Knights of Columbus

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KNIGHTSOFCOLUMBUS

♦ ♦ COLUMBIA

FEATURES 6 A Spiritual Battlefield An interview with Supreme Knight Carl Anderson about the Into the Breach program and video series. BY COLUMBIA STAFF 10 Virgil Dechant Remembered Past Supreme Knight Virgil C. Dechant’s vision and leadership left an indelible mark on the Knights of Columbus. BY SUPREME KNIGHT CARL ANDERSON, RUSSELL SHAW, CECILIA HADLEY AND ANDY FOWLER 16 Law & The Order A Chicago council of police officers puts faith into action through community outreach and fraternal service. BY MARYANGELA ROMÁN 20 In Unity With Peter Knights of Columbus Board of Directors pilgrimage celebrates a century of collaboration with the Bishop of Rome.

The K of C flag flies at half-staff outside the Knights of Columbus Headquarters in New Haven, Conn., in honor of Past Supreme Knight Virgil Dechant, who died Feb. 16.

DEPARTMENTS

34Building a better world Learning the faith, 25 Spiritual Reflection The Knights of Columbus marks living the faith God desires to heal our hearts with 100 years of service in Rome. Jesus lifts the weight of our sad- his infinite love. BY SUPREME KNIGHT CARL A. ANDERSON ness by his Word and sacramental BY SISTER GAUDIA SKASS, OLM presence. BY SUPREME CHAPLAIN 26 Knights in Action ARCHBISHOP WILLIAM E. LORI PLUS: Catholic Man of the Month

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EDITORIAL COLUMBIA

PUBLISHER Knights of Columbus ‘Thy Will Be Done’ ______Jesuit Father Walter Ciszek (1904- will” (Mt 26:39, Lk 22:42). The Lord, SUPREME OFFICERS Carl A. Anderson 1984) felt a sense of complete help- in his human nature, takes upon him- SUPREME KNIGHT lessness in solitary confinement at self the fear and anguish of us all, yet Most Rev. William E. Lori, S.T.D. Moscow’s infamous Lubianka prison. he perfectly submits to the plan of his SUPREME CHAPLAIN Patrick E. Kelly The Polish American priest had trav- Father — and he thereby brings salva- DEPUTY SUPREME KNIGHT eled to the Soviet Union with the in- tion to the world. Father Ciszek ob- Michael J. O’Connor tention of being a missionary, but he served, “For each of us, salvation SUPREME SECRETARY Ronald F. Schwarz was arrested as a “Vatican spy” at the means no more and no less than tak- SUPREME TREASURER start of World War II. Serving an in- ing up daily the same cross of Christ.” John A. Marrella SUPREME ADVOCATE terminable sentence amid excruciat- Pope Francis echoed these truths in ______ing circumstances, he eventually his message for Lent 2020. “Christian EDITORIAL succumbed to despair. Then, in a joy flows from listening to, and ac- Alton J. Pelowski profound moment of grace, he re- cepting, the Good News of the death EDITOR nounced all vestiges of self-reliance and resurrection of Jesus. … Whoever Andrew J. Matt MANAGING EDITOR and abandoned himself to God’s believes this message rejects the lie that Cecilia Hadley mercy. Though still imprisoned, he our life is ours to do with as we will.” SENIOR EDITOR suddenly possessed an interior free- The purpose of prayer, Pope Francis Margaret B. Kelly ASSOCIATE EDITOR dom and peace beyond all under- added, is to “convert us ever more standing (cf. Phil 4:7). fully to God and to his will.” “It is in choosing to serve God, to While the spiritual challenges that do his will, that man achieves his high- beset the Church and society have est and fullest freedom,” Father Ciszek prompted the Order’s Into the Breach

later wrote in his spiritual memoir, He program and other initiatives (see Venerable Michael McGivney (1852-90) Leadeth Me (1973). “I could testify page 6), we are all now facing a global Apostle to the Young, Protector of Christian Family Life and from my own experiences, especially crisis of a different kind — and all Founder of the Knights of Columbus, from my darkest hours in Lubianka, of the fears, suffering and uncertain- Intercede for Us. ______that the greatest sense of freedom, ties that come with it (see prayer on along with peace of soul and an abid- page 33). How is a person of faith to HOW TO REACH US MAIL ing sense of security, comes when a respond to such crises and any num- COLUMBIA man totally abandons his own will in ber of personal challenges? The answer 1 Columbus Plaza order to follow the will of God.” lies not in our own power, but instead New Haven, CT 06510-3326 ADDRESS CHANGES Where does one find the will of must begin with our abandonment to 203-752-4210, option #3 God? The key for Father Ciszek was Divine Mercy (see page 25). For Jesus [email protected] COLUMBIA INQUIRIES recognizing the hand of divine provi- Christ, who has won the victory over 203-752-4398

