KNIGHTS of PETER CLAVER, LADIES AUXILIARY 2006- 2008 BOARD of DIRECTORS - NATIONAL COURT Th E

THE

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FOR ADDRESS CHANGE E Gene A. Phillips Sr. Geralyn C. Shelvin Moving? Please notify us four 15th Supreme Knight 12th Supreme Lady Weeks in advance. New Address

Cut your old address label from Name magazine cover and attach to this Address R coupon. Fill in your address at right, City/State/Zip mail to: Council # Court # CLAVERITE MAGAZINE Insurance Certificate # 1825 Orleans Avenue I New Orleans, Louisiana 70116-2825

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED T Volumes 87-90 Summer/Winter Issue 2006/2007 E

KNIGHTS OF PETER CLAVER, LADIES AUXILIARY 2006- 2008 BOARD OF DIRECTORS - NATIONAL COURT Th e

CLAVERITE Mrs. Geralyn C. Shelvin Mrs. Diane T. Asberry Ms. Loretta Richardson Supreme Lady Nat’l. Counselor Jr. Daughters District Deputy of Central States 121 Rimwood Ave 8253 S. East End 681 South Fulton Street A Catholic fraternal magazine published by: Lafayette, LA 70501-6559 Chicago, IL 60617-1739 Denver, CO 80247-1924 Th e National Council H: 337-232-8510 H: 773-734-3961 H: 303- 344-8728 B: 337-261-0734 Ext 232 Fax: 773-734-3962 Fax: 303-343-3129 Knights of Peter Claver Fax: 337-232-8463 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] & [email protected] National Court Mrs. Mary L. Briers Mrs. Nan Arceneaux Ms. Yvonne H. Jackson Past Supreme Lady State Deputy of Texas Knights of Peter Claver Vice Supreme Lady 4360 Sunnybrook Dr. 9203 Cornett Drive Ladies Auxiliary 8921 Shady Bluff Dr. Montgomery, AL 36108-5042 Houston, TX 77064-7601 Baton Rouge, LA 70818-4520 H: 334-281-7316 H: 713- 937-3236 H: 225-261-0959 Fax: 334-288-9668 B: 281-405-4064 Approbation B: 225-928-9939 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 225-928-7388 [email protected] [email protected] Email: [email protected] Mrs. Cynthia Lyons-Jackson Mrs. E. Annetta Wilson Th e Most Reverend Alfred C. Hughes [email protected] State Deputy of Louisiana District Deputy of Northern States Archbishop of New Orleans 103 Rain Tree Trail 4241 West 21st Place Ms. DeLise Coleman Lafayette, LA 70507-3711 Chicago, IL 60623 National Secretary H: 337- 232-5110 H: 773-521-4033 Gene A. Phillips, Sr., Supreme Knight 2092 Mercer Ave B: 337- 235-8523 B: 773-542-8634 College Park, GA 30337 Fax: 337-235-8523 Fax: 773-542-9817 Geralyn C. Shelvin, Supreme Lady H: 404-765-9056 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: H. Bronco Henderson, Executive Director Fax: 678-306-0668 [email protected] [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Debra A. Frazier, Claverite Coordinator Ms. Micaela LeBlanc Ms. Melissa Sias District Deputy of Western States Mrs. Michelle C. Jackson National Treasurer 13428 Maxella Avenue, #185 Supreme Navigator 124 Castle Row Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 Fourth Degree, Ladies of Grace THE KNIGHTS OF PETER CLAVER th Lafayette, LA 70506 H: 1-888-KPC-LAWS 2316 13 Street Founded in Mobile, Alabama in 1909 H: 337-989-8182 B: 310-646-1245 Lake Charles, LA 70601 Headquarters in New Orleans, Louisiana Fax: 337-989-8182 Fax: 310-568-9157 H: 337-474-6120 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: B: 800-752-6706 Ext 132 [email protected] [email protected] Fax: 337-478-7610 [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Ms. Hilda Wiltz [email protected] Lay Board Member Mrs. Gwendolyn Lewis P. O. Box 752 District Deputy of Gulf Coast Rayne, LA 70578-0752 518 Rawls Ave. H: 337-393-2080 Prichard, AL 36610-2049 B: 337-739-7304 H: 251-452-2735 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 251-441-6486 All items intended for publications inTh e [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Claverite must be submitted by:

April 10th for Summer Issue September 10th for Winter Issue “TRUST IN GOD” our Pass Word “ONWARD” is our War Cry

2 51 KNIGHTS OF PETER CLAVER Knights of Peter Claver 2006 - 2008 NATIONAL COUNCIL - BOARD OF DIRECTORS Established November 7, 1909 Incorporated July 12, 1911 in Mobile, Alabama

Mr. Gene A. Phillips, Sr. Mr. James A. Coleman, Sr. Mr. Anderson F. Shaw “Onward” is our “Trust in God” War Cry our Pass Word Supreme Knight Director General Jr. Knights District Deputy of Western States 22911 Palomino Creek Court 22911 Palomino Creek Court 701 Deidre Road 4115 Don Felipe Drive Offi ce of Tomball, Texas 77375-7198 MR. GENE A. PHILLIPS, SR. Home: 281-370-1757 Fax: 281-251-7920 Tomball, TX 77375-7198 Moss Bluff, LA 70611 Los Angeles, CA 90008-4206 Email: [email protected] H: 281-370-1757 H: 337- 855-6622 H: 323- 293-6904 Supreme Knight Fax: 281—251-7920 Fax: 337- 436-7614 B: 323- 777-2106 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 323- 934-8039 Email: [email protected] Mr. Paul Jones, Jr. Most Rev. Joseph N. Perry Fraternal Greetings: Deputy Supreme Knight National Chaplain 3123 Country Club Rd. Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago Mr. Howard Crawford Lake Charles, LA 70605 Post Office Box 733 District Deputy of Northern States I would like to wish each of you and your family a healthy and prosperous New Year. It is hard to believe that we H: 337-477-8565 South Holland, IL 60473-0733 1733 Patricia Lane have completed another year. Th e Knights of Peter Claver, Inc.’s journey over the last 98 years has left a legacy of Fax: 337-477-8565 B: 708- 339-2474 Flossmoor, IL 60422-2057 unending works of support and charity for the Catholic community and the world. God’s love has guided us and our Fax: 708- 339-2477 E-mail: [email protected] H: 708-957-2080 organization to a blessed and successful 98 years of existence. We will celebrate our 100th anniversary in the year of E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 708- 957-2081 Mr. James Kelley Terry Email: [email protected] 2009. I ask that you keep us in your prayers as we prepare for this celebration. National Secretary Mr. Arthur C. McFarland P. O. Box 56545 Past Supreme Knight Th e Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. has experienced many challenges over the last year and a half. With your prayers and P. O. Box 80609 New Orleans, LA 70156 Mr. Leonard V. Stiell support, some of the challenges have been successfully dealt with and accomplished. Th e remainder of our journey H: 504-218-7610 Charleston, S.C. 29416-0609 District Deputy of Gulf Coast B: 504-587-9705 H: 843-577-4889 557 Farrell Street will not be an easy one, but we will continue to strive to ensure that it will be a productive one for the benefi t of the Fax: 504-586-9178 B: 843-763-3900 Mobile, AL 36607-1351 membership and enhancement of the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 843-763-5347 (B) H: 251-471-3741 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 251- 478-8196 As all of you are aware, we are an insurance company and must adhere to the requirements set forth by the Alabama Mr. Philip B. Stiell E-mail: [email protected] National Treasurer Mr. David L. Moore Department of Insurance. Th e State of Alabama is our domicile state for insurance or the state where we are chartered. P. O. Box 7827 District Deputy of Central States Currently the Organization is licensed to off er our members insurance in the following states: Alabama, Louisiana, Spanish Fort, AL 36577 584 Shofner Mr. Harry Beevers Maryland, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia and the District of Columbia. We are Memphis, TN 38109 H: 251-621-1009 Supreme Navigator investigating the prospect of off ering insurance to the other 25 states in which our memberships reside. Th e Knights E-mail: [email protected] H: 901-332-1352 Fourth Degree, KPC Fax: 901-332-6619 1548 Haydel Drive of Peter Claver have been attempting to secure licenses for many years. Mr. Vincent Wilkins, Jr. E-mail: [email protected] Marrero, LA 70072-3531 National Advocate H: 504- 347-6628 Th e State of Alabama Department of Insurance Update 1408 Canadian Geese Court Mr. Oscar J. Benoit E-mail: [email protected] Upper Marlboro, MD 20774-7062 State Deputy of Louisiana H: 301-249-7711 201 Rue Des Etoiles Supervision - In July 2006 the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. was placed under informal supervision by the Alabama Fax: 301-218-9327 Carencro, LA 70520 Mr. H. Bronco Henderson Department of Insurance. In September 2006, the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. was put under an Order of Supervision. E-mail: [email protected] H: 337-886-8842 Executive Director Th e Order of Supervision was extended in March 2007. As of September 26, 2007 we are no longer under supervision E-mail:[email protected] 1825 Orleans Avenue by the Alabama Department of Insurance. Th is was a major challenge that we have overcome. Mr. George J. Williams New Orleans, LA 70116-2825 Lay Board Member Mr. James Ellis B: 504-821-4225 828 Latiolais Dr State Deputy of Texas Fax: 504- 821-4253 Full Scope Examination of the Alabama Department of Insurance as of December 31, 2006 - Th is examination has P. O. Box 1267 7702 Chasecreek Dr. E-mail: [email protected] been completed. Once the document is fi led, it will become a public document of record. Th ere are recommendations Missouri City, TX 77489 Breaux Bridge, LA 70517 from the Alabama Department of Insurance. We are working to correct these recommendations. B: 337-291-8364 H: 281-437-2136 Fax: 337-332-5331 B: 713 824-3521 Email:[email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Local Units - Local Units are perceived as agents because they receive the dues money from the members. Th is means that Local Units must follow all procedures, especially those that deal with fi nances. Th e Constitution and By-laws

of Our Noble Order provide guidelines: Local Units must be sure that ALL FUNDS are received, documented by

the Financial Secretary and turned over to the Treasurer for deposit. Th is procedure insures the accountability of our organization. If your ﬁ nancial oﬃ cers (Treasurer and Financial Secretary) are not bonded, it’s imperative that your Unit bond them regardless as to the amount of money your Unit has. Th is will provide a safeguard for your Unit and the Organization

50 3 Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. Asset Allocation for the Year Ending December 31, 2007

• 67% Taxable Fixed Income $2,129, 098.64 Our affi liates include, CPA fi rms, a bank, Actuaries, and may also include non-fi nancial companies. Th e type of • 14% Cash and Equivalent $448, 512.73 information that may be disclosed may include your name, address, Social Security number, claims history, payment • 13% Domestic Equities $401, 108.88 history, underwriting profi le and similar data. • 6% Preferred Stock $199, 615.00 • 100% Total Asset Value $ 3,178, 335.25 Special notice regarding consumer reports

Expansion - I urge each member to reach out and invite a new member to join the Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies We do not give consumer reporting agencies any information about you. Auxiliary. Let us promote the positive actions that our units are involved in. We, as an organization must continue Any consumer reporting agency that gathers information about you may share this information with others who are to grow. Expansion continues to be a dominant factor for the future of Our Noble Order. I, along with the State/ authorized to use consumer reports by the Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act or by applicable state credit reporting District Deputies, cannot stress enough of how important it is to bring in new members. Th e best recruiters are you, the members. acts. You may obtain a copy of your consumer report by contacting the consumer reporting agency directly.

How to tell us not to share this information with our affi liated companies: Membership Count as of January 1, 2008 If you prefer that we not share this information with our affi liated companies, you may direct us not to share this District Knights Ladies Junior Boys Junior Girls District Total information by doing the following: Central 358 642 31 85 1116 Gulf Coast 681 1274 110 226 2291 • call us at (504) -821-4225 Louisiana 2208 3258 303 589 6358 • contact us in writing at 1825 Orleans Ave New Orleans LA 70116 Northern 910 2033 94 253 3290 How we protect information Texas 948 1775 302 423 3448 We require all our employees to protect the confi dentiality of your information. Employees may access information Western 360 913 26 103 1402 only when appropriate-for example, to administer a service. To further protect your privacy, we also maintain physical, Total Membership 5465 9895 866 1679 17905 electronic and procedural safeguards within the company that comply with all applicable laws. I would like to welcome the following Archbishops, Bishops and Msgr. who were recently initiated and exemplifi ed into our Organization: Dispute resolution Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to our privacy policy, or the breach thereof, shall be settled by Archbishop Raymond L. Burke - Archdiocese of St. Louis, MO arbitration in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association, with our National Advocate and Archbishop George H. Niederrauer PhD - Archdiocese of San Francisco, CA judgment upon the award rendered by the arbitrator(s) may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof. Bishop Allen Vigneron - Diocese of Oakland, CA Bishop Robert Finn - Diocese of Kansas City, MO Our policy is a pledge – we pledge to protect your information! Bishop Michael Jarrell - Diocese of Lafayette, LA We pledge to you, our valued member, that the information you have provided us to obtain appropriate insurance Msgr. Henry Breier - Archdiocese of St. Louis, MO coverage will be used for just that purpose and that purpose only. We will not share such information with nonaffi liated third parties. An invitation has been extended to Bishop Shelton Joseph Fabre of the Diocese of New Orleans and Archbishop Henry J. Mansell of the Archdiocese of Hartford, Connecticut.

