Join the vibrant community of St. Peter Claver Church for a series of upcoming events designed to inspire, educate, and unite. From honoring Black Catholic history to celebrating priestly milestones and fostering future generations, there’s something for everyone at St. Peter Claver Church. We warmly invite you to participate and become a part of our parish family.
Honoring Black History Month at St. Peter Claver Church
St. Peter Claver Church is proud to announce a special celebration in honor of Black History Month, recognizing the rich heritage and contributions of the African community within our parish and beyond. We invite you to join us for a meaningful event dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating Black history.
This event at St. Peter Claver Church will feature members of our local African community, offering a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and understanding. Following the program, all attendees are invited to a reception in the parish hall, fostering fellowship and community spirit.
Your generous food donations to support this celebration are greatly appreciated. If you are able to contribute to the food reception or would like to offer assistance, please contact Dale Brown at [email protected]. Your support will help make this Black History Month celebration at St. Peter Claver Church a memorable and impactful occasion.
November: Black Catholic History Month at St. Peter Claver Church and Beyond
November holds a special significance for Catholics of African descent as Black Catholic History Month. Established in 1990 by the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus (NBCCC), November was chosen due to its convergence of important dates that resonate deeply with Black Catholic heritage. St. Peter Claver Church recognizes and honors this designated month with reflection and learning.
Key dates within Black Catholic History Month include:
- November 1: All Saints Day: A time to reflect upon the lives of numerous Saints of African descent who played significant roles in the early Church. St. Peter Claver Church encourages parishioners to learn about these inspiring figures.
- November 2: All Souls Day: A solemn day of remembrance for all those of African descent who suffered during the Middle Passage, a tragic chapter in history. St. Peter Claver Church joins in remembrance and prayer.
- November 3: Feast Day of St. Martin de Porres: Celebrating the first Black American saint, canonized in 1962. St. Martin de Porres’ life exemplified God’s universal love, a message embraced by St. Peter Claver Church.
- November 13: Birth of St. Augustine: Marking the birth of St. Augustine of Hippo, a North African and Doctor of the Church, whose theological contributions are revered. St. Peter Claver Church acknowledges his profound influence.
- November 20: Death of Zumbi of Palmares: Remembering Zumbi, a leader who established a free state for Blacks in Brazil, symbolizing resilience and the fight for freedom. St. Peter Claver Church honors his legacy.
The inaugural Black Catholic History Month in November 1990 included celebrations across the United States, often centered around the Feast Day of St. Martin de Porres. In Detroit, Archbishop Adam Maida presided over a special Mass at St. Anthony Church, with Bro. Roy Smith, then President of the NBCCC, also in attendance.
Globally, there are over 200 million people of African descent within the Roman Catholic Church, a vibrant and integral part of the Catholic faith. St. Peter Claver Church is committed to celebrating this diversity and rich history.
Visit spclavertampa.flocknote.com for more information about St. Peter Claver Church and upcoming events.
Celebrating 25 Years of Priesthood at St. Peter Claver Church
Dear Parishioners of St. Peter Claver Church,
This year marks a significant milestone as our beloved Fr. Agustinus Seran, SVD Pastor, celebrates his 25th anniversary of priesthood on October 7, 2024. Reflecting on this joyous occasion and his dedicated ministry at St. Peter Claver Church, Fr. Agustinus has initiated a special endeavor to give back to the community that has supported him.
To commemorate this anniversary and invest in the future of St. Peter Claver Church, Fr. Agustinus has established an “Education Endowment Fund.” The ambitious goal is to raise $50,000 to support future generations within our parish. Parishioners are also invited to establish family name scholarships with a minimum contribution of $10,000, payable in installments over five years.
Fr. Agustinus expresses his deep gratitude for the love, care, and support he has received at St. Peter Claver Church, making it a cherished place of worship. He invites everyone to prayerfully consider contributing to the Education Endowment Fund, ensuring a bright future for St. Peter Claver Church and its community.
Vocations at St. Peter Claver Church: A Shared Responsibility
St. Peter Claver Church believes that fostering vocations is a collective responsibility. We encourage all parishioners to pray for more vocations to the priesthood and religious life, and to support those who are currently discerning or undergoing formation.
Have you ever considered a vocation? If you feel a calling to serve the Church, St. Peter Claver Church encourages you to explore this path.
For more information about St. Peter Claver Church, including parish information and links, please visit our website or contact the parish office. We welcome you to join our community at St. Peter Claver Church!
