Knights of the Holy Eucharist

The Knights of the Holy Eucharist is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization with an EIN of 205476442. It is an active-contemplative Franciscan community.

History and Founding

The Knights were founded by Mother Mary Angelica of the Annunciation, P.C.P.A., on July 25, 1998, the feast day of St. James. Mother Angelica, well-known for founding EWTN, the largest privately owned religious network in the world, and the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word in 1987, established the Knights as her second male religious community. The Knights' mission is deeply influenced by the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, embodying his deep faith and enthusiasm for Christ.

Mission and Beliefs

The mission of the Knights is to promote reverent devotion to Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist. They view Jesus as the Eucharistic King whom they have pledged to serve and defend. The community professes the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, reflecting their commitment to a life of simplicity and service. Their charism is encapsulated in the phrase "Christus in cordis templo" (Christ in the temple of our heart), underscoring their focus on placing Christ at the center of their lives.

Community Life and Formation

The Knights live in a community governed by fraternal charity and a balance of contemplative prayer and active service. Their formation process includes several stages:

• Aspirancy: Up to 6 months.
• Candidate: 6 months.
• Postulancy: 1 to 2 years.
• Novitiate: 2 years.
• Temporary Profession: 5 years.
• Final Commitment: After 8 years.

Pillars and Activities

The Knights' life is structured around eight foundational pillars, which guide their spiritual, intellectual, and apostolic activities. These pillars support their mission to serve the Church and wider community by promoting a Christian life fully lived. Activities include liturgical services, youth programs, and vocational counseling. The Knights aim to help others realize the treasure of the Eucharist and strive to be instruments of renewal and reform in the Church.

[1] https://udayton.edu/imri/mary/k/knights-of-the-holy-eucharist.php [2] https://www.knightsoftheholyeucharist.com [3] https://www.knightsoftheholyeucharist.com/about-us/ [4] https://religiouslife.com/vocation/knights-of-the-holy-eucharist [5] https://www.idealist.org/en/nonprofit/d552b4f1fdfd4b2b9d2ce1181aeffce6-knights-of-the-holy-eucharist-waverly