Our Organization is composed of many Divisions:

Ladies Auxiliary Division – Th e Ladies Auxiliary Division enhances and supports every aspect of our Organization. Th ey develop and promote projects that encompass charity, scholarship, leadership, vocation, community, church, family and project high standards of Christian life.

Junior Division – Our Junior Division is an important blood line to our organization. Let us support the Commanders and Counselors eff orts in recruiting and retaining the youth. Our organization off ers many benefi ts and activities that can attract the youth locally, state and nationally. Examples: scholarships, insurance benefi ts, leadership training, competitive activities, a social support system and vocational encouragement. Please take the time to talk to our young people and invite them and pray for them that they may accept God’s call. For those Juniors that are eligible to transfer, I strongly encourage and welcome them to transfer to the Senior Division. Desmond Taylor, Junior Supreme Knight and Jasmine Chavis, Junior Supreme Lady were elected as the leaders of the Junior Division. Th ey have shown exceptional leadership since their election. 4 49 Emerging Leaders - We have a very important and energized group of members in our organization. Th e Emerging The Dept of Insurance requires us to notify all members with Insurance of Leaders’ Group who are young adults: ages 18-35. Th ey bring new and inventive ideas, physical involvement, creativity, their privacy rights. Below is the Knights of Peter Claver Privacy Policy. momentum and commitment as members of our organization. Th ey have projects that they are involved in that supports and enhance our organization.

KnightsK n i g ofh t sPeter o f P eClavert e r C l a v e r Fourth Degree Knights and Ladies of Grace is the Meritorious Division and they develop and promote ideas and Established November 7, 1909 Incorporated July 12, 1911 in Mobile, Alabama projects that help to elevate our organization to a high level of respect.

National Offi ce Staff - It has been a long and tiring year for the National Offi ce Staff , but they remained committed “Onward” is our “Trust in God” War Cry our Pass Word to helping the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. conquer the obstacles placed before them. Th ey are a fantastic group of 1825 Orleans Ave people. We are blessed to have them. New Orleans, LA 70116 (504)821-4225 FAX (504)821-4253 2008 Senior National Convention will be held July 25-31, 2008 in Jacksonville, Florida at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. KNIGHTS OF PETER CLAVER MEMBER PRIVACY NOTICE Th e room rates are $109.00 per night plus tax for Single, Double, Triple and Quadruple occupancy. FOR INFORMATION ONLY NO ACTION REQUIRED 2009 Senior National Convention (100 Year Celebration) will take place in New Orleans, LA July 31, 2009 – August 6, 2009. All activities will take place in New Orleans. We respect your right to privacy, and maintain the confi dentiality of any nonpublic personal information that we obtain. We treat all your personal information in a confi dential manner. 2009 Junior National Convention will be held at the Westin Galleria Hotel in Houston Texas. Th e dates will be July 9-12, 2009. Th e room rates are $129.00 per night plus tax. We are required to inform you that you have the right to prevent us from sharing nonpublic personal information about you with a nonaffi liated third party for any purpose that is not specifi cally authorized by law. Your right to 2009 International Alliance of Catholic Knights – Th e Knights of Peter Claver is hosting the International Alliance prevent us from sharing nonpublic personal information about you with a nonaffi liated third party for a purpose that of Catholic Knights Conference. July 19-24, 2009. We are a member of this Organization and it is our time to host is not specifi cally authorized by law is called your right to “opt out” of such information sharing. the conference.

We are committed to providing you the best service while earning your trust and protecting the privacy of your 2009 Constitution/By-Laws Revision – Our Constitution /Bylaws will come up for revision in 2009. Please begin information. We understand and respect the fact that you may wish to keep your personal information confi dential. intense study and examination of our existing Constitution/By-Laws and begin to prepare for resolutions you may wish to submit in 2009. Collection of your information We do not collect nonpublic personal fi nancial information about you. Public Relations Service Group - I want to thank everyone who volunteered to serve on the Public Relations Service Group. I am very appreciative that so many members were willing to donate their talent and service to promote Information from applications: Th is is information you give us on applications and other forms, by phone or online the outstanding accomplishments of the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. Th e Public Relation Service Group has been (if applicable). Th is information may includes your name, address, telephone number, drivers license number, Social offi cially appointed. Th ere were 56 Clavers who volunteered to work with this group that represent every District and Security number, date of birth, gender, marital status. State of our Organization. Th e chairpersons are Brother Athanase J. Jones, Jr. and Lady DeLise Coleman.

Information maintenance and disclosure Th e Group’s mission is as follow: We do not send information about you to third parties without your consent. However, any time disclosure is “Th e KPC Public Relations Services Group supports the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. by enhancing the Order’s necessary for the conduct of our business or required by law, we may send some or all of the information to third identity and increasing knowledge of its unique characteristic of being a fraternal organization that caters to parties without your consent. For example, we may give information to: the entire family. Th e Group will provide the service, infrastructure and leadership necessary to advance and promote the Order’s mission of service to the Holy Roman Catholic Church and the community at large. Th e • state insurance departments, for their regulation of our business Group will accomplish this through well-planned and executed communications and promotional events to • other government authorities internal and external audiences.” • your representative • organizations that perform underwriting or claim investigations Website - Looking for a source displaying a wealth of information on our Order, visit our website at www.kofpc.org. • another insurance company to which you have applied for a policy or submitted a claim I urge the membership to make use of this valuable tool. Many individuals spend much time to provide this service • insurance support agencies and law enforcement agencies to Our Noble Order. Let’s make use of it. • Any other third party, as permitted or required by law. Although I have not been able to accept every invitation, I would like to thank the many Units for their We may also disclose information about you for audit purposes. We will not share your information with non-aﬃ liated thoughtfulness in inviting me. third parties for the purpose of marketing their products or services. 48 5

I have been blessed and fortunate to have attended the following events: DATE ACTIVITY PLACE January 13, 2007 Install Officers Cn. & Ct. 238 Houston, TX M E M O R I U M S E C T I O N January 13, 2007 Install Officers Cn. & Ct. 138 Houston, TX January 14, 2007 Install Officers Cn. & Ct. 231 Houston, TX Th e Claver Prayer January 14, 2007 Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration Houston, TX at St. Peter the Apostle January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2006 January 20, 2007 4th Degree Assembly #2 Ball Houston, Texas God, our Heavenly Father, January 25-28, 2007 Executive board Meeting New Orleans, 2007 You have given us life February 10, 2007 HICC Mardi Gras Ball, St. Peter Claver Houston, TX In Memory of all the deceased Brothers and Sisters in the Th rough the Death and Resurrection Church Hall units from the Western States District, Northern States of Your Beloved Son, Jesus Christ; February 24, 2007 Junior TSC Board Meeting, St. Francis of District, Central States District, Gulf Coast States District, Jesus, our Saving Lord, Assisi Church Hall Houston, TX March 2-4, 2007 Gulf Coast Junior Conference Atlanta, GA State of Texas and the State of Louisiana, may the souls of You have given us life through the Death March 9-11 2007 Texas Junior State Conference Houston, Texas all the brothers and sisters in Claverism rest in peace. and Resurrection of March 23-25, 2007 Louisiana Junior State Lafayette, LA Your Beloved Son, Jesus Christ; Conference Jesus, our Saving Lord, March 30-April 1, 2007 Establishment Council and Ct. Court # San Diego, CA St. Peter Claver Pray for us! You came into a world darkened by man’s April 8, 2007 Easter Turn-out Austin, TX sin and gave it light through your Holy Cross # 284 January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007 April 13, 2007 Initiation & Exemplification of Archbishop teachings; Holy Spirit, Th e Breath of God Raymond L. Burke, Bishop Robert W. Finn St. Louis, MO within us, You guide and enlighten us and Msgr. Henry Brier In Memory of all the deceased Brothers and Sisters in the and give us the strength of our conviction; April 13-15, 2007 Central States District Conference St. Louis, MO units from the Western States District, Northern States Saint Peter Clear who became April 19, -22, 2007 Executive Board Meeting New Orleans, LA an example for us, April 26, 2007 Initiation & Exemplification of District, Central States District, Gulf Coast District, State Archbishop Niederaiuer of San Francisco San Francisco, CA of Texas and the State of Louisiana, may the souls of all the You showed us the Love of God, the Light of Christ, and Th e Strength of the Holy and Bishop Vigneron of Oakland brothers and sisters in Claverism rest in peace. April 27-29, 2007 Northern States District Indianapolis, IN Spirit; We pray now that all we say Conference and do, in your honor, be a continuation April 27-29, 2007 Western States District San Francisco, CA of your work here on earth. Conference May 4-5, 2007 Texas State Senior Conference San Antonio, TX May 11-12, 2007 Meeting New Orleans, LA St. Peter Claver, Pray for Us May 18- May 20, 2007 Initiation Council #335 and Hotel visitation Jacksonville , FL for 2008 National Convention May 26, 2007 Initiation & Exemplification of Lafayette, LA Bishop Michael Jarrell June 17-18, 2007 Alabama Department of Montgomery, AL Insurance Meeting June 24, 2007 Board Meeting for Jr. TSC, J. D. Walker Baytown, TX Park, Father Fisher Robinson, Jr. S.V.D. July 4-8, 2007 17th Junior National Convention Los Angeles, CA July 12-15, 2007 National Black Catholic Buffalo, NY Congress July 20-26, 2007 92nd National Convention Dearborn, MI August 18, 2007 Legend’s Dinner, Jr. Division #72 Houston, TX August 25, 2008 Quiz Bowl Celebration, Junior. Daughters Parks , LA August 26, 2007 St. Catherine of Sienna Chapter 16 annual New Iberia, LA Luncheon Sunrise: August 12, 1929 Sunset: October 18, 2007 September 8, 2007 New Orleans Intercity St. Peter Claver New Orleans, LA Celebration (Excerpts from “in a Word”- a Publication of the Society of the Divine Word, Southern Province) September 9, 2007 Houston Intercity St. Peter claver Houston, TX Celebration Father Fisher Robinson, Jr. S.V.D., a Divine Word missionary for almost 65 years died October 18, 2007. He had September 29, 2007 Assemble and Ladies of Grace Anniversary Opelousas, LA lived with this Divine Word Community at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Los Angeles since, 1989. October 6, 2007 Texas State Scholarship Banquet Beaumont, TX October 18, 2007 National Black Catholic Congress Board Baltimore , MD Fr. Robinson was born in Abbeville, Louisiana. He entered the Society of the Divine Word in Bay St. Louis, Meeting Mississippi in 1943, pronounced his ﬁ rst vows in 1950, in Techny, Illinois and was ordained a Priest on May 1, 1958, October 19, 2007 Melanie Green Charity Function Council Houston, TX in Bay St. Louis. He would have celebrated his 50th Jubilee as a priest next May. and Court 248 He dedicated himself to service in both his community and the great Archdiocese. He was a member of the Los October 26, 2007 Missionaries of St. Paul Annual Luncheon Houston, TX Angeles Council of Priests, Archdiocesan Board of Consultors, Board of Ecumenical Center for Black Church Studies, November 10, 2007 Jr. Division 139 black and White Ball Houston, TX th was a founding member of the Black Lay Catholic Ministry and an active member of the 4th Degree Knights and November 10, 2007 25 . Anniversary Council and Court 238 Houston, TX Ladies of Peter Claver. He was one of the celebrants at the National Convention’s daily masses for the Knights of Peter November 15-24, 2007 International Alliance if Catholic Knights Abuja, Nigeria Africa December 7-9, 2007 National Office Visitation New Orleans, LA Claver. Father Fisher’s warm smile will truly be missed. His spirit will always live on as a (shining) Knight of Peter December 8, 2007 Investment Meeting Claver. 6 47 Th e 2007 Th omas R. Lee Scholarship Winners: I have attended additional events, wakes and funeral services of our members.

I attended the 22nd International Alliance of Catholic Knights in Abuja, Nigeria Africa. Th e following issues were acted upon for our consideration:

POST CONFERENCE STATEMENT

1. Since not enough attention is given to the defense of the rights of women; there should be a more concerted eﬀ ort to promote the solidarity and welfare of our women folk in Africa.

2. As the incidence of migration, refugees and the tragic loss of life has increased in recent years there should Malcolm C. Upshaw is a graduate of St. Joseph Highh SSchool h l iin ChiChicago, IL. He is the son of Ms. Hattie R. Upshaw. be coordinated advocacy directed towards resolving the matter by the authorities concerned. Malcolm is a Freshman at Rockford College in Rockford, Illinois. 3. Th e catholic Faith needs to be preserved and strengthened to resist any attempt on the part of adversaries to destabilize it and discredit its adherents.

4. More attention should be given to “Life” issues and the prevention of abortion, euthanasia and other threats to the Christian way of life.

5. Catholic Knights ought to use their many and precious God-given gifts for the beneﬁ t of their communities and their own spiritual development.

