Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus is a global Catholic fraternal service order founded by Father Michael J. McGivney. It was established on March 29, 1882, in New Haven, Connecticut, as a mutual benefit society for working-class and immigrant Catholics in the United States. The organization is led by Patrick E. Kelly, who serves as the 14th Supreme Knight.

Founding

Father McGivney, then a 29-year-old assistant pastor at St. Mary's Church, convened an organizational meeting on October 2, 1881, with a group of men from his parish. He aimed to create a lay organization that would prevent Catholic men from joining secret societies that were contrary to Church teachings. The name "Knights of Columbus" was chosen to honor Christopher Columbus, a figure revered by many American Catholics at the time. This choice also underscored the Knights' commitment to both their Catholic faith and American heritage.

Purpose

The primary motivation for creating the Knights of Columbus was to provide a safety net for families, particularly in cases where the breadwinner died. At the time, many Catholics were excluded from labor unions and fraternal organizations that offered such benefits. McGivney sought to address this inequality by establishing a mutual benefit society that would offer insurance to its members. Over time, the organization has expanded to support various charitable causes, promote Catholic social teachings, and foster community service.

Charitable Activities

Charity is a cornerstone principle of the Knights of Columbus. The organization is involved in numerous charitable initiatives, including support for refugees, disaster relief, and advocating for Catholic ethics on social issues. In recent years, the Knights have provided significant aid to persecuted Christians in the Middle East and those affected by the war in Ukraine. They have also been active in supporting intellectually and physically disabled individuals, often through partnerships like the Special Olympics.

Structure and Membership

As of 2024, the Knights of Columbus have over 2.1 million members worldwide, distributed across more than 17,000 local councils. Membership is limited to practicing Catholic men, while women can participate through auxiliary groups like the Columbiettes. Boys can join the Columbian Squires. The organization is structured around four degrees, each reflecting core principles: charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism.

Financial and Insurance Services

The Knights of Columbus operate a highly rated insurance program exclusively for members and their families. This program includes life insurance, annuities, long-term care insurance, and disability insurance. The organization's financial strength and ethical sales practices have earned it numerous accolades, including A.M. Best's top rating for 40 consecutive years.

Influence and Advocacy

The Knights of Columbus play a significant role in promoting Catholic views on public policy issues. They have been active in lobbying efforts and advocacy campaigns related to family and life issues, aligning with Catholic teachings. The Order has also supported educational programs, scholarships for seminarians and veterans, and has worked closely with the Vatican on various charitable initiatives.