Knights of Columbus

Overview

The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic fraternal service organization known for its charitable and community-focused activities. Founded by Michael J. McGivney on March 29, 1882, in New Haven, Connecticut, it was initially established as a mutual benefit society to provide insurance and support for working-class and immigrant Catholics in the United States.

Mission and Principles

The Knights of Columbus operate on the core principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. These values guide their extensive charitable work, which includes supporting people with disabilities, disaster relief efforts, providing coats for needy children, and advocating for pro-life initiatives. The organization also emphasizes supporting veterans and military personnel through various programs.

Charitable Activities

• People with Disabilities: The Knights have a long history of supporting those with disabilities, notably through the Special Olympics since the first games in 1968.
• Disaster Relief: They have been involved in providing aid following natural disasters, such as earthquakes and floods, for over a century.
• Health Initiatives: The organization has donated numerous ultrasound machines to promote pro-life initiatives.
• Refugee Support: The Knights have contributed significantly to aid persecuted Christians and other religious minorities, particularly in the Middle East.

Organization Structure and Global Presence

Membership is restricted to practicing Catholic men aged 18 and above. There are over 2.1 million Knights of Columbus worldwide, with the majority located in North America. The organization operates through more than 17,000 local councils globally.

Financial Services

In addition to charitable work, the Knights of Columbus offers financial services, including a top-rated insurance program and investment management through the Knights of Columbus Asset Advisors.

Leadership and Recognition

As of recent years, the Supreme Knight is Patrick E. Kelly. The organization's founder, Michael J. McGivney, is currently under consideration for sainthood. The Knights of Columbus is recognized for its vast charitable impact and its commitment to Catholic social teachings.

References

Note: Specific references for detailed historical and organizational information can be found in publications and official Knights of Columbus releases.