Th e newly elected offi cers of the International Alliance Catholic Knights for the year 2007-2009 are as follow: Roxanee M. Pogue, is a graduate of West Catholichl High h School h l in Philadelphia, PA, She is the daughter of Mrs. Denise Pogue and the late Mr. Connie Pogue. Roxanne is a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania in • Bro. Samuel K. Barnes of Ghana was installed as President Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. • Bro. John Starmans of Australia as Deputy President • Bishop Joseph Osei-Bonsu of Ghana as International Chaplain. 2007 Willie Polk, Jr. Scholarship Winners: • Bro. Niall M. Kennedy of Ireland was re-elected as Secretary General State of Lousiana Northern States District I thank all of you for your support, suggestions, cooperation, confi dence and prayers throughout the year of 2007 for Hannah C. Benoit Brianna Anderson the organization and our leaders. Let us all become Disciples of Christ and Soldiers of St. Peter Claver. Tyra Flotte Tekara Gainey Chasity C. Gougisha Jennifer Karikari Yours in Claverism, Keyley N. Mable Kimberly Parker Brooks Malbrough Christopher Lamb Gene A. Phillips, Sr. Christina Richardson Nelson B. Boutte, Jr. Western States District Gene A. Phillips, Sr. Ashlee A. Harper 15th Supreme Knight State of Texas Donovan Blount J’nee N. Adams Courtney Crabtree Gulf Coast District Jasmine Hearn Camron Daffi n Ebony Johnson Lionel Saucier Redell E. Terry Sheryl Carpenter

Central States District Anthony Jones Devin Myer-Putman

46 7 Knights of Peter Claver 2007 Winners: CONGRATULATIONS! Gold Medal Recipients: Council of the Year: Grand Lady of the Year: Offi ce of _ t w | x á T â å | Ä | t Ü ç Geralyn C. Shelvin Knight Louis Carrier, Jr. Wilfred B. Ricard, Cn#116 Brother Daniel Francis Cn#76 St. Benedict the Abbot Cn#248 Baton Rouge, LA Lady Lois Washington, Ct#52 Supreme Lady Houston, TX 121 Rimwood Avenue Court of the Year: Financial Secretary of Year: Lafayette, Louisiana 70501-6559 Gracious Lady Mary Ann Angelle St. Aubry, Court #119 Lady Dawn Brinston Home: (337) 232-8510 Fax: (337) 232-8463 St. Benedict de Moor Ct #72 Maringouin, LA Transfi guration Court #220 Email: [email protected] Houston, TX Los Angeles, CA Greetings to Our Claver Family: Grand Knight of the Year: Knight Alfred Adams It is truly an honor to address you the membership in the fi rst issue of THE CLAVERITE post hurricanes Katrina and Rita. St. Michael, Council #65 Th rough these experiences; we as a membership have learned that we are fl exible, adaptable, innovative, and committed. I wish Convent, LA to again thank the previous leadership and the National Offi ce Staff at that time for maintaining the eff ective operations and serving as our anchors during this diffi cult transition. Silver Medal Recipients: Texas State: Bro. Gerald W. Joseph Lady Janice Taylor Time does heal and I am happy to report that the majority of Courts in the aff ected areas are back intact and functioning as viable Bro. Derek J. Phillips Lady Beatrice Th ierry units in the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary. “In All Ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy path”. (Proverbs). Western States: Bro. LeRoy R. Titus Lady Patricia Gee I would like to humbly express my gratitude to the Ladies Division for your confi dence evidenced by electing me to serve the membership as Supreme Lady for 2006 – 2008. With your continued prayers, support, and love we shall continue experiencing Gulf Coast: Bro. Barry D. Weaver Lady Daisey Ferrette the success we strive for as an organization as we serve our church, our communities, and our Noble Order.

Th ese past sixteen months have been a very busy time. I have accepted and attended numerous invitations for Claver Activities Louisiana State: Bro. Alfred Adams Lady Lena M. Blaise from the various Districts and States. I plan to continue attending functions if and when invited as long as time and scheduling Bro. Lawrence J. Edwards Lady Th eresa Mims-Julien will allow. It is always so good to see Clavers in action. Lady Henrietta Robertson

Additionally, I extend thanks to the National Council Board of Directors and members of the Executive Committee for their Northern States: Bro. Michael J. Taylor Lady Salvodi Silas support. To the National Court Board of Directors and Executive Committee, you are the wind beneath the wings of the Ladies Division. Th ank you for your commitment and willingness to serve. Also; my sincere and heartfelt thanks to the entire National Offi ce Staff for being the valuable resource to all the Ladies Board to fulfi ll the duties of our respective offi ces. Central States: No submittal Lady Gaylene V. Harris

Th e 2007 National Convention in Dearborn, Michigan was a most memorable event. Everyone appeared to have enjoyed all activities and found the workshops presented by the National Oﬃ cers to be timely and informative. One of the highlights for the Ladies Division was to have the following Past Supreme Ladies in attendance throughout the convention: Lady Elise LeNoir Morris (1976 – 1982), Lady Consuella M. Broussard (1982 – 1988), and Lady Leodia Gooch (1994 – 2000). We thank these Ladies for their continued support of the Ladies Division.

We are about to being the 2008 District/State Conference Cycles for the Junior and Senior Divisions. I encourage every member to attend their individual Conference and the 2008 National Convention in Jacksonville, Florida if at all possible. An informed and participative membership makes for an effi cient and eff ective organization. Please visit our offi cial website at www.kofpc.org and attend your local meetings to obtain information on the upcoming Conferences and National Convention.

At this time, we are about to begin the Lenten Season. Let us each refl ect upon our individual lives and sacrifi ces we could or should make to show reverence and respect to the sacrifi ce Jesus Christ made for us.

As we continue to strive to be like our patron saint, St. Peter Claver, let us always be mindful that each of us are children of God to be recognized and respected.

Wishing you and your families a very spiritual and Happy Easter!

Geralyn C. Shelvin

Geralyn C. Shelvin Supreme Lady 8 45 Congratulations!! Knights of Peter Claver Established November 7, 1909 Incorporated July 12, 1911 in Mobile, Alabama

“Onward” is our “Trust in God” War Cry our Pass Word 1825 Orleans Ave New Orleans, LA 70116 (504)821-4225 FAX (504)821-4253 Email: [email protected] Website: www.kofpc.org

Oﬃ ce of H. Bronco Henderson Executive Director Knight Alcee Valsin Lady Elois Shankle Outstanding Knight Outstanding Lady St. Mary, Council #182 St. Mary, Council #182

Fraternal Greetings: Congratulations to St. Monica Council and Court #151 in Houston, Texas on Forty years of Service through Claverism. Council #151 was established on April 26, 1965 and Court #151 was established on October 24, 1965. It is an honor and pleasure to serve the members of the largest predominately African American Catholic Fraternal Organization in the world. At certain points in our lives, many of us feel the need to reﬂ ect on what it takes to walk St. Peter Claver Day Celebration September 2006 at Our Mother of Mercy Council #64 and St. Catherine Court #64 in the footsteps of our patron Saint, Peter Claver, to lead a life that is good, useful, worthy, and meaningful. Perhaps Beaumont, Texas Congratulations to the following members for their many years of service of Claverism: we have noticed ourselves changing our principles and making too many compromises in our life and we want to reconnect with our Claver values and Claver principles. Or perhaps, we desire in a world ﬁ lled with clashing opinions, to understand the great ideas and ideals that have competed throughout the progress of our Noble Order, as we approach our centennial year in 2009.

Our Claver values off er a chance for restorative refl ection on what it means to serve our church, and to serve in our local communities. Our Claver principles are particularly relevant today. One of the realities noted during the 10th National Black Catholic Congress is the declining numbers of predominantly Black Catholic parishes. Parish closures and merges caused some of the decline. We must continue to promote our Claver traditions and timeless values at our parishes. We should continue to mentor our juniors, try to reclaim our apathetic and alienated members, and continue Grand Knight Wilbert Lyons and the late Rev. Harry Duff y, Lady Gracie Broussard-Middleton of Court #64 Received to recruit new members. As Clavers, we should lift our sights above the possessions which possess us, to confront S.S.J. Recognizing Claverism at Our Mother of Mercy in 25 + years of service Pictured l – r: Supreme Lady, Geralyn our own nature as human beings, to regain control over our own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self- Beaumont, Texas, presented a plaque for 50+ years of service C. Shelvin, Lady Middleton and Supreme Knight, Gene A. correcting, thus a more self-fulfi lling and sacramental way of life. to Knight Mabry “Pop” Landor of Council #64. Phillips, Sr. St. Peter Claver Pray for us!

H. Bronco Henderson

Lady Mary Lorena Petry of Court #64 -Received 50 + years Knight Elacy Junius received a service award for Claverism of Service Pictured l – r: Supreme Lady, Geralyn C. Shelvin, Pictured left – right: Supreme Lady, Geralyn C. Shelvin, Lady Petry and Supreme Knight, Gene A. Phillips, Sr. Knight Junius, Supreme Knight, Gene A. Phillips, Sr. and Knight Mabry 44 9 Knights of Peter Claver Council & Court #138 News Brief Established November 7, 1909 Incorporated July 12, 1911 in Mobile, Alabama Houston, Texas

Oﬃ ce of “Onward” is our “Trust in God” War Cry our Pass Word Twenty-Five Years of Meritorious Service Most Reverend Joseph N. Perry Post Office Box 733 KPC National Chaplain South Holland, IL 60473-0733 Business: 708-339-2474 Fax: 708-339-2477 Email: [email protected]

As we speak, Diplomat Travel here in Chicago is putting together the details for our Centennial Pilgrimage to Cartagena, Colombia, South America – the old slave port, and the old city of charm with its grand Cathedral wherein is found under the high altar in glass the remains of our patron, Father Peter Claver {1581-1654}. We would like this second visit to forge a spiritual preparation for our 100th Anniversary of the founding of the Knights of Peter Claver {1909}. You might wish to touch base with those who traveled with us to Cartagena the fi rst time, August 27-30, 2006, our fi rst such pilgrimage. Many will testify to the powerful uplift that was theirs with our visit and worship. As soon as the travel agency confi rms the details we shall have that information, registration form, and copy-capable blurb, placed on the KPC web-page for easy access. We are aiming at October 2008 for the pilgrimage so that it is not crowded in close to the annual convention or the variety of local centennial commemorations bound to be scheduled. For those desiring to accompany us to visit Peter Claver, you might download the life Lady Dorsey Glady, Lady Evelyn Figures, Lady Ida Hood, Lady Marie Perry, Lady Irene Williams, Lady Margie of Peter Claver off the KPC web-site and study the several chapters found therein within discussion groups and other projects. Guilbeaux (Left to Right) Lady Joyce T. Williams Below Council and Court #138 Special Award Winners Th is biography was edited using various ecclesiastical records and sources.

Last year’s annual convention is Detroit saw the Supreme Knight challenge our junior knights to think about the possibility of priesthood in service to the people of God. Th ree young men stood courageously to indicate their interest. We have been able to mail them salient pieces of Vocations literature, following the convention, to keep the thought running in their prayerful hearts and souls. Should any knight or lady observe one of our young knights so disposed towards vowed life-time service, simply send me his name and address and I will place him on our list of continued vocations communications.

Bishops from the United States continue to register interest in our noble order. We await news from the local units about the completed exempliﬁ cations of several bishops who are on the docket: Archbishop Harold Flynn of St. Paul-Minneapolis; Archbishop Henry Mansell of Hartford; Auxiliary Bishop John M. Quinn of Detroit; Auxiliary Bishop Guy Sansarique of Brooklyn; Auxiliary Bishop Shelton Fabre of New Orleans. Let us know as soon as possible so I can issue a proper letter of welcome to the bishop.

It came to my attention that our wake-rituals in the instance of the death of a member might need a review and some suggested revision. Th e following criteria were used to examine our services: (1) the suitability of a proper ritual for a funeral where there is no wake ordered – often where there is a short visitation just prior to the funeral mass; (2) making sure our rituals avoid any Knight Mitchell Duplechain Lady Jeanette Lewis Lady Joyce T. Williams Lady Sandra Murray duplication of a part or parts of the proscribed Rite of Mass of Christian Burial of the Roman Catholic Church inclusive of scripture passages, priestly-type prayers in content or format, lest our ritual be confused with being the actual funeral service or Paul White Award Paul White Award Dennis Armelin Award Nora Hebert Award being an unnecessary duplication of the funeral service; (3) making sure our rituals steer clear of anything in content potentially Charter Member Silver Medal 2006 Winner HICC Madri Gras Queen interfering with a priest or deacon who comes to the funeral home where the recitation of the rosary is custom or where the Financial Secretary (2005-07) standard printed wake services approved by the Catholic bishops of the United States are used, thus appropriately leaving the Inner Guard KPC rituals distinct and complementary to the beauty of the obsequies; (4) making sure our rituals observe the constraints of time which is always a question with funerals. Submitted by: Lady Diane Miles Lector #138 We want to make sure that we guarantee the opportunity to make public and dignifi ed corporate expression of our sympathy when a member has died, symbolically indicating the sentiments of the entire membership of the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc or the Ladies Auxiliary/Ladies of Grace, particularly in absence of our supreme knight and supreme lady and other senior offi ce holders, while indicating the condolences of rank-and-fi le members with whom the deceased shared the òf our order. Th ese matters were discussed in a conference call with the supreme knight and supreme lady and our offi cers from around the country. Th e National Chaplain proposed a newly composed ritual that could be added to our list of rituals or could eff ectively be used in most any context when time connected with the various parts of the funeral is, obviously, shortened. Perhaps, a workshop can be off ered on our wake-rituals at the next annual convention.

