Knights of Columbus
The Knights of Columbus are an organization of Catholic men dedicated to Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism. Founded in 1882 by Fr. Michael J. McGivney and a small group of laymen in New Haven, CT the Knights have grown to be one of the largest fraternal beneficial organizations in the world, more than 2 million strong internationally. Historically created to care for widows of practical Catholic Men, the supreme organization underwrites insurance programs to Catholic families. Very well structured and organized, but with lots of opportunities for individual Knights to explore leading events and activities according to their passion. Knights programs are organized around services under Faith, Family, Life and Community programs that serve Father and the parish. They are now known as "The Strong Right Arm of the Church" for their spirited defense of the faith and their numerous acts to support the church and those less fortunate. Prayer is foundational to our ministry and is the mechanism that tightly binds us. Rosaries are provided to all new Knights.
The Knights at Our Lady of Joy are an active, visible group who are involved in every area of parish life. Our pastors and deacons as well as many of the Eucharistic Ministers, lectors, ushers and leaders of other faith and social ministries proudly call themselves Knights. Event organizing, setup, cooking, heavy lifting and traffic duties help round out a description of our practical duties to the parish and other ministries.
The Knights at Our Lady of Joy than their service work that supports local organizations such as Saint Vincent de Paul, the Apache Mission in San Carlos and Seminarians, enabling dreams of vocations. We support veterans, first responders and feeding the poor and homeless, and aid to the disabled.
Perhaps nothing is more important than our Knights support for women who are dealing with the uncertainty of an unplanned pregnancy. We strive to provide support and assistance by directing them to www.arizonaabortionalternatives.com. This comprehensive website offers information about Catholic adoption services, local pregnancy centers and resources for those seeking healing after an abortion. We support the purchase of Ultrasound machines.
All practical Catholic men over the age of 18 are welcome to become one of "These Men We Call Knights." Come join us and see how the Golf Fore Charity event, Lenten fish dinners, Honor Those Who Serve and other Wine auction events are designed to raise funds to improve the lives of others. Online ceremonies are available for immediate joining and formal in person membership initiation ceremonies are ad hoc scheduled celebrations enjoyed by the participation of Families and the entire Parish. Ask any Knight how you can sign up to join our Star Council!