Most Rev. John H. Ricard S.S.J.
Feb. 29, 1940 – May 20, 2026
One of the most influential Black Catholic voices in the United States during a time of important conversations about race, civil rights and the Church’s role in confronting injustice
“Bishop John Ricard’s death is a profound loss for our local Church and for the entire Catholic community in the United States. As the first Black bishop in the history of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, he served this archdiocese with grace, humility and a joyful spirit that made him beloved by all who encountered him. Bishop Ricard was deeply committed to the dignity of every human life, and he was unafraid to speak out against racism and injustice wherever he saw them. He lived out the charism of the Josephites – showing a prophetic vision for the inclusion of Black Catholics in the life of the Church and an unwavering commitment to justice – right up to his last days. May his soul rest in peace.”
-Archbishop William E. Lori
- May 25, 1968, ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Emmet Tracy of Baton Rouge
- 1978-1981, Consultor General for the Josephite Fathers
- 1984-1997, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Baltimore
- 1987-2017, President of the National Black Catholic Congress
- 1997-2011, Bishop of the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee
- 2019-2026, Superior General of the St. Joseph’s Society of the Sacred Heart
Read more about Bishop Ricard’s life and legacy
“Bishop Ricard faithfully served the Catholic Church for decades through his ministry as a Josephite priest, counselor, educator, pastor, bishop, humanitarian and leader,” the statement said. “He devoted his life to the proclamation of the Gospel, humanitarian efforts worldwide, the mission of the Josephite Society, and the pastoral care of God’s people, especially within Black Catholic communities.”
-St. Joseph’s Society of the Sacred Heart
