Knights of Peter Claver at 1825 Orleans Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116-2825 US - Home

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History shows that trials and tribulations test the mettle and bring out the best in
those servants of God whose lives are grounded in humility, patience, and
complete submission to the will of God. Peter Claver is an excellent example
of this. Born June 26, 1580 in Verdu, Spain of noble and well-to-do parents. In
1604 he took the vows of the Society of Jesus' in Tarragona. On March 19,
1616, he was ordained a priest in Cartagena, Colombia, South America, On
April 3, 1622, he solemnly promised to be the "Slave of the Black Slaves
Forever"

Cartagena was a port that was part of the "Middle Passage," where
approximately 1,000 slaves landed every month. By the "Apostolate of
Presence," Father Claver proved himself a friend and advocate to the poor
and slaves. Braving social ostracism, he administered to the ill, cleaning their
wounds and feeding them. After 40 years of serving Christ and the poor, tens
of thousands had embraced the Faith, responding to his language of love.
From these, Father Claver and his followers assisted in the services to others.
We believe that these were the first real Knights and Ladies of St. Peter Claver.
Peter Claver completed his stay on earth September 8, 1654. Pope Leo XIII
declared him a Saint January 15, 1888.

Additional information on St. Peter Claver can be found at www.cartagenainfo.net/saintpeterclaver

The Knights of Peter Claver was originally founded November 7, 1909 in Mobile Alabama as an organization to allow men of color membership in a Catholic fraternal society.  The organization was incorporated July 12, 1911 at Mobile, Alabama.  Divisions of the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc were established as follows:

• 1917 Fourth Degree ( Authorized)
• 1917 Junior Knights (Authorized)
• 1922 Ladies Auxiliary (Authorized)
• 1926 Ladies Auxiliary Division ( Established)
• 1930 Junior Daughters Division (Established)
• 1935 Junior Knights Division (Established)
• 1980 Ladies of Grace Meritorious Division (Established)

With strong support of The Church throughout the years, now has over 700 subordinate units throughout the United States and a Unit in Colombia, South America. Headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, the Order is comprised of over 18,000 Catholic family members. We continue our expansion efforts welcoming all Catholics to join. The Order is a member of the International Alliance Catholic Knights. 

• To be a supporter to the local parishes and to the Bishop of the diocese
• To participate collectively in various parish and community activities
• To promote civic improvements and social justice
• To encourage Lay Apostolic and Catholic action
• To make contributions to worthwhile causes
• To award scholarships and support education
• To foster recreational assemblies and facilities
• To develop youth in a positive, nurturing environment
• To provide social and intellectual fellowship for its members

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Knights of Peter Claver, Inc
1825 Orleans Avenue
New Orleans, Louisiana 70116-2894
Office; (504) 821-4225
FAX: (504) 821-4253
Email: info@kofpc.org