Who Are the Knights?
History
The Knights of Columbus is an organization founded in 1882 by Blessed Father Michael McGivney. He wanted to prevent men from entering secret societies that oppose Catholic teaching, instead providing one for them to grow in faith together. They assisted poor families, especially widows with children, so that they could keep their children.
Mission
The Knights of Columbus share a mission of charity and virtue. Each Knight swears to uphold the Catholic virtues and remain a practicing member of the faithful. They also offer charity through service, fundraising, and prayer for the communities around them. The mission today is defined as: "Empowering Catholic men to live their faith at home, in their parish, and at work in their community."
What We Do
The Knights of Columbus serve the community in a handful of different ways. They host breakfasts, donuts and coffee, etc after Masses in their parishes. They fundraise for the needy, especially pregnant or single mothers. They do services for those who are unable to do so for themselves as well, for example yard maintenance for the elderly. They also partner with various organizations to provide relief to war-torn lands and the victims of natural disasters.
At Saint Mary's University
At SMU, the Knights of Columbus assist in running the LaSallian Day of Service, assist in care of various statues and gardens across campus, and fundraise for other events to build community among the students, for example a cornhole tournament. They also foster a growth in faith among the Catholic men on campus, doing weekly dinners, weekly rosary walks, and other formation events like 'Into the Breach' or 'Esto Vir.' For more information on these events and when they are happening, check the home page's calendar or ask any of the officers.
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