The Knights of Columbus
The Knights of Columbus were founded in 1882 by a 29-year-old priest, Father Michael J. McGivney (1852-1890) at St. Mary’s Church, New Haven, CT. The Knights of Columbus is the largest Catholic lay organization in the world with more than 1.8 million members and over 14,000 Councils in the US, Canada, Philippines, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Panama, Guam, Cuba, Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic, Bahamas and Saipan. The Knights of Columbus are known as the Strong Right Arm of the Catholic Church in support of pastors.
Mission: The Knights of Columbus is a Fraternal Organization whose mission is to provide service to the Church and community.
Membership: Council #2648 has a venerable history. Our council received its original charter in 1917. The Knights offer a very solid Insurance program and is worth time investigating. To get additional information about the insurance program and the benefits afforded you as a member, contact our Field Agent, Mr. Michael Steele; email address, Michael Steelekofc.org or cell number, 951-901-0803.
Membership is open to practicing Catholic men, who are at least 18 years of age and in union with the Holy See.
Degrees: The Knights of Columbus have four degrees that all members are encouraged to attain. The degrees are Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism. Those attaining fourth degree status also have the option of joining the color corps.
Meetings: Our Council meets on the first Sunday of the month at St. Martin Parish Hall in New Derry. The regular meeting time is 7:30 a.m. The Knights will often serve in various liturgical roles at Mass immediately after the Sunday morning meeting.
The Knights of Columbus has been called the “strong right arm of the Church,” and has been praised by popes, presidents and other world leaders for its support of the Church, programs of evangelization, civic involvement and aid to those in need.
Activities & Programs: Our Council sponsors and assists in many activities and program. The Knights of K Council 2648 spearhead the Lenten Fish Dinners and the annual Partner Parish Picnic, host seasonal Lumberjack Breakfasts, Coffee and Donut Socials. Our Knights actively promote Priestly Vocations and help sponsor Pro-Life activities such as the March to Life bus trip to Washington DC each year.
Contact Information:
Mark Voyten, Grand Knight
Telephone: 724-694-8532
Website: kofc.org