Who are the Knights of Columbus? |
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Wednesday, 03 February 2010 00:00 |
In 1882, Father Michael J. McGivney invited a small group of parishioners to St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Conn. His goal was to establish an order that would unite men in their faith and help provide for Catholic families in times of need.
Based on four core principles — charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism — these founding members helped overcome the hardships of the time, including poverty, unemployment and persecution.
These collective efforts have resulted in the largest Catholic fraternal and humanitarian organization ever created, an organization that has endured for more than a century because of the inspirational courage of so many.
Knights are Catholic men, at least 18 years old, who are committed to making their community a better place while supporting the church. Being a Knight is more than camaraderie; it is being involved with a neighbor in need; it is supporting a local parish, while enhancing your own faith; it is about protecting and enhancing family life.
There are 1.6 million members of the Knights of Columbus. It is an organization that, since 1882, has helped overcome poverty, ignorance and apathy, all things which imperil not only a single individual, but the whole of humanity. Together, Knights have raised more than $1 billion to help feed and clothe millions where the need is the greatest. They are men of faith, comprising more than 12,000 Knights of Columbus councils at home and overseas. They are guided not only by their belief in God and the church, but by belief in each other and in themselves.
The Knights of Columbus is an organization fortified by its past and driven by its goals for the future. It’s through service that the members truly make a difference. They support religious outreach, promote vocations and provide financial support for seminarians and postulates. This way, they help support the church and strengthen personal faith. As committed as they are to the Catholic church, they are also to their communities.
As fathers and husbands, serving families is not only part of what they do, it is part of who they are. To that end, Knights of Columbus councils offer programs that strengthen family and marital bonds with family-focused events, including the “Family of the Month” program that honors outstanding families.
Knights are able to provide assistance and support to other members and their families whenever needed. Many local councils sponsor Columbian Squire Circles, the order’s official youth organization for Catholic young men, ages 10 to 18, which provides them the opportunity to develop leadership skills.
Additionally, through activities such as the Catholic family holiday events, the Substance Abuse Poster contest and the annual Free Throw championship, the Knights of Columbus assist youth in building a strong sense of civic and religious responsibility.
The Knights of Columbus even offer a financial benefit, an optional world-class, non-profit insurance and investment program, owned and operated by Knights of Columbus members, serving our members and their families.
By creating strong, supportive local councils, Knights help create a stronger order worldwide and ensure an even stronger future.
Today, we’re looking for the next generation of Knights, for men of character driven by faith and conscience to do truly meaningful works. Please contact your local Knights of Columbus council today for additional information about the many service programs and social opportunities available.
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Mike Zmudzinski is Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus West Toledo Council #3122.
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Last Updated on Tuesday, 23 February 2010 19:27 |
