| Who Are the Knights? The Knights of Columbus Organization was founded by Father Michael J. McGivney and a handful of Catholic laymen back in March of 1882 in the basement of St. Mary's parish in New Haven, Conn. The purpose for the group was to help Catholic men remain steadfast in their faith through mutual encouragement; to promote closer ties of fraternity among them; and to set up an elementary system of insurance so that the widows and children of members in the group who might die would not find themselves in dire financial straits. The Organizational name was chosen by the first leaders to relate to Christopher Columbus, the Catholic discoverer of America. This would emphasize that it was Catholics who discovered, explored and colonized the North American continent. The "Knights" would signify that the membership embodied knightly ideals of spirituality and service to Church, country and fellowman. Today the Knights of Columbus are the world's largest organization of Catholic men and their families. It is an international society with more than 1.5 million Catholic men in more than 10,000 councils and has been called "the strong right arm of the Church." The Knights have been cited by popes, presidents and other world leaders for support of the Church, for programs of evangelization and Catholic education, for civic involvement and aid to those in need. "Protecting Families for Generations" is a motto that captures the Knights' adherence to the legacy of its founder and fidelity to his vision. A diverse group of many races serving as one to maintain the ideals of Columbianism: Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism. Who can join? Membership to the Knights is opened to all practicing Catholic men above the age of 18. All prospective members are voted in at a local council meeting and at the earliest convenience, a ceremony will be held to install the new member. Once a member, he can chose to get deeper into the Knighthood through applying for his Second, Third and Fourth Degrees of membership. A very noticeable trait of a Knight is his strong faith and devotion to Our Lady of the Rosary. Have you seen the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception? They have a web page that can be visited during normal weekday working hours. http://www.nationalshrine.com/NAT_SHRINE/index.shtml How to Join There are only two requirements for a man to join the Knights of Columbus: that he be a practical Catholic as understood by the Church that he be eighteen years of age or older. While dues-paying membership is only for Catholic men, most council programs are open to the member's entire family, including social and family activities, scholarships, volunteer service programs and insurance benefits. Candidates join local units, called "councils," most of which are based in one Catholic parish, or in the community at large. The candidate takes part in initiation degrees that explain the Knights of Columbus' four principles: Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism. He is considered a "Knight" after taking his First Degree, but he is encouraged to advance through the Second and Third Degrees and on to the Fourth Degree, whose members promote the virtue of patriotism by serving in honor guards, color corps and promoting respect for country and the flag. If you wish to become a member, just contact any of our Council Officers. They will be more than willing to answer any of your questions. |