Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus (K of C) is a global Catholic fraternal service order founded by Blessed Michael J. McGivney on March 29, 1882. It was established as a mutual benefit society for working-class and immigrant Catholics in the United States. The organization, led by Supreme Knight Patrick E. Kelly, is headquartered in New Haven, Connecticut.

History

The Knights of Columbus was founded at St. Mary's Parish in New Haven, Connecticut, to provide financial aid and support to the sick, disabled, and needy members and their families. The organization was formed during a period when Catholics faced significant discrimination, being excluded from many fraternal organizations and labor unions. McGivney's vision was to create an organization that would allow men to be proud of their Catholic and American heritage.

The name "Knights of Columbus" was chosen to reflect the ritualistic nature of the organization and to evoke positive historical associations. Over time, the organization expanded beyond Connecticut and the United States, establishing its first international councils by 1905.

Mission and Activities

The Knights of Columbus is centered around four core principles: Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism. These values guide the organization's extensive charitable activities, which include support for refugees, disaster relief, housing initiatives, and programs for people with disabilities. The organization is also a significant supporter of the Special Olympics and has a long-standing commitment to assisting those in need worldwide.

The Knights operate a robust insurance program, exclusively for members and their families. This program is one of the most highly rated in North America, providing financial security while also supporting charitable causes with the premiums collected.

Charitable Initiatives

• Disaster Relief: The Knights have a history of providing aid after natural disasters. Notable efforts include their response to the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

• Refugee Support: Between 2014 and 2018, the Knights gave more than $2 million to support persecuted Christians and other religious minorities in the Middle East. They also provided assistance to refugees at the U.S.-Mexico border in 2018.

• Education and Seminarians: The organization offers scholarships to support seminarians and programs aimed at promoting Catholic values in education.

• Health Initiatives: The Knights have donated over 1,000 ultrasound machines to promote their stance on life issues.

• Coats for Kids: This program, started in 2009, has donated over 1 million coats to needy children worldwide.

Membership and Structure

Membership is limited to practicing Catholic men. The organization comprises over 17,000 local councils, with more than 2.1 million members worldwide as of 2024. Women may participate through auxiliary groups such as the Columbiettes, and boys can join the Columbian Squires.

Impact

The Knights of Columbus is a leading force in charitable giving, having donated $190 million and volunteered over 47 million hours in 2023. Their efforts reflect a deep commitment to their Catholic faith, society, and the advancement of Catholic causes globally.

In addition to its charitable work, the organization actively supports Catholic social causes and provides financial services aligned with Catholic social teachings.

The Knights of Columbus Asset Advisors, a wholly owned subsidiary, manages investments in compliance with Catholic values. The organization also owns and operates several significant facilities, including the National Shrine of Saint John Paul II in Washington, D.C.

The Knights have played a prominent role in historical events, providing support during both World War I and World War II through establishment of "huts" for soldiers. They continue to support veterans through various programs, including the Warriors to Lourdes pilgrimage.

Today, the Knights of Columbus remains a powerful voice in promoting Catholic values and advocating for social justice worldwide, while maintaining its strong commitment to charitable activities.