Andrew Lyke

Andrew Lyke is a respected figure in Catholic ministry, widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in marriage preparation and advocacy for Black Catholic empowerment. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Andrew has dedicated his life to uplifting others through faith, education, and service.

For over four decades, Andrew and his wife, Terri, have been national leaders in Catholic marriage ministry. Together, they co-founded Arusi Network, Inc., a pioneering organization dedicated to strengthening marriages, particularly within the Black Catholic community. Their innovative programs have helped countless couples build stronger, faith-centered relationships and have earned them national recognition as trusted voices in the field of marriage enrichment.

Andrew’s expertise extends beyond marriage ministry. As a gifted speaker, author, and educator, he has led workshops and retreats across the country, focusing on topics such as cultural competence in ministry, social justice, and the unique spiritual and cultural contributions of Black Catholics. He has contributed articles to numerous Catholic publications and co-authored a book with Terri, entitled Marriage On A Lampstand: Exploring a New Paradigm for Modern Christian Marriage, offering practical insights and inspiration for couples and ministry leaders alike.

In addition to his work in marriage ministry, Andrew has been an advocate for the empowerment of Black Catholics, tirelessly working to ensure their voices are heard and their contributions recognized within the wider Church. His leadership has inspired greater awareness of the richness and diversity of the Catholic faith tradition.

Andrew’s legacy is deeply rooted in his commitment to family and community. He and Terri have been married for 49 years, exemplifying the enduring strength of a Christ-centered marriage. They are proud parents of Andréa Lyke-Senegal and Martin P. Lyke, both who shares their passion for service and ministry.

Andrew is the retired Director of the Office for Black Catholics in the Archdiocese of Chicago. He served in that role from 2011 to 2015. He served the Archdiocese of Chicago as the Coordinator of Marriage Ministry from 1999 to 2009.  

Andrew is also an anti-racism activist. As a campus minister at DePaul University in the mid-1990s, he facilitated focus groups with students, faculty, and staff using the “Recovery From Racisms” curriculum. For 14 years, he was a founding member of the “Dwell In My Love” Anti-Racism Taskforce for the Archdiocese of Chicago. In 2012, he was part of a cultural immersion trip to Ghana in West Africa. In 2010 he and Terri were part of a “Pilgrimage of Pain and Hope” in Uganda in East Africa with four fellow parishioners of Sacred Heart parish in Joliet, Illinois. 

He is a cancer survivor, diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in 2015 and again in 2017. Now cancer free, he continues anti-racism advocacy as a consultant and on various Social Media, as well as the marriage ministry work with Terri. 

Now in his 70s, Andrew continues to inspire and guide others with wisdom, humility, and unwavering faith, leaving an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and beyond.