Knights of Columbus: A Journey of Heritage and Brotherhood

The Knights of Columbus (KofC) stands as a venerable and esteemed Men's Catholic Fraternity, boasting a rich history that traces back to its founding by the revered Venerable Fr. Michael Joseph McGivney, an Irish-American Priest hailing from Waterbury, Connecticut. Serving as Assistant Pastor of St. Mary's Church in New Haven, Fr. McGivney laid the foundation for what would evolve into an international order, with councils spanning the globe.

My personal journey with the Knights began in my youth, as my parents would often drive through the neighboring town of Cromwell, where the DeSoto Council #6 proudly displayed the Knights of Columbus emblem on its hall. Intrigued by the sight and inspired by tales of Christopher Columbus, I eagerly questioned my mother about the organization. Her simple yet profound explanation—that it was a club for Catholic men like my father—sparked a deep-seated curiosity within me.

Driven by this fascination, I took it upon myself to delve deeper into the world of the Knights. I vividly recall writing to the KofC Supreme Council Offices in New Haven, eagerly seeking information about their mission and purpose. It was within the pages of the pamphlets they sent that I first laid eyes on the iconic regalia of the 4th Degree Knights—a sight that filled me with awe and reverence.

Though initially unaware of any familial ties to the Knights, my journey into genealogy later unveiled a remarkable revelation. Two of my 2nd Great Uncles, on my paternal lineage, had proudly worn the mantle of Knighthood, with one even belonging to the very council I now sought to join—Forest City Council #3 in Middletown, affiliated with my Parish and its Sister Parish.

Today, I am honored to announce that as of this morning, Wednesday, April 22, 2020, I stand among the ranks of the Knights of Columbus. This moment fills me with excitement and anticipation as I embark on a journey of discovery, eager to deepen my understanding of our order and to stand in solidarity with my fellow Brother Knights. Together, we uphold the values and traditions that have shaped the Knights of Columbus into a beacon of faith, charity, and fraternity.






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