By Maureen Smith
JACKSON – More than 300 Knights and Ladies of Peter Claver gathered in downtown Jackson the weekend of May 3-4 for a regional conference. At the closing Mass chaplain, Father Vernon Huguley, urged them to “be people of the resurrection, not crucifiers.” The Mass included a roll call and prayers for all the Knights and Ladies who have died during the past year.

At a banquet following the Mass keynote speaker, Jackson Police Chief Lindsey Horton, spoke about the ongoing problem of drugs in every community. He urged everyone in attendance to reach out to someone they may know who struggles with addiction. Different chapters and knights and ladies were recognized at the banquet for outstanding work.

At every conference the group selects a local charity to support. This year, Catholic Charities got a cash donation in addition to a large collection of baby items. Executive Director Greg Patin thanked the members for their generosity and told them their baby donations will help the Born Free, New Beginnings program which helps mothers and pregnant women who are coping with addiction.
One historical note, this was the first conference attended by three former Supreme Knights and two former Supreme Ladies, offering a wealth of experience and history to the gathering.