dence in “these things alone, here and sin and death, has also taught us how K OF C CUSTOMER SERVICE now.” He found particular strength to pray: “Thy kingdom come, thy will 1-800-380-9995 and consolation in Christ’s prayer in be done.”♦ EMAIL [email protected] the garden of Gethsemane: “My Fa- INTERNET ther, if it is possible, let this cup pass ALTON J. PELOWSKI kofc.org/columbia ______from me; yet, not as I will, but as you EDITOR Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to men 18 years of age or older who are practical (that is, practicing) Catholics in union with the Holy See. This means that an Catholic Information Service Resource: “Into the Breach” applicant or member accepts the teaching authority of the Catholic Church on matters of faith and morals, aspires to live in accord with the precepts of the Catholic Church, Into the Breach: An Apostolic Exhortation to Catholic Men and is in good standing in the Catholic Church.

______ (#340) by Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted of Phoenix calls men to embrace their essential roles as protectors and defenders Copyright © 2020 All rights reserved of the faith. Adopted by the Knights of Columbus into a ______

spiritual formation program, the document has also in-

ON THE COVER spired a new K of C-produced video series (see page 6). The

St. Michael the Archangel is depicted in a mosaic in

the chapel at Campo Sportivo Pio XI, one of the booklet includes a study guide and discussion questions. To

Order’s sports centers in Rome. download or order copies, visit kofc.org/cis.

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BUILDINGABETTERWORLD

Charity in the Eternal City The Knights of Columbus marks 100 years of service in Rome

by Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson

IN FEBRUARY, Pope Francis received in helping every Bishop of Rome since the Knights of Columbus Supreme Of- 1920 to preach the Gospel message ficers and Directors in a private audi- around the world, both in person, and ence at the Vatican. We had traveled on through the modern means of commu- a pilgrimage to commemorate the nications including television, radio 100th anniversary of the Order’s serv- and the internet. intellectually disabled and poor, as well ice in Rome (see page 20). “During your pontificate, we have as immigrant and Native American Here I would like to share some of also been honored to support many of communities needing humanitarian as- what I said in my formal remarks to the Holy See’s international confer- sistance. Likewise, we have continued Pope Francis on that occasion. ences on aspects of faith and charity. our work of evangelization, helping to “It was a century ago that we began We have worked closely with the Pon- revitalize our parishes, and witnessing our work in this city at the request of tifical Commission for Latin America to the truth and beauty of the Gospel Pope Benedict XV. He asked the on such events here in Rome and within our communities. Knights’ leadership — then on pil- around the world, including in Mexico “Just last month, the Knights of grimage in Europe — to start Columbus grew to more than centers in the Eternal City that 2 million members, and our offered sports and catechesis One hundred years ago, Supreme Directors gathered for the youth of the Rome. here today represent our “Venerable Pope Pius XII’s Pope Benedict XV said: ‘Knights of members in the United States, food program for the citizens Columbus, you have done great things Canada, Mexico, the Philip- of Rome during World War II pines, Cuba, Poland, Ukraine, was run from one of our cen- — you are destined to do still greater.’ Lithuania, South Korea and ters, and after the war, Rome’s France. In all these nations, children were fed by the Knights take seriously our United Nations Relief and Rehabilita- City and Bogotá. It has also been our support of the Church — locally in our tion Agency at one of our playgrounds great privilege to continue our work on parishes, and universally through our in the city. Today, charitable work con- preserving the universal patrimony of assistance to the Holy See and to every tinues at our facilities in Rome. Our the Church through our collaboration pope during the last 100 years. Pius XI Sports Center overlooking St. with the Fabbrica di San Pietro. And I “One hundred years ago, Pope Peter’s Basilica is a spiritual home for am pleased that we will soon be under- Benedict XV said: ‘Knights of Colum- Rome’s Filipino immigrant community. taking a new project with the Fabbrica bus, you have done great things — The same facility also hosts Special in the Scavi adjacent to the tomb of St. you are destined to do still greater. Olympics games for disabled athletes Peter — the latest manifestation of our Knights, be welcome to Rome.’ In- and the Clericus Cup for seminarians. support for the Rock on which Christ deed, we have felt at home here in the “Far beyond Rome, we have also built his Church. Eternal City this past century, and been pleased to assist financially Your “We have been grateful for Your Ho- today I promise to Your Holiness that Holiness’ apostolic journeys to the liness’ greetings to our annual conven- in the century to come, the Knights of United States and Lithuania and to tions, and we have continued to answer Columbus will work tirelessly to fulfill sponsor major catechetical sites at our founding call to assist those on the that destiny, offering even greater serv- World Youth Days in Poland and margins — making a special priority ice to Holy Mother Church and the Panama. We see these actions as part of our support for persecuted Christians successor of St. Peter.” the support we have long undertaken in the Middle East, the unborn, the Vivat Jesus!

