Andrew and Terri Lyke: Advocates for Marriage, Faith, and Family

Andrew and Terri Lyke are nationally recognized leaders in Catholic marriage ministry, whose decades of dedication have inspired countless couples to strengthen their relationships through faith, commitment, and open dialogue. For over 49 years, their marriage has served as a living testament to the principles they teach, blending personal experience with a deep understanding of the spiritual and practical dimensions of marital life.

National Leaders in Catholic Marriage Ministry

As authors, speakers, and facilitators, Andrew and Terri have spent much of their lives promoting strong, faith-filled marriages, particularly within the Black Catholic community. Their ministry is rooted in a profound belief that marriage is a sacred institution, central to the health and vitality of families and communities. Over the years, they have developed and implemented innovative programs, workshops, and retreats to help couples navigate the complexities of modern relationships while staying grounded in Christian values. 

Facilitating retreats, workshops, relationship coaching, and parish consultations, their mission has been to raise our sights on how we, the body of Christ, live in the Light of God's grace through the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. Highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the couple and the community, they promote an "African worldview," recognizing the "I" in the "We" for the mutual support between marriage and community. 

Syndicated Columnists: “Family Reflections”

In addition to their hands-on ministry work, the Lykes are accomplished writers. They are the co-creators of Family Reflections, a bi-weekly syndicated column that was featured in Catholic publications nationwide from 1993 to 2002. Through thought-provoking and heartfelt bi-weekly articles on ways God manifests in family life, Andrew and Terri shared insights on marriage, parenting, faith, and community life, drawing on both personal anecdotes and broader societal trends. Their engaging and relatable writing made them beloved figures among readers seeking guidance and encouragement in their family journeys.

Authors of "Marriage On A Lampstand"

Andrew and Terri are also the co-authors of Marriage On A Lampstand: Exploring a New Paradigm for Modern Christian Marriage (Heavenly Light Press). This groundbreaking book challenges traditional notions of marriage and offers fresh perspectives for couples striving to build strong, enduring partnerships in today’s world. Combining theology, personal stories, and practical advice, the book has become a valuable resource for couples at all stages of their marital journey, as well as for clergy and lay leaders involved in marriage preparation and enrichment. It offers foundations and a blueprint for marriage faith formation for couples and their faith communities.

Contributions to the Healthy Marriage Initiative

The Lykes’ influence extends beyond the Catholic Church, as they played a pivotal role in the federally funded Healthy Marriage Initiative. Their expertise was instrumental in shaping programs aimed at reducing divorce rates and promoting stable, healthy marriages across diverse communities. Their involvement in this initiative underscores their commitment to fostering marital success not just as a spiritual vocation, but as a vital societal goal.

Advocates for Black Catholic Empowerment

Deeply committed to their roots, Andrew and Terri have been powerful voices for Black Catholic empowerment, championing initiatives that celebrate cultural identity while fostering unity within the broader Catholic Church. Their work often emphasizes the unique challenges and strengths of Black couples, offering culturally relevant approaches to marriage ministry that resonate deeply with the communities they serve.

Through their writing, speaking, and advocacy, Andrew and Terri Lyke continue to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of Catholic marriage ministry. Their work has enriched the lives of countless couples and families, affirming the transformative power of love, faith, and partnership.

The Lykes were married in 1975 and began their life in marriage ministry in 1981 when they, with other couples and priests began Marriage Ministry for the Black Community in the Archdiocese of Chicago. They designed the Arusi Retreat in 1994 and have presented the weekend program in dioceses across the United States and in the Caribbean. They served as advisors to the USCCB committee on Marriage and Family. From 1999 to 2009, Andrew served the Archdiocese of Chicago as the Coordinator of Marriage Ministry. In that role he was the principal writer of In The Spirit of Cana—Guidelines for Pastoral Outreach to Christian Marriage: Formation, Preparation, Celebration, and Continuing Education. In 2011, he was rehired as the Director of the Office for Black Catholics, a role in which he served until 2015.

In 2016, they hosted the National Black Catholic Marriage & Family Symposium in Chicago. Since retiring from full-time ministry, they have done infrequent virtual webinars and collaborations on various ministry projects related to marriage and family life, Catholic anti-racist activism, and Black Catholic empowerment. 

Terri and Andrew are "Mom and Dad" to two adults, "Nana and Papa" to six grand-blessings.