We were invited by Bishop Curtis Guillory, SVD, of Beaumont, Texas to concelebrate the 40th anniversary of the Diocese and the 100th anniversary of their Cathedral-Basilica on October 21, 2007. Th ere we had chance to congratulate the new Cardinal of the southwest, Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston-Houston, whose elevation by Pope Benedict XVI is a nod toward the increase of Catholicism in the southwestern regions, contributed largely by Catholics of Hispanic heritage.

10 43 SPECIAL INTEREST SECTION 2006 Winners: CONGRATULATIONS! Grand Knight & Grand Lady of the Year: Financial Secretary of Year: Brother Daniel Francis Cn#76 Lady Dawn Brinston, Ct#220 Lady Lois Washington, Ct#52

Family of the Year: Deputy OSCAR OSCAR SHAW SHAW BENOIT Louisiana State District Deputy District Deputy Western States

Council & Court of the Year: Timothy J. Sullivan, Cn #138 ANDERSON Bishop Gracida, Council #223 Queen of All Saints, Ct#138 Queen of All Saints, Court#138

Gold Medal Recipients:

Fr. James Goode, O.F.M. Deputy ELLIS STIELL STIELL

Texas State Texas JAMES K. JAMES

Lady Eula Carmon, Ct#31 District Deputy LEONARD V. V. LEONARD Gulf Coast States Most Faithful NavigatorMost Lady Ann Rosemond, Ct. #88 BEEVERSHARRY

Silver Medal Recipients:

Louisiana State: Bro. Felix Johnson Lady Helen Harrison MOST WORTHY SUPREME KNIGHT

Bro. Calvin Keller Lady Mary Ann Ned Sr. Phillips, A. Gene DAVID DAVID HOWARD HOWARD MOORE District Deputy Northern States CRAWFORD CRAWFORD Central States District Deputy District Deputy Gulf Coast: Bro. Anthony Burden Lady Fannie Burden Lady Rhonda Labat

Central States: Bro. Roger Owens Lady Beverly Friday

Texas State: Bro. Hosea Harris, Jr. Lady Margie Guilbeaux Lady Th eresa St. Julian

Northern States: Bro. Melvin Ferman Lady Anitra Hutcherson BISHOP JOSEPH GEORGE National Lay National Lay WILLIAMS WILLIAMS Board Member Board Member Lady Flora Bryant-Taylor National Chaplain PERRY, J.C.D.

Western States: Lady Cheryl Pyles

2006 Th omas R. Lee Scholarship Winners: National STIELL STIELL Kristen Jones, Breaux Bridge, LA Treasurer National Advocate PHILIP B. Jasenn C. Hardin, Mobile, AL VINCENT Executive DirectorExecutive WILKINS, JR.

2006 Willie Polk Scholarship Winners: Knights of Inc. Peter Claver, H. BRONCO HENDERSON

Lousiana Texas Western District Kristen Hardy Jasmin Nwachokor Lauren M. Lewis C. National TERRY Secretary Secretary ARTHUR J. KELLEY J. KELLEY Immediate Past Immediate Ciera Duronselet Viola Chima Nicholas T. Blount Knight Supreme McFARLAND Jasmin Richardson Amber St. Julian Heather Gaulden 2006-2008 Aarianne’ C. Hudson Lauren Abram-Campbell Todd E. Paul Darden Babineaux Central District National Council AT James A. Th ierry Mallori Harrell NO THIS Deputy Deputy TIME PAUL PAUL Board of Directors Jared C. Mitchell Northern District PHOTO JAMES A. A. JAMES JONES, JR. Supreme Knight Supreme Junior Knights AVAILABLE Ray Michael Bastian, III Crystal K. Franklin Gulf Coast Director General COLEMAN, SR. SR. COLEMAN, Gail A. Ballard Daniella M. Taylor Denise Montano Ashley Glass Inc. of Peter Claver, Knights 42 11 Deputy Deputy CYNTHIA CYNTHIA MICAELA MICAELA LE BLANC LE BLANC Louisiana State District Deputy Western States States Western LYONS-JACKSON LYONS-JACKSON

NAN NAN LEWIS Deputy District Deputy Deputy District Texas State State Texas Gulf Coast States GWENDOLYN GWENDOLYN ARCENEAUX From Left to Right Sir Knight Charles Love - Scholarship Chairman Bria Temple Sir Knight Horace Young - Scholarship Golf Tournament Chairman Father John H. Dorsey Assembly No. 2 WILSON LORETTA LORETTA Central States District Deputy District Deputy District Deputy E. ANNETTA E. ANNETTA Northern States States Northern

RICHARDSON Houston, Texas Th e John H. Dorsey Fourth Degree B. E.L. Scholarship was named after Charles Broussard, Arenia Edwards and SUPREME LADY SUPREME LADY MOST ESTEEMED Felton Lawrence (B.E.L.). Th ese individuals had a vision and the awareness of the need for Catholic education among

GERALYN C. SHELVIN C. SHELVIN GERALYN our youth.

Th e Scholarship is awarded to a child graduating from the eighth grade with a desire to attend a catholic high school. Th e recipient of this award must demonstrate a strong academic foundation and a true ﬁ nancial need.

Th e recipient of the BEL Scholarship for 2007 was awarded to Bria Dean Temple of St. Peter Th e Apostle Catholic WILTZ WILTZ HILDA L. HILDA National Lay National Lay School. Th e scholarship is fully funded for four years by the KPC Father John H. Dorsey Grand Assembly No. 2. Board Member Board Member

Bria is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. David Temple Sr., of St. Philip Neri Catholic Church. Bria attended St. Philip Neri Elementary School. She was Valedictorian of her graduating class. She was on the principals Honor Roll maintaining

Navigator an overall “A” average while participating on the student council, Library Club, Track, Volleyball and Basketball teams Most FaithfulMost JACKSON JACKSON MICHELLE

SIAS SIAS for three years. She is attending Incarnate Word Academy this school year. After high school, she plans to pursue a National Treasurer MELISSA career as an Attorney. Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary Claver Ladies of Peter Knights BRIERS MARY L. L. MARY National Secretary Secretary DELISE Supreme Lady Supreme 2006-2008 National Court Board of Directors Court Board of 2006-2008 National Immediate Past Immediate COLEMAN COLEMAN Vice YVONNE JACKSON JACKSON DIANE DIANE Supreme Lady Supreme ASBERRY Junior Daughters National Counselor

12 41 AGNES COLEMAN CHAPTER 1 MOBILE, ALABAMA

Th e Agnes Coleman Chapter 1 KPC Ladies of Grace has maintained their goals of doing corporal works of mercy in their parish and community.

Th e Gracious Ladies of Agnes Coleman worked diligently to make their Annual Musical Extravaganza a success again this year. Th e multi denominational program participants make the musical, each year, an ecumenical Lenten service for those in attendance. Congratulations to the following National Officers for their Th e proceeds received from this fundraiser beneﬁ ts Most Pure Heart of Mary School, the one remaining Black Catholic School in the Mobile Diocese. Gracious Lady Fannie Burden and Gracious Lady Carrie Morrissette, along with a hard working committee services rendered to the organization during 2000-2006 that was well supported by the membership, did an excellent job in reaching their ﬁ nancial goal. Job well done!!

Sr. Nancy Crossen, Principal of Most Pure Heart of Mary School, gratefully accepted the check that was presented to her. She stated that the money would be used for the educational needs of the students and school improvement. Brother Arthur C. McFarland Supreme Knight In addition to the musical that beneﬁ ts the school, the Ladies of Chapter 1 have donated ﬁ nancially, in service, food, clothing or other items to: Mobile Rescue Mission, Allen Memorial Home, Dumas Wesley Community Center Sybil Smith Family Village, Brother Emmett C. Orr Brother Michael J. Taylor Brother Louis J. Hawkins Inter - Parish Council Memorial Scholarship Fund, Gracious Lady LaTanya Brown (campaign for Junior Daughter Directress of Deputy Supreme Knight National Secretary National Treasurer the Gulf Coast District), Gracious Lady Gwendolyn Lewis (campaign for Gulf Coast District Deputy), KPCLA Junior Daughter Court 1 (50th Year Anniversary), Jalissa Robinson (People to People Ambassador Trip), St. James Major Church(donation), and Brother Robert Miller Brother Garry Bostick Brother Roosevelt J. Stevenson St. Rose Education Foundation Endowment Fund. Lay Board Member Dist. Deputy, Central States State Deputy Louisiana

Th e members of Agnes Coleman Chapter 1 are actively promoting spiritual, intellectual and cultural growth among its members Brother Gerald W. Joseph Brother A. Jackie Elly throughout the year. State Deputy of Texas Past Supreme Knight

Milestone Accomplishment ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ On February 14, 1981, twenty-eight Ladies Auxiliary members presented themselves to Sir Knight Joshua P. Edwards, Faithful Navigator, for the purpose to participate in the Exempliﬁ cation ceremonies and through this experience were privileged to enter Lady Mary L. Briers into the Great Mysteries of the Sublime Order of the Fourth Degree. Supreme Lady

Th e existence continues, on Sunday February 14, 2006 Inez Y. Bowman Chapter No.2 Ladies of Grace Division, Knights of Peter Claver celebrated their 25th Anniversary with a mass of thanksgiving at 7:30 am at St. Francis Xavier Church in Houston, Texas. Lady Grace M. Dawson Lady Lena F. Young Lady Yvonne Jackson Archbishop Daniel N. Dinardo was the celebrant and congratulated the Gracious Ladies on their 25th Anniversary and other Vice Supreme Lady National Secretary National Treasurer accomplishments. He also reminded us of the sacriﬁ ces that were made by St. Peter Claver. Th e Sir Knights from Father John H. Dorsey Assembly No. 2 were the guests and served as Honor Guards. Following the mass a breakfast was held. Lady Elsa R. Phillips Lady Vertelle A. Kenion Lady Marion Reynoso Nat’l Counselor Jr. Daughters District Deputy Gulf Coast Dist. Deputy Northern States Th e Chapter has a total of 98 members. Th e Ladies of Grace have been blessed with strong leadership over the past 25 years. Th e past and present Faithful Navigators are as follows: Gracious Ladies: Hilder Stiner, Elise LeNoir Morris, Gladys Armelin, Zettie Lady Brenda Andrus Lady Leodia Gooch Gracious Lady Geralyn C. Shelvin Babino (deceased), Mary McGowan, Dr. Dena Downey-Garrett, Norris Marie Pointer and newly elected Margie Guilbeaux. Lay Board Member Past Supreme Lady Supreme Navigator, L.O.G.

Pictured with Archbishop are the Faithful Navigators: Th e honor guards from Fr. John H. Dorsey Assembly No.2 Gracious Lady Margie Guilbeaux and Sir Knight Ira J. Wade Th e honor guards from Fr. John H. Dorsey Assembly No.2 40 13 2 0 0 6 DISTRICT NEWS SECTION

CENTRAL STATES DISTRICT NEWS MICHELLE C. JACKSON, SUPREME NAVIGATOR Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange 4TH DEGREE LADIES OF GRACE DIVISION Court #343 St. Alphonsus “Rock” Catholic Church GREETINGS: St. Louis, Missouri It is in indeed an honor and privilege to bring you greetings from the Supreme General Chapter, Fourth Degree Th e Knights and Ladies of unit 343 are dedicated to Th e profi ts went towards the church’s scholarship Ladies of Grace Division. I want to thank all the Chapters who have expanded their membership for following the the spirit and mission of St. Peter Claver as we continue fund, regional conference and national convention guidelines and communication so effi ciently. I encourage each of you to “reach out” and look within your local to foster the goals set forth by our Noble Order by participation, Founders Day celebration and courts, recognizing the services provided to the church, community and our Noble Order by our fellow sisters ministering to the church and community in a variety workshops. who meet the qualifi cations and criteria to be submitted for membership into the Ladies of Grace Division. Let’s of programs. Th e year 2006 signifi es a new era for remember that “WE ARE FAMILY” members of the Knights of Peter Claver working to continue the work of St. the Ladies Auxiliary as the reigns of leadership passes We are proud of our Jr. Daughters as they are very Peter Claver. We are all working for the same cause the church, community and good of the order. from the seasoned and accomplished hands of our past involved in the church, their various schools and in Grand Lady, Reola Weaver to the capable and energetic the community at large. Th ey serve as servers, choir My sincere hope is that each of you exhibit “Continuous Growth Th ru Dedication, Faith and Love for hands of our new Grand Lady, Jerilyn Bell. Th e Ladies members, liturgical dancers, ushers, volunteers at the Humanity” throughout your everyday lives continuing to provide services to your church parishes community and are excited about the future and direction of the court children’s bible classes and participate in organizing our noble order. as it forges ahead with plans for community activities, the annual church Easter egg hunt. Junior Daughter charitable outreach initiatives, fundraisers and spiritual Martilla Davis, who holds the offi ce of Lady of Prayer, I would like to thank the Supreme General Chapter Offi cers and all Gracious Ladies of Supreme General Chapter and sisterly growth. As the year progresses, the court had the privilege of traveling to Africa in 2005 as a for their continued prayers, support and encouragement. A Big Th ank You to Most Esteemed Supreme Lady strives to be stronger and even more enthusiastic in our member of the Kilalo Rites of Passage delegation. Th is Gracious Lady Geralyn C. Shelvin for always believing in me and her continued support, by sharing her knowledge community service and charitable eff orts. group is made up of teens and young adults who are for the growth of the Ladies of Grace Division, Most Worthy Supreme Knight Gene A. Phillips, Sr., Most Faithful civically, socially and spiritually minded and strives to Supreme Navigator, Sir Knight Harry Beevers, Executive Director, Mr. H. Bronco Henderson and the National Th e court stands supportive of our offi cers: Grand make positive changes in the community. We want to Offi ce Staff for their assistance in fulfi lling my duties. Lady, Vice Grand Lady, Financial Secretary, Recording encourage our young ladies to engage in uplifting life Secretary, Treasurer, Jr. Daughter Counselor, Assist. Jr. experiences and to be positive role models for other I look forward to continue working with all Grand Chapters of the Supreme General Chapter, Supreme General Daughter Counselor, Lady of Prayer, Outer Guard, young people. Chapter Board, as well as all divisions of our Noble Order as we “Continue to Grow thru Dedication, Faith and Inner Guard, Lecturer and the Board of Trustees. Love for Humanity.” As we continue to uphold the principles of Claverism, Th e Knights of Peter Claver, the Ladies Auxiliary and we pray that God’s grace will direct us to be more the Junior Daughters participated in Sign Me Up pleasing in His sight and grow ever closer to Him and Sunday which is sponsored by the church to encourage to each of our Claver sisters. its parishioners to join various ministries and church organizations. Many of our members were present to Submitted by: greet and inform those who stopped by our station Terez Dunnings Jackson with inquiries about Claverism and our activities. Lecturer As a result, fi ve people expressed a strong interest in joining the Clavers. Some of the various fundraising programs we sponsored included a Sunday Brunch, bi-annual tailgate sales, an annual fashion show and a Christmas bazaar. Th e Lenten Fish Fry has also been very successful with several Claver ladies present to cook, serve, cleanup, and to donate desserts. 14 39 GULF COAST DISTRICT NEWS

