About KofC
“The glory of the Knights of Columbus is not based on humanitarian works alone. Even more admirable has been your insistence upon the supremacy of God and your fidelity to the Vicar of Christ. In truth you can call yourself “brothers” because you call God you Father and have declared yourselves ready to do His will and serve His cause . . . the Knights of Columbus is an immense force for good.” Pope Paul VI
An Immovable Foundation
In 1882, Father Michael J. McGivney invited a small group of parishioners to gather in the basement of St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Connecticut. His goal was simple—to establish an Order that would unite men in their faith as well as help provide for Catholic families in times of need. It was in that humblest of beginnings that the Knights of Columbus was founded.
Guided by four core principles—charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism—these founding members strove to overcome the hardships of the time. Poverty. Unemployment. Even persecution.
Father Michael J. McGivney’s perseverance and foresight have resulted in the largest Catholic fraternal and humanitarian organization ever created. An organization that has endured for over a century because of the inspirational courage of so many.
Dedicate to Making a Difference…and Building a Future
As a service organization, the Knights of Columbus owes its many achievements to the tireless efforts of those in local councils where the greatest impact is most often witnessed, both by our families and our neighbors. Whether it’s through the support of local athletic programs, sponsoring of special events, or even planning and hosting religious activities, Knights serve as valuable role models for other Catholic men, as well as mentors for all our children. And, hopefully, as a source of inspiration for future generations of Knights.
Within the Order itself, there are four “Degrees” of Knighthood, each one meant to exemplify one of the four principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. To become a full Knight, each member is encouraged to attain the Third Degree level. After which, he can go on to the Fourth Degree, the one that embodies patriotism and is the most visible of all the Degrees. It is through their participation in these areas that Knights receive their greatest, and often most personal, rewards.
In Service to One. In Service to All.
Today, we’re looking for the next generation of Knights. Men of character and conviction who are driven by both faith and conscience to do truly meaningful works. And the tangible rewards for members are numerous, from scholarships for our sons and daughters, to being able to participate in one of the leading insurance programs in the country. But of the countless rewards Knighthood offers, perhaps the most inviting is this: The knowledge that, as a Knight, you can make a difference. Through fearless service. Through heartfelt perseverance. And, above all, through unfaltering fellowship.
