John Huston Ricard facts for kids

Styles of John Huston Ricard
Reference style	His Excellency The Most Reverend
Spoken style	Your Excellency
Religious style	Bishop

John Huston Ricard, a member of the Josephite Fathers (SSJ), was an important leader in the Roman Catholic Church in America. He was born on February 29, 1940, and passed away on May 20, 2026. He served as the leader, called the superior general, of the Josephites from 2019 until his death. Before that, he was the Bishop of Pensacola-Tallahassee in Florida from 1997 to 2011. He also served as an Auxiliary Bishop in Baltimore, Maryland, from 1984 to 1997.

John Huston Ricard: A Life of Service

Early Life and Education

John Huston Ricard was born on February 29, 1940, in New Roads, Louisiana. His family had Creole heritage. He was also a cousin to Archbishop Shelton Fabre. After finishing high school in New Orleans in 1958, he decided to join the Josephites. He then continued his studies at Epiphany Apostolic College and St. Joseph's Seminary in Washington, D.C.

Becoming a Priest and Community Work

On May 25, 1968, Ricard became a priest. Bishop Robert Tracy led his ordination ceremony. After becoming a priest, he worked as an associate pastor, helping the main priest, at a church in New Orleans. In 1970, he earned a master's degree from Tulane University.

Later, he moved to Washington, D.C., where he served as a pastor at several churches. He also taught at Catholic University of America from 1976 to 1978. In 1983, he earned a doctorate degree from Catholic University.

Serving as Auxiliary Bishop in Baltimore

On May 25, 1984, Pope John Paul II chose Ricard to be an auxiliary bishop for Baltimore. An auxiliary bishop helps the main bishop with his duties. He was consecrated, or officially made a bishop, on July 2, 1984.

Bishop Ricard played a key role in bringing back the National Black Catholic Congress (NBCC) in 1987. This organization supports Black Catholics and their communities. He served as the president of the NBCC from its revival until 2019.

Leading as Bishop in Florida

On January 20, 1997, Pope John Paul II appointed Ricard as the bishop of Pensacola-Tallahassee. He officially began his new role on March 13, 1997. As bishop, he spoke out against the mistreatment of people during conflicts.

During his time as bishop, Ricard held many important leadership positions. He was the chair of Catholic Relief Services from 1995 to 2002. This organization helps people in need around the world. He also served on committees for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). In December 2009, Bishop Ricard experienced a stroke.

Retirement and Continued Leadership

Due to his health, Bishop Ricard sent a letter to Pope Benedict XVI in February 2011, asking to retire. The Pope accepted his resignation on March 11, 2011.

Leading the Josephite Community

After retiring as bishop, Ricard continued his service. In June 2011, he became the rector, or leader, of St. Joseph's Seminary. In June 2019, he was elected as the superior general of the Josephites. This meant he led the entire Josephite community. He was reelected to this role in 2023. He also joined Archbishop Wilton Gregory in calling for justice and fairness for all people.

Remembering Bishop Ricard

John Huston Ricard passed away in Washington, D.C., on May 20, 2026. He was 86 years old.

See also

Episcopal succession