Since 1882, the Knights of Columbus have upheld the four pillars of Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism, impacting communities and serving as Christ’s hands and feet in councils around the world. Established about 16 years ago, our Holy Apostles Knights of Columbus Council #14338 is part of a worldwide brotherhood of over 2 million active fellow Knights. Our Council’s goals typically involve activities that help support our parish community. The council officers typically meet on the first Monday of the month. The regular council business meeting takes place on the First Thursday in Wicker Hall and starts at 6 p.m. with the Rosary.
For current Grand Knight Ray Galuska, involvement in the Knights has truly impacted his faith life.
“I believe that I have more directly been able to understand not only my Catholic faith but the proper way to appreciate what we have to be thankful for in our lives,” Ray says. “Christ died for our sins and we can all participate in a blessed eternal life, but we have to choose. The Knights of Columbus carry that message each and every day by the acts they perform and the example they show to Christ’s family here on earth.”
There are many different events that the Knights sponsor throughout the year. Some of their family activities have included the Chili Cook-off, Saturday Family Movie Night, Eucharistic processions, and pro-life marches. They also host social events including a Christmas party, their monthly social, and the Knights Breakfast Sundays. In addition, the Knights facilitate a basketball shootout and a family baseball outing. The group also sponsors other events such as the Lenten Fish Fry, Peaches and Pears Sale, and a blood drive. These events consist of a leader who chairs the activity, while other Knights give of their time to help run the events.
To be a Knight, you must be a good practicing Catholic man, age 18 or older. To join, one should start by filling out an online application.
“The process includes an Exemplification Ceremony where the candidate expresses their interest and performs an oath after the Knights of Columbus presentation on our Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism principles that each brother Knight upholds,” Ray says. “All of us have gifts and talents to offer. Join us and share your gifts.”
For more information or to get involved, contact Ray Galuska at kofc14338@gmail.com.