Diocese of Saint Petersburg
The Black Catholic Ministry of the Diocese of Saint Petersburg provided support for the annual Archbishop James Patterson Lyke Conference, held in Tampa, Florida on June 17-20, 2025. The Lyke Conference, the nation’s premier Black Catholic liturgical event, is named after the late liturgist Archbishop James P. Lyke, OFM. It was founded in 2004. The mission of the Lyke Foundation, which sponsors the Lyke Conference, is to annually gather those involved in the liturgical practices within the Black Catholic community. A popular and strong aspect of the Conference is the Fr. Clarence Rivers Music Institute, with its strong focus on gospel music. The theme of the 2025 Conference was “This Little Light of Mine: Celebrating Our Black Catholic Faith.”
The Saint Petersburg Black Catholic Ministry assisted the Conference by providing the hospitality suite for the presenters. This was a space where they could have a relaxing break, connect with each other and collaborate. The ministry played host by also providing meals, beverages and snacks throughout the days for the presenters. The Black Catholic Ministry was assisted by members of the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, Court #379.