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LEARNING THE FAITH, LIVING THE FAITH

‘In the Breaking of Bread’ Jesus lifts the weight of our sadness by his Word and sacramental presence

by Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori

SOMETIMES IT SEEMS as if a bitterness against God, the Church and cloud is hanging over our heads — those who carry forward its mission. not a specific problem or threat to our We might imagine that Knights of well-being, but rather a general feeling Columbus, other practicing Catholics of sadness and anxiety that overshad- and those who minister in the ows our culture. Especially as people Church’s name are somehow im- become more divided and isolated, mune to our culture and to acedia’s do so, he will open the saving mes- such melancholy makes it harder to temptations. It would be foolish to sage of Scripture, a message that face problems, whether in our per- think so. Even the first disciples leads us to the Eucharist, where we sonal lives, the Church or society. needed the grace of the crucified and too can recognize Jesus “in the break- This kind of despondency, com- risen Lord to help them out of their ing of bread.” Indeed, Word and mon in many developed countries, spiritual despondency. sacrament are the two great antidotes often accompanies a decline in reli- Demoralized by Jesus’ death, two to spiritual sadness, and as we see in gious practice. While I can’t cite a disciples were making their way to- the Emmaus episode, they are deeply study to prove it, it seems more than ward the village of Emmaus when the bound together. coincidental that where belief When we listen humbly, in God and religious practice prayerfully and persistently to have waned, there is a corre- We should not hesitate to share the Word of God, the causes of sponding rise in unhappiness our sadness are unearthed and and insecurity. our burden of sadness revealed. Room — indeed, We live in an age in which hunger — is created in our many people reject a “given” with the risen Lord and hearts for the presence of Jesus. nature to things, think that sci- invite him to walk with us. How blessed we are that the ence has disproven the validity Word of God which illumi- of religious faith and assert a nates our heart “sacramentally radical right to self-determination. risen Lord joined them — though the takes flesh in the event of the Eu- This worldview, however, is itself a disciples did not recognize him. As charist” (Pope Benedict XVI, Verbum source of anxiety. When faced with they walked along, Jesus not only in- Domini, 55). the idea of a godless universe and a vited them to share their sadness with At the Last Supper, Jesus promised finite horizon, we human beings in- him, but also helped them overcome his disciples, “I will not leave you stinctively feel as though we are it. For along the way, he opened the desolate; I will come to you” (Jn trapped inside a box. We are made meaning of sacred Scripture, showing 14:18). On Easter Sunday, he stood for more. them how it pointed to his own death in their midst and said, “Peace be Even those who profess and prac- and resurrection. As a result, the dis- with you” (Jn 20:19). tice the faith can be affected by this ciples’ hearts burned with joy, a joy If ever we are tempted to despair, relativistic culture and succumb to a that overflowed when they sat at table let us ask for the grace of the Holy spiritual malady called “acedia” — a with Jesus and recognized him “in the Spirit to open our hearts anew to the deep-seated state of interior sadness breaking of bread” — that is, in the crucified and risen Lord. And as the that results in spiritual and moral Eucharist (cf. Lk 24:13-35). Church solemnly celebrates the resur- paralysis. It can turn the soul against We should not hesitate to share our rection of Christ, his triumph over sin all the means of healing and growth burden of sadness with the risen Lord and death, may we recognize his sav- in virtue, and it can even lead to and invite him to walk with us. If we ing, eucharistic presence and rejoice.♦

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SUPREMECHAPLAIN’SCHALLENGE

A monthly reflection and practical challenge from demolish this misconception. Here the Son of Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori: God cries out, quoting Psalm 22, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” He And about three o’clock Jesus cried out in a gives us permission to make these words our loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” own — in whatever moments of pain, anguish which means, “My God, my God, why have and suffering we experience. You and I are in- you forsaken me?” ... But Jesus cried out vited to pour out our hearts openly to God in again in a loud voice, and gave up his spirit. trust and confidence. And behold, the veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. (Gospel for Challenge by Supreme Chaplain April 5, Mt 27:46, 50-51) Archbishop William E. Lori: We can sometimes can get the idea that Jesus was a “nice This month, as we enter Holy Week and celebrate the pas- guy” and that our purpose as Christians is to be nice people sion, death and resurrection of our Lord, I challenge you who do nice things and don’t bother with anything un- to pray the Stations of the Cross and to meditate on pleasant. Jesus’ heartrending words from the cross should Christ’s anguish in his passion.♦

HOLY FATHER’S CATHOLICMANOFTHEMONTH PRAYER INTENTION Blessed José Trinidad Rangel (1887-1927)

