As it prepares to meet in Baltimore, “the Order” rolls out web-based outreach.The Knights of Columbus international convention opens in Baltimore next Tuesday, and the gathering will bring together delegates from across the United States, Canada and Mexico, as well as newer territories such as the Philippines, Poland, Ukraine and South Korea. Prominent leaders such as Supreme Knight Carl Anderson, Supreme Chaplain William E. Lori, and bishops and cardinals from around the world will take part.
But the 1.9 million-member organization is nothing if not a simple, grassroots Catholic fraternity where men work together to assist their parish, support their community, and learn how to live as better Catholic men. Members refer to the K of C in almost religious terms, as “the Order.”
Fr. Michael J. McGivney, who founded the Knights in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1882, is being considered by the Vatican for sainthood.
Now, interested Catholic men no longer need to wait for a personal invitation from a member of the Order to join. Since July 1, eligible Catholic men in the United States and Canada can go online to complete a simple, streamlined process that takes just five minutes. Dues are $30 a year.
The Order promises men who join opportunities to join a local council to put their faith in action, access to Knights.net, an online members’ portal that includes content to help members “lead with faith, protect your family, serve others and defend your values,” and access to member-exclusive financial products and services.