Huntsville Knights of Peter Claver Convenes Successful Development Workshop by Bro. Patrick Reardon

A Development Networking Workshop, sponsored by the Huntsville Knights of Peter Claver, was held at Visitation Parish Center on April 8 in Huntsville. Attendees, representing a diverse spectrum of religious, educational, civic and public health organizations, were treated to an enlightening presentation on fundraising and development programs over the three hour event with a lunch following.

Supreme Navigator Th e workshop provided an opportunity to listen and learn from experts in the fi eld of development. Attendees were Fourth Degree also able to join colleagues from other organizations to network and share ideas. Th e panelists included Lawrence Wesneski and Nancy Archuleta. DeKarlos Blackmon provided the opening address. Fraternal Greetings, Blackmon, the Grand Knight of the Huntsville Council of the Knights of Peter Claver, began by discussing the event’s In July of 2002, at the Supreme General Assembly Conclave, I was elected the13th Supreme Navigator of the sublime theme of “giving as an act of faith.” Beginning with the examples from the Old Testament and then continuing Fourth Degree Division of Th e Knights of Peter Claver. In the past fi ve and a half years since I assumed offi ce, the through the New Testament, Blackmon spoke about how giving, in particular sacrifi cial giving, is an opportunity organization has had a lot of hills and valleys. to serve your fellow man. At the conclusion of his talk, he reminded the assembly, “With gratitude from what God has done for us and through us, we should generously take the opportunity to share with others that which we have I have listed examples of these hills and valleys the organization had to overcome: received from God. It is in this way that we take care of God’s people.” • In 2004, through death, we lost our Executive Director of over thirty years, Sir Knight W. Charles Keyes, Jr. • In August of 2005 the fl ood waters of Hurricane Katrina destroyed our Home Offi ce and we temporarily moved News from: Father Edgar Ryan Court #272 our Home Offi ce to Montgomery, Alabama for two and a half years. • Th e Alabama Department of Insurance Examinations. “Let us give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the merciful Father, the God from whom all help comes! • Th e Supreme General Assembly had to completely replace all of the regalia that were lost due to the fl ood waters. He helps us in all our troubles, so that we are able to help others who have all kinds of troubles, using the same help that we Th at loss cost thousands of dollars, some of which was covered by insurance. ourselves have received from God” (2 Corinthians 1: 1)

In the last year since the home offi ce returned to New Orleans, we are in the process of coordinating the Th ird and Th is past year has been a productive and a refl ective one. Father Edgar Ryan Court #272 in Birmingham, Alabama Fourth Degree membership fi les. Each Assembly and Chapter were sent forms to be completed and returned to the continues to work for the good of our Noble Order, the Church and the community at large. national offi ce. Th e forms should have been returned by the end of February, 2008, but because of one of the valleys, this could not be completed earlier. I am confi dent that this project will be completed by the end of my tenure. We • January 8, 2006 – Offi ce of Black Ministry of the Catholic Diocese of Birmingham will continue in our eff orts to establish projects that will be benefi cial to our Clergy and Seminarians. Please continue sponsored the Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. Councils and Courts #140, to Pray for Vocations. #272 and #286 turned out in full regalia. Th e celebration included a guest speaker, praise dancing, Essay Place winners and a special tribute to Dr. King. A reception immediately As you are aware, the Supreme Assemblies and Supreme Chapters yearly dues were raised this year. Our yearly dues followed the celebration, sponsored by Councils and Courts #140 and #272. are the only funding that we have for the operation of the Supreme Assembly and Supreme Chapter. Th e cost for our • February 5, 2006 - Court #272 gave a donation to Holy Family Catholic Church for Yearly Conclave has increased in the past fi ve years. Th is is the only time our Supreme Boards meet. Th e Supreme Assembly Board Members only travel when it is absolutely a necessity and when we travel locally it is at our own $500.00 during Holy Family Sunday during the National Day of Prayer for the African expense. It is very important that you attend this years Conclave in Jacksonville, FL. Th is is an election year. It is very American Family. important that you be there to have a say in who will be your next Supreme Navigator. It has been a pleasure to serve • February 10, 2006 – Court #272 sponsored a Pre-Valentine’s Day Dance at the Father you and this Organization that I love, as your Supreme Navigator. I will continue to serve you in my position on the Edgar Ryan Parish Hall. Despite the weather, this was an opportunity to fellowship among Board as Past Supreme Navigator. brothers and sisters. It was a nice turnout. • February 11, 2006 – Representatives from Councils #140, #272 and Court #272 attended Fraternally yours, the Th ird Annual Valentine Scholarship Champagne Brunch, sponsored by Council/Court #286 in Huntsville, AL. Th e Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Robert Salinas, kept the program Harry Beevers moving, along with Omni Music for musical entertainment; food and door prizes. Fr. Gary New, S.D.S., Associate Pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Church, gave the invocation Harry Beevers (and a humorous joke). Proceeds from the brunch go toward scholarships for High School Supreme Navigator Seniors wanting to attend college. Brother Leonard Stiell, Gulf Coast District Deputy Fourth Degree Knights of Peter Claver attended the brunch. 38 15 JUNIOR KNIGHT SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS COUNCIL and COURT #238 KUDOS TO THE FOLLOWING: St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church Houston, Texas • Ms. Pamela Brown, daughter of Lady Ora Jones, graduated with a Master of Arts from Faulkner University. John Roy, Junior Knight of St. Peter the Apostle is a 2007 high school graduate of Th e High School For • Sisters Melody and Melanie George, granddaughters of Lady Rose George, graduated with Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Texas. He is the son of Lady Mable Roy. John’s academic achievements Bachelor degrees from Auburn University. have been outstanding. He is enrolled in Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas. He was awarded a $1000.00 • • Jr. Daughter Manessa Watts, granddaughter of Lady Henrietta Watts and niece of Ladies Scholarship by the Knights and Ladies of Council and Court #238. Ola Bell Walker and Rosa Flowers-Benson (all members of Court #140) graduated from Holy Family High School, and now attends Miles College. John has been a Junior Knight since an early age, and contributes his tenure to learning the importance • • Jr. Daughter Charita Merchant, daughter of Lady Mary Merchant, graduated from Ensley of integrity, dedication, and perseverance. His motivation to excel in the performing arts began during his early High School, and now attends the University of Alabama at Birmingham competition in public speaking at regional and national conferences. Th rough these experiences he learned that he • Jr. Daughter Nikita Williams, daughter of Lady Lorena Haynes Pearson-Walton, graduated was blessed with multiple performing arts talents, such as acting and public speaking. As a Junior Knight he was from high school and now attends Jacksonville State University. taught and believe that “Without God Nothing is Possible” and “With God All Th ings Are Possible.” • Jr. Daughter Krystal Johnson earned a National Achievement Scholar Award. She was also a place winner of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest during the month of Council and Court # 238 has awarded a total of $5,000.00 to Junior Daughters and Knights since the onset January. Krystal is a senior at Holy Family School. She is the daughter of Brother Knight of the Scholarship Program in 2003. We are honored and proud to commend our fi rst two Junior Daughters who Robert Johnson and Lady Janice Johnson, both members of the 272 Family. were awarded scholarships. Th ey both completed four years of academic studies with honors in May, 2007. Jessica • Jr. Daughter Bianca Tompkins earned Student of the Month award for January 2006. Kemp graduated from Th e University of Texas (UT), Austin Texas. She is currently enrolled in U.T. Law School. Bianca is a student at Holy Family Elementary School. She is the daughter of Mr. and Jessica is the grand-daughter of Lady Edwina McGee. Aspen Texada graduated from Xavier University, New Mrs. Albert Tompkins. Orleans, LA and plans to attend Medical School. She is the grand-daughter of Grand Lady Mary Ida and Knight • Jr. Daughter Whitney Hill earned the Merit Athletic Achievement Award in 2005. She Wilbert Reed. is a senior at Holy Family High School and the daughter of Lady Brenda Mitchell and granddaughter of Brother Knight James Mitchell, both members of the 272 Family. Court Please join us in congratulating our young adults as outstanding achievers. Truly, they are role models for #272 plans to become more involved in the church and in the community for the rest of all Junior Knights and Daughters. Let’s keep the Claver Spirit alive. the year. Respectfully submitted, Council/Court #238 Lady Bobbie Rossigion, Scholarship Committee Chair Knight Raymond and Lady Lorita Duke- Co-Chairs

CONGRATULATIONS!!

JOHN JUSTIN COLEMAN - Past Jr. Supreme Knight Cn.#31

KARLNELIUS DUHON – Past Jr. State President Cn.#31

RENALDO DIXON - Past 1st Vice President Cn.#76

Th ree other Junior Knights of Louisiana were initiated into the Senior Division in an initiation ceremony held at the Louisiana Jr. State Conference, held in Lafayette, La. in March 2007. Supreme Knight, Gene Phillips, Deputy Supreme, Knight Paul Jones, Lay Board Member, George Williams, and La. State Deputy Oscar Benoit lead the initiation ceremony.

Submitted by: James A. Coleman, Sr. Director General, Junior Knights

16 37 St. James Major, Junior Court #172 Th e Junior Daughters of St. James Major Court #172 attended the 2007 Gulf Coast District Junior Conference in Atlanta, GA on March 2-4. Th ey participated in the business sessions and workshops and they also attended the Awards Banquet and the Mass on Sunday morning. Pictured to the right seated left to right: Brooke Benjamin Spellman Th omas, Lauren Lipscomb, Annette Tinsley, Katherine Tinsley, and Ashlyn Danzy. Standing (l-r) Dorothy Knight Benjamin Spellman, member of Crook, Brea Herron (Junior Grand Lady), Christa Bishop Gracida Council #223, Pensacola, FL Sullivan, Jasmine McCaskey and Counselor Linda G. Th omas. Southern Oaks Nursing Home Host Program Honored Other chaperones were: Grand Lady Stephanie Benjamin “Benny” Spellman Danzy, Lady Winifred Mabien, Lady Keela Alexander, Lady Constance Taylor, Lady Deora Tinsley, Lady On Saturday, August 5, 2006 at 4:30-6:00 p.m., Th e Southern Oaks Nursing Home hosted a Program Honoring Local Rhythm Dorothy Lewis and Gulf Coast District Deputy and Blues Singer of the 50s and 60s, “Th e Benny Spellman”. Gwendolyn Lewis. Benjamin J. Spellman a resident of Southern Oaks was inducted into New Orleans’ Tipitina Foundation Hall of Fame. Mr. Spellman, now 75, was once compared to the likes of Fats Domino, Allen Toussaint, Lee Dorsey, and Dr. Long Hair of the New Orleans R & B scene. Mr. Spellman’s deep melodious voice sang the Bass line in “Mother-in-Law”, and had smash hits of Lipstick Traces/ Fortune Teller. Both became minor classics during the 60s.

Th e Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary Court #220 would like to congratulate our Outstanding Junior Daughter Benny, a club singer and performer at Frank Piaina’s Club, played the piano with the greats of his day: Paul McCartney of the Scholars. Beatles and the Neville Brothers, to mention a few. Benny even backed up B.B. King who passed through the New Orleans R & B circuit. Th e O’Jays and the Rolling Stones even updated Mr. Spellman’s hits, as well as many British R & B bands. Sarah Yerima, Asst. Jr. Daughter Treasurer and Student Body President at Transfi guration School is the Class of 2007 Valedictorian. She has been awarded a $23,000 yearly scholarship to the Prestigious Marlborough College Preparatory Mr. Spellman had a profound eff ect on R & B of his day. His hit records are now sold as Golden Oldies CDs on Amazon.com: School. She is the Granddaughter of Lady Barbara Liggins of Court #220. Sara Richards, Jr. Daughter Vice Grand “Lipstick Traces/Fortune Teller”. Not bad for a local home town boy and disabled Vet! Lady and Vice President of the Student Council is the Class of 2007 Salutatorian. She received a scholarship to Th e Program honoring Mr. Spellman consisted of a “Roast” hosted by Head Nurse/Administrator, Mrs. Jeanine Church and her Marymount High School where she will demonstrate her academic excellence and fi ne qualities. Sara is the daughter of Husband, the joint owners of Southern Oaks. Acting master of ceremonies was Mr. Honor Bell, Sr. whose father played with Lady Sheila Richards of Court #220. Benny in New Orleans. Honor helped organized this event.

