News Summary
The newly formed Knights of Peter Claver chapter in Orange County revitalizes the rich legacy of Black Catholics. Founded in 2021, they face challenges but are committed to community engagement. Their efforts include outreach, fundraising, and promoting awareness within the local Catholic community. This initiative signifies a powerful step forward for Black Catholics in an area lacking representation.
Knights of Peter Claver Chapter Takes Root in Orange County, Celebrating a Rich Legacy
If you think the vibrant history of Black Catholics can’t be found in Orange County, think again! This very community is experiencing a revitalization thanks to the newly formed chapter of the Knights of Peter Claver. Grounded in a legacy that stretches back over a century, this organization shines a light on the African American Catholic experience in an area that has seen its share of challenges.
From Alabama to California: A Journey of Faith
Consider the life of Prince Powe, who grew up in Mobile, Alabama during the turbulent 1950s. Mobile is not just any city; it’s known as a historic hub for Black Catholics, and interestingly enough, it’s also the birthplace of the Knights of Peter Claver, established in 1909 to provide a fraternal order specifically for Black men. Powe carries the legacy of his family who were proud members of this historic group.
While Powe enjoyed the lively atmosphere of his local Catholic school with plenty of baptisms, weddings, and first communions, he also faced the harsh realities of segregation. White and Black Catholics had their own separate parishes, and sadly, the facilities for white parishes were often much nicer. His personal experience included being turned away from the Knights of Columbus because of his race—an organization that only accepted white members.
A New Chapter in a New Home
Fast forward to 1985, when Powe relocated to Orange County, a place where the Black population hovers around a mere 2.6%. Despite the low numbers, Powe felt welcomed and plunged right into church life, eventually joining the Knights of Columbus. Yet, after the tragic events surrounding George Floyd’s murder, Powe felt an inner void. Something was missing! That feeling led him and fellow men from the Diocese of Orange to establish this new chapter of the Knights of Peter Claver in 2021.
Facing Challenges and Building Community
The Knights of Peter Claver in Orange County encounter numerous hurdles, such as declining church attendance and the challenge of sharing the Catholic social teachings effectively. Did you know that only 6% of Black Americans identify as Catholic? Even more surprising, just 4% of Catholics are Black, making the Knights “minorities twice over.” Most Black Catholics can be found across the South, in cities like Baltimore and Chicago. Yet Orange County lacks a dedicated Black Catholic parish, which complicates the ability for Black Catholics to connect with each other.
Interestingly, the only church in the area dedicated to a Black saint is St. Martin de Porres in Yorba Linda—home to a Black population of only 1%. Powe himself revealed that he could count just two other Black parishioners during the eleven years he attended his church, highlighting the isolation many Black Catholics feel. Some have even chosen to worship in Los Angeles due to discomfort in their local communities.
A Community on the Rise
Nevertheless, the Knights are making strides. They have been proactive in community outreach, from co-sponsoring a gospel Mass to joining a procession against immigration raids. Their fundraising efforts have exceeded expectations, raising nearly $5,000—a testament to their commitment. Membership has also doubled to about 20 individuals, including non-Black members, which is unique among other chapters.
Awareness and Visibility
The newly formed Knights of Peter Claver are looking to cultivate greater visibility within the Catholic community and have plans for outreach activities that will help integrate them into broader Orange County Catholic life. Leading this mission is Father Greg Walgenbach, one of the founding members of the Orange County chapter, who acknowledges the long-standing exclusion of Black Catholics from public Catholic life in the region.
With discussions around the potential elevation of a Creole pontiff in the future, awareness about Black and Creole identities in the Catholic Church may grow, encouraging even more men to join the ranks of the Knights. Future plans for engagement include involvement in various parish ministries and promoting anti-racism initiatives, while being thoughtful about how they frame social justice efforts.
Building a Bright Future
In summary, the Knights of Peter Claver in Orange County are committed not just to their own legacy but to the broader community. They are working hard to be seen, heard, and included in the larger tapestry of Orange County’s Catholic life. With newfound energy and a passion for connection, they’re sowing the seeds for a brighter future!
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Knights of Peter Claver in Orange County
- Wikipedia: Knights of Peter Claver
- WKRG: 75th Anniversary of St. Martin de Porres Hospital
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Black Catholics in the United States
- WKRG: Alex Crow Officially Defrocked
- Google Search: Knights of Peter Claver
- AL.com: Alabama’s Law Prohibiting Priest Nun Costumes
- Google News: Black Catholicism
- AL.com: Repeal of HB 56
- Google Scholar: Black Catholics
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
