances, picnics, ceremonies O banquets, athletic events, • Regular financial contributions to fundraising projects and workshops. In religious orders, parishes, deserving addition to the Knights, the activities of charities, worthy causes, and national the Ladies Auxiliary and Junior Division organizations such as the NAACP, ensure that the whole family has a place National Urban League, United Negro in the Order. College Fund and National Kidney Foundation • Annual blessings of the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI Your Invitation to Catholic Action

For more information he state, district, and national meetings offer opportunities to become more On how to become a member, visit T involved, take advantage of cultural op- www.kofpc.org or contact the Knights of portunities and become acquainted with fellow Peter Claver headquarters at: Catholics outside of your local area. The democratic process is assured all members by frequent rota- 1825 Orleans Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70116-2894 tion of officers on all levels. National and district Office: (504) 821-4225 officers are elected biennially and local officers are FAX: (504) 821-4253 elected annually. Email: [email protected] www.kofpc.org

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