Submitted by: Mr. Benjamin Spellman’s Program: Dawn Brinston Transﬁ guration Court #220 Th e prelude and interlude were played by Mr. Patrick Joyce, a professional pianist from St. Louis, MO.

Let’s congratulate these ﬁ ne young ladies on their Academic Excellence. Th e St. Joseph Senior Choir provided inspirational songs featuring Mr. Frank Robinson, a long time friend of Ben’s. Dr. Marion Williams, Ben’s care provider, directed the choir with gusto. Ben’s daughter, Judy Brisco-Spellman and her mother, Armarett, gave soul-stirring songs of praise to the 60-plus special guests consisting of family members, friends and staﬀ in attendance at this stellar event.

Special presentations were made to Ben. Th ese were: 1) Th e Knights of Peter Claver, a service organization of St. Joseph Parish, for his outstanding service to his church and organization; 2) His 1952 Graduating Class of B.T. Washington High School; 3) the Senior Choir presented a plaque for 30 years of Outstanding Service. And Finally, 4) the Tipitina Foundation honored Ben by inducting him into their Hall of Fame with a Plaque.

Th e Southern Oaks Nursing Home, a full-service, Inner City, State Certiﬁ ed facility, provided sumptuous food and drink for the 60- plus guests attending this aﬀ air. Th e event was featured on WEAR-TV 3. Mrs. Delores Curry, a long time church friend, and former club/funeral home owner of New Orleans, La., obtained press coverage. “Th e Florida Catholic Magazine” also did a special article on Mr. Spellman’s life and the program in its September 3, 2006 issue!

Th ough Mr. Spellman had several strokes in the past, he led the ﬁ nal selection from his wheel chair, “I feel Like a Motherless Child.” It was a moving tribute to an outstanding man whom God has blessed in abundance.

Jr. Daughters Sarah Yerima and Sara Richards with Father Martini and Grand Lady Evelyn Payne. Submitted by: Marion Williams, Ph.D. 36 17 TEXAS STATE NEWS

Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary

COUNCIL 284 & COURT 284 HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CHURCH Goodbye to the 2005 – 2007 Junior Board Members-- Job Well done!! AUSTIN, TEXAS Hurricane Katrina caused Council 284 and Court 284 to continue to provide several services to those in need. We collaborated A Big Welcome to the new Junior Board Members for 2007 – 2009: with Catholic Charities and the Offi ce of Black Catholics of the Diocese of Austin to provide assistance to evacuees by providing transportation as needed; collecting food for the Diocesan food pantry and providing clothing, furniture, household items and Desmond Taylor Jacob H. Nixon fi nancial assistance to evacuees through Holy Cross Catholic Church. Junior Supreme Knight Junior National Treasurer Branch #151 Branch #31 Involvement of Council 284 and Court 284 included participation in the Martin Luther King Day March, MLK Blood Drive, February Black History Program, the Mickey Leland Food Drive and Meals on Wheels. Council 284 and Court 284 coordinated Alexander M. Prince Malcolm K. Patterson the Church’s Annual Lenten Fish Fry. Past Deputy Supreme Knight Gene A. Phillips, Sr. was the guest speaker during Black Junior Deputy Supreme Knight Junior Sergeant-at-Arms History month. Branch# 222 Branch#141 Council 284 and Court 284 provided fi nancial assistance to our Junior Division by supporting their fundraisers and assisting in covering the expenses for their participation in the Junior Texas State Conference in Corpus Christi, Texas. Benjamin A. Morale Austin Richard Junior National Secretary Past Jr. Supreme Knight Congratulations to Knight Caldwell Prejean, who serves on the board of the Catholic Charities of Central Texas. He has been Branch #231 Branch# 341 selected as one of 10 fi nalists for Catholic Charities USA’s 2006 Volunteer of the Year.

We, the members of Council 284, Court 284 and Junior Divisions are proud of our beneﬁ cial service to our Church and our Mr. James A. Coleman Community. Director General, Junior Knights

Respectfully submitted, * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * KPC Council 284 and Court 284

Jasmine N. Chavis Amber G. Jones Greetings from KPCLA Ct. 182/ Port Arthur, Texas Junior Supreme Lady Junior National Treasurer Jr. Court #141 Jr. Court #72 Th e Ladies of St. Mary Court 182 is proud to announce In the month of January the newly elected offi cer of the their Outstanding Lady of the year for 2005, Lady Elois council and court was installed by the Faithful Navigator, Shankle. Th e scholarship banquet was canceled due to Lady Rena Wesley of Chapter 18. Brianna A. Batiste Brittany Terry Hurricane Rita, congratulation to Lady Shankle and Knight Junior Vice -Supreme Lady Junior Mistress-at-Arms Alcee Valsin as the Outstanding Knight. Also our court Perfect Attendance certifi cates were present to Lady Alma Jr. Court #151 Jr. Court #341 recognizes the hard work of Lady Rosella Th omas who was Martin and Lady Rosella Th omas for the year 2005 and appointed as our agent for the Texas KPC 100 Club last certifi cate of appreciation to Lady Helen Pilette as the Brendolyn R. Andrus Past Jr. Supreme Lady May. She has done a fantastic job in recruiting ten new chairperson of the Mardi Gras. Th e ladies gave the Grand Junior National Secretary Gabrielle Deculus members. Lady a beautiful basket of Mary Kay products as a token of love and appreciation. Members were also delighted with Jr. Court #151 Jr. Court #116 At the December 2006 St. Mary Knights of Peter Claver their portfolio given to them by the Grand Lady. Ladies Auxiliary Ct. 182 elected the following offi cers: Lady Mrs. Diane T. Asberry Tema Lewis Grand Lady, Lady Helen Pilette Vice Grand Respectfully submitted by, National Counselor, Junior Daughters Lady, Lady Virginia Miller Financial Secretary, Lady Deloris Grand Lady Tema Lewis White Recording Secretary, Lady Rosella Th omas Treasurer, Lady Doris Guillory Jr. Daughter, Lady Virginia Chavis Assist. Jr. Daughter Counselor, Lady Viola Valsin, Trustee Board, Lady Elois Shankle Trustee Board, Lady Gladie Stelly Trustee Board, Lady Elois Shankle Outer Guard, Lady Alma Martin Inner Guard, Lady Jeanie Veal Lecturer. 18 35

WESTERN STATES DISTRICT NEWS

2006 WESTERN STATES DISTRICT CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

Th e 2006 Western States District Conference (WSDC) for the Knights of Peter Claver and the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary was held on April 28-30, 2006 at the LAX Radisson Hotel located in Los Angeles, CA. Over 300 Knights and Ladies from the states of Washington, Oregon, Arizona, Nevada, and California make the trip to Los Angeles where they enjoyed a weekend ﬁ lled with learning, celebration, and spiritual fulﬁ llment. Activities included

FRIDAY, APRIL 28, 2006 WSDC Joint Board Meeting District Deputy Workshops including: Message from the Supreme Knight Overview of the Knights of Peter Claver Organization KPC Protocols and Deceased member Ritual Court #267 helping out at the Lenten Fish Fry Grand Knights and Grand Ladies Duties and Responsibilities Financial Management of your KPC Unit Th e Knights of Peter Claver Council #267 held their annual Fish Fry every Friday in Lent except on Good Friday. Each Candidates Forum – District and National Offi cer Candidates were given an Friday they sold over 150 dinners to church members and people in the community. Th e dinners consisted of fried opportunity to address the group on why they should be elected for a District District Deputy Anderson or National Offi ce. Th e Western States District Election Pamphlet was a handy Shaw and Brother Ferdinand catfi sh, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, peas and dessert. Th e dinners were a big hit not only because the food was Dejan during ritual workshop delicious, but it also gave people an opportunity to fellowship. guide used by all conference attendees to enlighten them on candidates who were in attendance, in addition to those who were not in attendance. Lady Hilda Submitted by, Wiltz, Candidate for National Lady Board Member-Ladies Division, sent a video Lady Sharon Bodley, Lector taped message that was played for all in attendance at the Candidate’s Forum. Candidates speaking, included all individuals running for WSDC Offi ce (most ran unopposed) and for National KPC/KPCLA Board Offi ces as well. Lady Doris Tims, candidate for Vice Supreme Lady and Brother Harry Wiley, candidate for Deputy Supreme Knight were the only two National Board candidates present at the Forum. Emerging Leader and WSDC Treasurer, Lady Kacey Bradley served as Mistress of Ceremony for the Candidate’s Forum. Conference Attendees at the workshop WSDC President, Greg Warner and SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2006 WSDC VP, John Watkins WSDC Grand Knights and Grand Ladies Breakfast WSDC Business Session—Knights/Ladies separate chambers Highlights of the Business Session included Nominations and Elections, recognition of newly initiated ladiesfrom the past year, and the passage of new resolutions for the betterment of the District. Newly Elected Offi cers for the WSDC include: WSDC Ladies Division Lady Micaela Le Blanc, Court #306 – District Deputy Lady Bettye Brown, Court #121—President Lady Bettye Cartwright, Court #230 – Vice President Lady Shawina Tims, Court #358 – Secretary Lady Kacey Bradley, Court #155 -- Treasurer Lady Dorothy Campbell, Court #220 – Mistress-at-Arms Lady Faith Otis, Court #306 – Jr. Daughter Directress Courts to the Board- Ct. 225,Portland,OR; Ct. #358,Las Vegas, NV; Ct. #369,Phoenix, AZ; and Ct. #371, San Diego, CA WSDC Knights Division Newly Elected Offi cers WORKSHOP ATTENDEES Brother Anderson Shaw, Council #121 – District Deputy Brother Darrell Dickerson, Council #155 – Jr. Knight Director 34 19 RESOLUTIONS Th at were passed by the conference body include the following:

1. WSDC Boards (both Knights and Ladies) will be responsible for putting on the Western States District Conference 2007 District News 2. Conference Registration is now $80.00 per person 3. Oﬃ ce of Financial Secretary has been added to the WSDC Board STATE OF LOUISIANA NEWS 4. WSDC Board is empowered to act on behalf of the Conference in between the annual meetings of the conference District Deputy, Lady Micaela Le Blanc took time to recognize the over 40 ladies in the Western States District who were initiated Knights and Ladies Celebrate 80 Years into our noble order over the past year. Lady Doris Tims assisted Lady Le Blanc in presenting a rosary bracelet and prayer card to each new lady who was in attendance at the conference. Th e St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Knights of Peter Claver Council #49 and Ladies Auxiliary, Evangeline Court #49 of Th e 53rd Annual Western States District Conference Banquet was MC’d by Deacon William (Bill) Hawkins of St. Brigid Breaux Bridge celebrated 80 years of service to the community Catholic Church located In Los Angeles, CA. Father Kearns, Immediate Past Superior General of the Josephites and current on Sunday, March 18. A Mass concelebrated by the Reverend pastor of St. Brigid Catholic Church provided the invocation. We were fortunate to have the KPC National Secretary, Brother Dominic Carmon, S.V.D., Auxiliary Bishop of New Orleans, Michael Taylor attend the banquet and provide greetings from the National Board. District Deputy Anderson Shaw presented was followed by a reception comprised of testimonials and the award for WSDC Knight of the Year to the WSDC President, Brother Greg Warner. District Deputy Micaela Le Blanc good wishes from KPC oﬃ cials. Th e current KPC Council presented awards to the following ladies on the District level including: #49 Grand Knight is Aaron Noel Sr., and the Grand Lady is Sheryl Ozen. HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

LADY PEARL CAMPBELL COURT #218, Seattle, WA 1ST RUNNER UP LADY KATHERINE PERSON, COURT #369, Phoenix, AZ 2ND RUNNER UP LADY BARBARA MONTGOMERY, COURT #175, Sacramento, CA

LADY OF THE YEAR AWARD SubmittedS b i d by, b Lady L d Sharon Sh BBodley, dl Lector L LADY JUANITA COX COURT #127, Oakland, CA Fr. Giles at. St. Joseph the Worker Church celebrating the 1ST RUNNER UP (tie) LADY MARY BROOKS COURT #87, Los Angeles, CA Martin Luther King Jr. Mass LADY MABEL KIDD-LeFORT Court #203, Sacramento, CA (T(Teche h NNews StStaff ff Photo Ph t bby DDerek r k AlbAlbert) rt) 2nd RUNNER UP LADY PATRICIA GEE COURT #137, Oakland, CA News from St. Joseph the Worker, Unit #267 GRAND LADY OF THE YEAR AWARD 2007 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. March LADY DIANE MAYS COURT #175, Sacramento, CA RUNNER UPS St. Joseph the Worker Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies 1ST LADY MARGARET SMITH COURT #87, Los Angeles, CA Auxiliary Court #267 held their 21st Annual Martin Luther 2ND LADY EVELYN PAYNE COURT #220, Los Angeles, CA King Jr. March and Mass on Sunday, January 15, 2007. Over 75 people including Jr. Knights and Daughters marched DISTRICT COURT OF THE YEAR AWARD silently down Ames Blvd. in Marrero, Louisiana. Th e March SACRED HEART OF JESUS COURT #121, Los Angeles, CA ended at St. Joseph the Worker Church and was followed by a Mass. After Mass members of the court and their guests sat Grand Lady Diane Mays and Sacred Heart of Jesus Court #121 will represent the Western States as the nominee for the National down to a delicious lunch prepared by the Ladies Auxiliary at KPCLA Grand Lady and Court of Year awards respectively. the Knight Hall. Th e Rev. Giles Conwill, a professor at Morehouse, AFRICAN AMERICAN LITURGY CELEBRATION - Los Angeles, CA offi ciated at our 5:00 pm Mass on Saturday and also on Sunday. He also gave a workshop on “Mary” that was very Th e Knights and Ladies of the coordinating Councils and Courts turned out in support of the 5th Annual African American informative. Everyone who attended church that weekend was MLK Marchh6 Court #267 Liturgy Celebration on February 18, 2006 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles, CA. Th is mass is sponsored positively aff ected by the message. by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles African American Catholic Center for Evangelization, whose Executive Director is also the District Deputy for the Western States, Sir Knight Anderson Shaw. Over 1000 African American Catholics from the Greater Archdiocese of Los Angeles participated in the mass celebration. Th e Knights and Ladies turned out in force and participated in various aspects of the ceremony. Presiding was the Most Reverend Edward Wm. Clark, D.D., S.T.D., V.G. Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles. Father Charles Andrus served as homilist for this auspicious occasion.

