What is the Knights of Columbus?
The Knights of Columbus is an international Catholic lay society, best described as a Catholic family fraternal service organization. Begun over a century ago as a men’s fraternal benefit society, it has evolved into a service organization with a strong family orientation. The Knights of Columbus is present in the United States, Canada, the Philippines, Mexico, and several other countries. Its many programs and activities benefit members and their families, while aiding the Catholic Church and the community at large.
The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal and benevolent society of Catholic men founded at St. Mary’s parish in New Haven, Connecticut on March 29, 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney. Please click here to learn more about Father McGivney. Father McGivney’s purpose was to help Catholic men remain steadfast in their faith through mutual encouragement; to promote closer ties to 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 Knights of Columbus is led by the Supreme Council headquartered in New Haven, Connecticut. The Order is organized into local Councils throughout the world. These Councils and the Order stand on four pillars: • Charity: Gospel obligation to perform good works and to love Christ in our neighbors. • Unity: Realization of charity by working together. • Fraternity: Vision of our fellowship as a family. • Patriotism: Dedication