MLK March Court #267 Father Giles delivering the homily. 20 33

FOURTH DEGREE NEWS FROM 2006 LOUISIANA STATE DISTRICT NEWS

ELLEN MARIE JACKSON CHAPTER 13, KPC Lady Auxiliary Court #76 hosted their 5th Annual Men of Excellence Awards Banquet, March 25, 2006 at the Knights of LOS ANGELES, CA - CELEBRATES 25 YEAR ANNIVERSARY Peter Claver Home 1019 Surrey Street in Lafayette, LA. Th is event was designed to honor men who have not been recognized in their community, but have attained outstanding levels Th e ladies of Ellen Marie Jackson Ladies of Grace Chapter 13 celebrated their 25 year anniversary at the Proud of achievement and their contributions have signiﬁ cantly impacted our community and our citizens. Honorees are men who are Bird Restaurant in the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) area. Approximately 100 attendees, including the dedicated to their community and family. Sir Knights of Gilbert Faustina Assembly #13 attended the luncheon celebration on February 18, 2006. Mrs. Flo Hawkins, member of St. Brigid Catholic Parish in Los Angeles, and noted spiritual/motivational orator, provided Nominations are encouraged from individuals within the Acadiana Parishes. Former winners are ineligible; however former nominees may be re-nominated. the guest speaking address. Th e history of service to the Greater Los Angeles, CA community, of the Ladies of Pictured: Grand Knight Co. Brother Harold Antoine, Grace Chapter 13 was recognized. Th e photo below depicts Gracious Lady Cheryl Pyles, Immediate Past Navigator of Chapter 13, Sir Knight Andrew Knox, Assembly #13, Gracious Lady Jennie Dalcoe-Chapter 13, Lady Frances Dejan, Sir Knight Ferdinand Dejan-Assembly #13 and guests.

1. Business/Industry: Brother Phil Ricky Lindon (Flop)- Council #76, a family oriented man, but much concerned with the welfare of the elderly people and young children. He is the kind of man who works, but does not like to be called upon for what he has done. Recently purchased over 50 bicycles for the young children in the community. He was responsible for hosting the reunion & gathering of his fellow classmates, held at the Heymann Center in Lafatette. He also gave over 100 heaters to the elderly people living in the Housing projects. (In Jan. 2006.) 2. Public Service: Mr. Dorsey Foreman of Lafayette, LA. a graduate of UL of Lafayette, formerly USL, who received his degree in Teaching in 1981 and has since been a teacher at Immaculate Heart of Mary School for over 25 years. He taught music most Congratulations to the recipient of the 2006 prestigious of his career, but is currently teaching the 7th and 8th grade students, Reading, Language Arts and Social Studies and of course mucis. Knights of Peter Claver Fourth Degree, Ladies of Grace 3. Non-Proﬁ t- Brother Joseph Dennis of Council #76 Lafayette, LA. a devoted husband and father. A retiree who devotes his Cartagena Medal of Merit Award time and energy to helping the poor, elderly and disadvantaged people in the community. He picks up and delivers commodities for the elderly weekly. He also takes the poor neighborhood children out to lunch or a recreation facility or give them money as an incentive to improve their grades and he checks their report cards. *Grand Lady Mary Elair Ct. #76

2.2 Pictured Left: Honorees were: Brother Marvin Hackworth Council #49, Leo P. Kelly,K Jr., Willie “Zoot” Larry, and Brother Th omas S. Shelvin Council #76. Th e GuestG Speaker for the evening was Ms. Porsha Evans from KJCB 770- Radio Station Lafayette,L LA.

3.3 Pictured Right: Committee Members: Co-ChairC Lady Sandra Moor, Lady BrendaB Andrus-Advisor, Grand Lady MaryM Elair, Lady Doretha Johnson, LadyL Barbara Martin, Lady Stephanie Narciesse,N Lady Imelda Zenon, Lady RubyR Benoit, Chairlady-Lady Pearly Mae Narcisse and not pictured Lady Christine Zenon. Th e winners expressed their GraciousG i LLady d RitRita LLewis i heartfelt concerns to this committee and the Chair Lady Pearl Mae Narcisse for their Knights of Peter Claver, Fourth Degree wisdom and talent performed that night. Ladies of Grace St. Paul, Chapter No. 3 Th is committee expressed how they will continue to host this event in the years to come. Lafayette, Louisiania Submitted by: Brenda A. Andrus/Advisor 32 21 contain the bones of the three kings who bore gifts for 5. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain the baby Jesus on the night of his birth. But by far, the mercy culmination of the trip was the sleep-out on Saturday 6. Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see night, where we had an evening vigil with the Pope and God then celebrated mass with him on Sunday morning. My 7. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be parents had similar memories of the experience. My called the children of God mom said, “I’ll never forget looking up at the heavens 8. Blessed are they that suﬀ er persecution for justice’ from my sleeping bag, as we spent Saturday night in a misty sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven

fi eld with one million other Catholics. All I could think Th e poor in spirit, the mourners and the meek – was, ‘Wow, I can’t believe I’m here!” these are those of us who realize that we cannot gain My dad had similar thoughts, saying, “I’ll also salvation on our own. We need to go before God never forget the journey to Marienfeld, with sleeping bag humbly, accepting of the fact that we are sinners and in hand, to spend the night with no roof and one million that we are n need of Jesus’ intervention to make us people sharing and caring for one another in the spirit of ready to enter the kingdom. Given all of the focus in the Golden Rule.” today’s world on having the right clothes, the biggest Th e entire trip was truly an amazing experience, and house, fl ashy cars, designer purses and the like, the I’m not sure that I can do it justice in my short time Beatitudes are a great reminder to young people to not with you today. When I was writing and considering put our faith and value in the wrong things. “What what to speak to you about today, I started to think profi ts a man if he inherits the whole world, yet loses his about the most important message that I took from soul?” We were reminded that the one who we need to this trip. I asked my parents for their fi nal thoughts love, trust in and seek is God. In the grand scheme of as well. My mom said, “I have been humbled by this life, material possessions add nothing toward our eff orts pilgrimage. I must admit that on the return fl ight, while I of putting our hearts right with God. Th e way that we enjoyed the thought of coming home and being pampered, are called to be children of the Beatitudes is through I had a new and uplifting perspective on my faith. We are prayer, repentance and spreading God’s love through truly blessed...and God is good all of the time!” My dad our behavior. Jr. Daughter Kaina Robinson (Jr. Court #64) sang a solo for the St. Peter Claver Day celebration (Sept. 2006). was similarly overwhelmed, saying, “My daughter, Kacey, One of the most moving parts of the trip was She is the daughter of Lady Rhonda Mouton-Robinson and the Late Herman Robinson. was our navigator, getting us on time from one train to a viewing of the Passion of the Christ with the actor another to arrive at our destinations. My wife, Nell, was who portrayed Jesus in the movie, Jim Caveziel. At the always prepared – packing food, drink, fi rst-aid, and good end of the viewing, the entire stadium full of people humor. I felt blessed to be able to be with my family and began praying the rosary together. We were then asked the Knights and Ladies of Peter Claver and to share this to continue praying the rosary daily and to recommit faith experience with them.” ourselves to the faith by adhering to the doctrines of For me, the one memory that sticks out the most the Church. Benedict XVI asked us to give ourselves was from the Pope’s homily at the evening vigil at completely to the Catholic faith – to not just pick and Marienfeld. He simply stated, “You are called to be choose those pieces that we liked and ignore the others. the children of the Beatitudes.” Th e Beatitudes, We were called to recommit ourselves to chastity in order delivered by Jesus in his Sermon on the Mount, to honor the sacred bond of marriage. We were asked to are meant to describe the qualities of those who attend church regularly and discuss with others what we are “blessed” – not in worldly possessions, but in had learned. We were asked to be quick to forgive and spiritual enlightenment. Anyone who follows their slow to turn away from others. In short, we were called directives possesses qualities that bring them peace to be and do the things that are required in order to be and, more importantly, make them fi t to live in the the young people that Jesus wants. It was a moving faith kingdom of God. Th e Beatitudes clearly illustrate renewal. the path to living a life in-tune with the message of It is often said that prayer changes things. I know Jesus and, as Christians; we all strive to do so. that with the millions of us gathered together for the week-long celebration of World Youth Day, reciting Congratulations to the Jr. Texas State Conference which presented the Driscoll Children’s Hospital $1000.00 for it’s 1. Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the prayers and celebrating mass, our prayers were answered. sickle cell patients. Pictured below are the Jr. Texas State Presidents presenting the check. kingdom of heaven Th ank you for the opportunity to speak to you today 2. Blessed are they who mourn: for they shall be and share my experience. comforted 3. Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the Submitted by: land Kacey Bradley 4. Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fi ll

22 31 For me, this year’s World Youth Day was truly a once the people who were there. in a lifetime experience. But it was because of the hectic nature of this trip To be chosen as one of only two people to represent that I, and many others, can say that we now have friends the Western States District of the Knights of Peter who live all over the world. Believe me, when you are Claver was an honor in and itself. And while World trying to fi nd your way in a foreign country, you learn Youth Day happens every three years, this was the fi rst to make friends very quickly. I can’t tell you how many to be offi ciated by our new Holy Father, Pope Benedict pictures I have with total strangers. We exchanged small XVI, and in his home country of Germany. Along with gifts with one another – rosaries, bracelets and prayers ten other Emerging Leaders from our organization, each that were mementos of the people we met and their representing our other regional districts, my parents – home countries. But the love didn’t stop there. When Nell and James Bradley – and our national chaplain Hurricanes Katrina and Rita hit the southern U.S., we – Bishop Joseph Perry of Chicago – were also able to were fl ooded with emails from our host families and participate. new international friends. Th ey off ered sincere words Since my parents could not be here today, I asked of comfort: “We’re praying for you;” “Stick with God, them to write a couple of words about their experience. and don’t be troubled; he will provide;” “We remember I want to share those with you as I tell my story of this hearing many times New Orleans when you visited with trip. us, and we wanted you to know that we were worried and My mom wrote the following: “I will never forget the sending love and prayers your way.” It’s unbelievable to love, the camaraderie, the faith, the crowds, our prayers, witness the concern from these folks that we spent less and the trip home – and most importantly, having survived than a week with, some only a day or a few hours. And it all! My memories represent a collage of experiences; all I think their responses speak to what makes this event woven together to defi ne our ‘journey’ to see Pope Benedict so special – it’s one of the few times when young people XVI. And the journey was more than worth the trip. from around the world can come together for a positive Indeed, the journey WAS the trip. So many people expressed and shared cause: celebrating the life of Jesus Christ and love for us, particularly when we fi rst arrived. After 2 days our dedication to living his message. of searching and praying, we were fi nally able to locate our My dad was overwhelmed by the city itself, and I Peter Claver group. We had taken diff erent fl ights, and have to say it was quite amazing. He wrote the following: up until Wednesday, had not been able to contact them. “I was pleasantly surprised at how clean Cologne and its Miraculously, we met a woman named Yvonne who went suburbs were. Recycling paper products, bottles, and cans well out of her way to help us and who was able to put us in are an essential part of living in Germany. Streets were touch with the coordinator for our group – even though we made of cobblestone and picturesque homes with one car had only a fi rst name, ‘Hanna,’ and an incorrect telephone garages lined every inch of the cities we visited. Small, number. And I’ll never forget the crowds (1 million strong), compact cars are the status quo, and Germans use trains wall-to-wall Catholics from all nations...some willing to and other public transportation as their primary means of share a scarf to protect us from the heat...others giving us travel – a resource under-utilized in most of our country. some water...some saving a space for our group as we stood Th e citizens of Germany that I met were kind and sincere in line for nine hours to see the Pope....some in thoughtful in all of their interactions with us.” prayer...” My dad was also lucky enough to get very close to My mom’s description couldn’t be more accurate. the Pope during his arrival in the city of Cologne. We It’s hard to imagine unless you’ve been to an event of were all packed tightly into the main square surrounding this size before, but there were millions of people from the Cathedral and after squeezing through security and all over the world – France, Canada, Mexico, Italy, reuniting with one another; we got the chance we had Spain, Brazil, Chile, Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, China, and all been waiting for: “Waiting nine hours for a chance of course, Germany, to name just a few. Th ere wasn’t to see the Pope was exhausting but worth the wait. I was one day that we weren’t all packed onto trains and into within twenty-fi ve feet of the Pope and got a rare, candid stadiums to participate in various events. People were and close-up camera shot of him. Imagine waiting in a constantly shouting at each other, trying to fi gure out courtyard with 800,000 enthusiastic Catholics – this was where to go and fi ghting for position in line to see the like no rock concert or Woodstock. Th e throngs of people Pope whenever he was nearby. Songs and chants in waiting, clapping and chanting his name, ‘Benedicto!’ then innumerable languages were being sung throughout the suddenly surging uncontrollably against barricades just for days and nights. Th ousands of us lined up on the bridge a chance to see him.” over looking the Rhine River to watch the Pope as he I can’t possibly tell you everything that we were arrived in Cologne. I cannot even begin to tell you the able to do and see. But, for instance, my birthday is on number of times we were separated from one another Christmas and one of the great highlights for me was and reunited again – and that’s quite a feat given all of seeing the Shrine of the Th ree Magi, which is believed to

30 23 Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary Junior Branch 284 & Junior Court 284 My Experience Attending World Youth Day has truly changed my life in many ways and it is an experience that I will cherish forever. Before traveling to Germany, I thought that I would go over there and see a few churches, meet some new people from around the world, and listen HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CHURCH to the new Pope speak. I thought the trip would have AUSTIN, TEXAS no real aff ect on me and the way I did things. After the trip, I realized that I actually learned a lot about Highlights for Junior Branch 284 and Junior Court 284 are as follows: myself and about changes I could make to improve my Th e Junior Knights and Junior Daughters participated in the Annual MLK march, the Annual Juneteenth Parade at lifestyle. One of the major lessons learned was that I which they helped decorate the KPC fl oat, Black History Month Programs and Walk for Life. Th e Juniors collected needed to improve my relationship with God before I and distributed gifts, food, and cards to needy families in East Austin, and worked with the Meals-on-Wheels Groceries could truly be a successful person. God is the one who to Go. Th e Juniors have an annual project whereby they help make lunches and make distribution to the Homeless WhenhhP the Pope appeared, d my eyes were suddenly ddlfill fi lled will continue to protect me and help me make the right with tears of joy which made the waiting worthwhile. thru the KPC “Feed the Hungry” Brown Bag Project, and also assisted at the Church Bazaar by hosting the food/ decisions. drink booth. Th ey also delivered gifts, Christmas stockings, and dinners to families during the Christmas Holidays to Seeing the Pope was something that touched me in While in Germany, we visited diff erent churches, had a very special way as the words that he shared were Hurricane Katrina Evacuees and St. Louise House. Th ey conducted a project at the Austin Area Food Bank, set up a prayer sessions every morning, and met diff erent people love basket for parishioners serving in Iraq, and assisted with the Annual Church Fish Fry. important and actually related to my everyday life. I from all over the world. Th e churches in Germany are also cherished the fact that I saw such an important very beautiful and very diff erent from those in the United Over the years, while attending State Conferences and National Conventions, they have won almost every KPC Junior fi gure in our religion and few people can say that they States. Most of the churches had beautiful architectural have seen the Pope. award. During the Texas Junior State Conference held March 24-26, 2006, the following Juniors won the indicated details on the inside and outside. awards: Nathaniel Opara 3rd Place – Mathematics; Darrel Okereke – 3rd Place Spelling; Caryn Nicole Gay: State Overall the trip was a life altering experience. I am so Junior Daughter of the Year, tied 1st Place - Dance Solo, 2nd Place - Art; Tiff any Okereke: 3rd Place in Spelling, 3rd grateful for the opportunity to improve my faith and my Place -Painting and Drawing: Mariah Lee: 1st Place - Spelling; Brittany Gay: Junior Texas State Lady of Prayer; Caryn relationship with God. I would like to thank everyone Nicole Gay / Brittany Gay /Taylor Tidwell: 2nd Place - Dance Group, and Junior Daughter Court284 was named who made my presence on this trip possible. I would State Junior Court of the Year. Past Junior Daughter Grand Lady, Shaunte Collins was a recipient of a Texas Junior State Conference Scholarship Award and a KPC National $1,000 Scholarship Award.

Th e KPC Juniors participate in many ministries of Holy Cross Catholic Church to include Lectors, Ushers, Youth Group, Altar Servers and Liturgical Dancers.

We, the members of Junior Branch 284 and Junior Court 284 are proud of our beneﬁ cial service to the Knights of Peter Claver & Ladies Auxiliary, our Church and our Community.

Respectfully submitted, Sometimes it appears that young people choose KPC Junior Branch 284 and Junior Court 284 not attend church and build a relationship with God. Attending World Youth Day shows one an enormous amount of young people who are very excited to be there and celebrate their faith. All of the young people were excited to attend and very grateful for the once also likelik to t thank th k the th people l with ith whom h I attended tt d d this th in a lifetime opportunity. Th is was touching because trip for helping to make it a great experience. If anyone sometimes we tend to take things for granted and not ever has the opportunity to improve her/his faith or appreciate the opportunities we are given. I was so relationship with God, be it through World Youth Day happy that we met so many faithful young people and or anything else, just say yes! You will learn a lot about grateful that they touched my life so profoundly. yourself and your life will be forever changed for the Th e day that we waited to see the Pope was very better. tedious because it was really hot outside and a ton of people were becoming impatient. After waiting for a Submitted by: couple of hours, the Pope came outside to great the crowd. Candace Procter 24 29

Spiritual Rediscovery Benedict XVI is the fi rst pope that I have ever gotten EXTRA! EXTRA! Read all about it …… A Spiritual Experience Written by some of the emerging leaders who attended the World Youth Day in Cologne, Germany. College is one of the times where many people seem to know and see in full health and in full command of (Th is is a continuation from the 2005 Winter Claverite Issue.) to lost track of our spiritual lives as we seek to grasp our the Church. From the time that we saw him enter the social and emotional lives. We are busy making friends, Church where he prayed before coming out to talk to fi nding girlfriends/boyfriends, keeping up with classes us, you could feel the presence of God from the Pope to World Youth Day Pilgrimage daughters. I had the wonderful opportunity of living and discovering fi rst hand just how often laundry needs the crowd. A couple of people that I talked to watched I received a letter and phone calls as well as important with Travian Th icklen, Ariyon Julien and Candace to be done. College is for many people, the fi rst time his boat as he came towards the church, and they all information via email in regards to the 2005 World Proctor. Our host family called us their “funny girls.” that they experience life on their own, without parental said that a light opened up from the sky and shone only Youth Day in Cologne, Germany. At the same time, I We had the experience of attending mass daily with our supervision; it is our fi rst taste of what independent life on the Holy Father, and followed him until he left the was a recent high school graduate preparing myself to host family, delegates from Canada and our KPC group. in the real world is. College can seem to be a never ending boat to come and speak to the crowd. I don’t doubt that begin a new chapter in my life as a college student. As Th is was incredible because everything was in German, roller coaster that does not stop no matter what crisis story for a minute, and when he came out to see all of us a Junior Daughter, I had the incredible opportunity following the English translation. seems to happen in your life. However, for many people, waiting to hear his message, I literally felt the Holy Spirit to serve as the Junior Supreme Lady of the Junior Th roughout the journey, we took each day as a new as I discovered, one of the best ways to counteract the moving in the crowd. Pope Benedict XVI talked about Daughters Division. I felt so honored to be asked to experience. Our group shared experiences of traveling relentless pace of college life is to return to the church the importance of us being missionaries for Christ, the travel to Europe to represent the Junior Daughters. Th e by plane together, waiting in long lines for trains and that made us who we are. I found this to be especially importance of shamelessly displaying our faith. Th is was day before I left for Europe, I was initiated as a Senior subways, attending masses together, loosing our luggage necessary in a secular university, where unlike the the most important thing that he said for me because Lady into the organization. Th e experience of World together and seeing millions of young people praying Catholic high school I was used to, there is absolutely not being in a religious institution it becomes a greater Youth Day is an event that I am so grateful and thrilled and praising for the Lord. Also, an astonishing view was no spiritual involvement unless you seek it out yourself; challenge to keep the faith in a world that continues to to share with the Claver family. the display of fl ags from every country represented. Th e for many people seeking out a greater spirituality can grow more secular and where the doctrine of relativism Prior to the trip, I knew it was extremely important most enduring and magnifi cent experience was the true be a changing point in their lives permanently. My is trying to prevail over Christ and absolute truth. Th e that I had to prepare everything with my college before pilgrimage to see and hear the words of Pope Benedict experiences that I had as part of World Youth Day in Holy Father calls on us not only to be proud of being I left the United States. I sacrifi ced the experience of XVI. Germany allowed me to refocus where I was spiritually Catholic when we are at World Youth Day, but when we moving into the college dorms, intense orientation My parents have always taught me that “everything and also changed the way I dealt with a hectic life as a are at home or at college and people are less excited about processes, purchasing expensive materials and textbooks happens for a reason.” Th is spiritual journey is one that college student when I returned to the United States. God and the Church. We are called to be missionaries for my classes and the fi rst day of school as a college I will forever remember and share with others. I feel it World Youth Day was the fi rst opportunity that I by going to church ourselves, which is something that I student. I must admit I was extremely nervous about gave me the strength to make it through the beginning ever had to see Europe, and the fact that we were going began doing this year that has really helped ground my the transition, but I knew with the dedication and of my college experience. Th e Holy Father encouraged to see the Holy Father made my fi rst trip even more life in the middle of trying to assemble some sense of motivation of my family, and with the cooperation of us to spread our joy of Catholicism and our love for exciting. Europe was a extremely diff erent from the US, normalcy in a hectic college life. Th e Church is alive, school offi cials and KPC leaders, I could make this event God to each other in Cologne as well as to our family from things like having to pay for bathrooms to their but it in order for it to grow we must not relent in the a reality. Missing the initial college experience could be of and friends. transportation system. But the most magnifi cent parts face of growing pessimism about our faith. Th e growth no comparison to what I would see and do in Germany. Th ank you so much to the National Offi ce and the of Germany by far were the churches. Th e churches that of moral relativism, the attempt to destroy the culture I had never traveled to Europe and had never attended Senior National Boards for making it possible for us to we saw such as the Church of the Th ree Kings had such of life and the spread of Islam are great challenges to college. Th e question I had to ask myself was “Which travel on this spiritual journey. Th ank you to Bishop life like sculptures as well as large beautiful altars. When our faith as the world attempts to turn its back on one?” Even with the four years of anticipating my fi rst Joseph Perry, who we gave the name “BP,” for praying we prayed with others from all over the world, you Christ, but we must band together to defeat these three day of college, Europe, with the promise of being in the with us and teaching us about diff erent aspects of the could really feel God’s presence in the entire room. In great evils that threaten our existence as Christians and presence of the Holy Father, was the answer. As a stood Church. Bishop Perry was the most impressive leader the opening ceremony, fl ags from almost every country Catholics, and we must not be afraid to be who we are. in his presence, I knew I had answered the question and friend to all of us on the trip. I feel so blessed to in the world were laid down on the fl oor of a stadium Each one of these three things seeks to destroy our very correctly. have experienced this opportunity and to be fi lled with in Cologne. All of the fl ags are a sign that the Church is way of life and to destroy the things that we value most World Youth Day was the fi rst opportunity for me the presence of so many youth from all over the world. fl ourishing, and will continue to be a relevant object of as Catholics by attempting to undermine Christ for an to travel to Europe. I was ready and willing to see the Th e blessing of the Pope is a gift that I will carry with our lives forever. Th e week’s theme, Th e Church is alive! evil agenda that seeks to destroy Christianity. We must diff erences from the United States and Germany. I did me throughout my life. Th e most productive way I can was echoed in the message of Pope Benedict when he always be willing to stand up for Christ even in a world expect things to be diff erent, but I was unsure of how say thank you and honor the Knights of Peter Claver addressed all of us last summer. where many seek to destroy Him and his Word. It may diff erent it would really be. Everything - and I mean and the World Youth Day organization is to live a Although many of you have known our former not be easy, but it will always be right; as Christ sacrifi ced everything - was unlike anything in the United States. daily commitment to our noble order and the Catholic pope, Pope John Paul II, I never saw him when he was his live so that we may have eternal life, so too must we It was amazing to see how things were so dissimilar. Church. in full health. Th e years of my life when I have been be willing to stand up for our truth and for our God. Th e roads, the transportation systems, the houses, the able to recognize and understand the signifi cance of the bathrooms, the people, and the Churches were certainly Submitted by: pope, Pope John Paul II was in poor health and I never Submitted by: diff erent than what I found in my hometown in Lady Raimy Living really got to see him in full strength. So for me, Pope Michael A. Donnella Louisiana. I can remember it as though it was yesterday St. Anthony Ct. 16, Lafayette, LA how my host mom and dad treated us just like their

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