In April 1927, Father José Trinidad Rangel Montaño was asked to visit the town of San Francisco del Rincón to celebrate Holy Week. It was a risky assignment; religious persecution was fierce in Mexico in the 1920s, especially in this central region, the heart of the Cristero War. But Father We pray that those suffering Rangel, a priest of the Diocese of from addiction may be helped León, saw the invitation as a sign of and accompanied. God’s will. Molist and Leonardo Pérez Larios — He had been raised in a devoutly both, like Father Rangel, members of Catholic farming family in Dolores the Knights of Columbus. Hidalgo, Guanajuato. His dream of Father Rangel was discovered and LITURGICALCALENDAR entering the seminary had to wait arrested April 22 during his mission until he received a scholarship at age to San Francisco del Rincón. The April 5 Palm Sunday of the Passion 20. With the closing of many semi- León safe house was raided soon after. naries during the Mexican Revolution All three Knights were charged with of the Lord (1910-20), José completed his studies sedition and falsely accused of in- April 9 Holy Thursday in Texas before he was ordained in volvement in a recent train derail- April 10 Friday of the Passion León in 1919. ment. Taken to the site of the of the Lord (Good Friday) Father Rangel served in various derailment near El Rancho de San April 11 Holy Saturday parishes and was known for his hu- Joaquín, the men spread their arms in April 12 Easter Sunday of the mility, love of the Eucharist and zeal the sign of a cross before they were in hearing confessions. As clerical shot and killed April 25. Resurrection of the Lord persecution intensified, he was urged A member of Council 2484 in San /-%5)16/%0 554!66*54264& 046 66#$#(6 ,+/'3"6/+36-212.15 .64!5.666 (33(*6$3 6 '+'*,*6 ,+("65-1)626/2&00)60&154!5.6,%April -54) 19 Sunday of Divine Mercy to flee to the U.S., but he stayed and Felipe, Guanajuato, Father Rangel April 25 St. Mark, Evangelist carried out a clandestine ministry was beatified with his two brother April 29 St. Catherine of Siena, from a safe house in León. There he Knights and 10 other Mexican mar- met Claretian Father Andrés Solá y tyrs in 2005.♦

Virgin and Doctor of the Church $#"6

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OUR CALL TO SPIRITUAL BATTLE

An interview with Supreme Knight Carl Anderson about the Into the Breach program and video series

t began with “a clarion call” to men in the Dio- COLUMBIA: What inspired Bishop Olmsted’s Icese of Phoenix: “Men, do not hesitate to engage apostolic exhortation to Catholic men and its in the battle that is raging around you.” Bishop title “Into the Breach”? Why is its message so ur- Thomas J. Olmsted’s apostolic exhortation, titled gent today? “Into the Breach,” urged Catholic men to embrace SUPREME KNIGHT: Bishop Olmsted begins the their essential roles as protectors and as defenders document by taking stock of the Church and of the faith. In 2017, the Knights of Columbus family life today, and he sees what we all see — a adopted the document into a spiritual formation large drop-off in attendance at Mass, people leav- program, providing the text to members around ing the Church, especially youth, and a society the world with a study guide to encourage prayer, that is confused about some of the most basic discussion and action. questions of identity and Now, the document’s the nature of the family. powerful insights are reach- As I have said elsewhere, ing even more people it is really a crisis of evange- through a complementary lization, a failure to evan- new video series produced gelize, especially within the by the Knights. Twelve family. And in the face of episodes of Into the Breach, this crisis, the Church averaging about 12 min- needs Catholic men to take utes in length, were re- responsibility and to act. leased on Ash Wednesday, This is what Bishop Olm- Feb. 26. Each episode fea- sted means by stepping into tures interviews with vari- the breach. ous Catholic leaders and According to some pro- authors, men as well as jections, fewer than 1 in women, who explore themes of Bishop Olmsted’s 10 Catholics under the age of 21 will continue to letter, such as masculinity, fatherhood, suffering practice the faith as adults. What are we going to and leadership. do about that? Sociologists tell us that the single Knights are encouraged to share the videos with most important factor in determining whether friends and family, and councils are encouraged to children who are raised Catholic will practice the show the videos in small group settings, before faith as adults is the faith life of their father. parish gatherings of men and their families, or as To call men to step into the breach means to part of a day of reflection, retreat or similar event. call them to live their faith deeply and to be The series, which has received very positive re- heroic as husbands and fathers. This is also central views, can be viewed at kofc.org/intothebreach. to the mission and identity of the Knights of Columbia recently spoke with Supreme Knight Columbus. Practicing our principles of charity, Carl Anderson about the new series and what he unity and fraternity is fundamentally about grow- hopes it will accomplish. ing in holiness. RIGHT: Photo by Tamino Petelinšek

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MASCULINITY BROTHERHOOD LEADERSHIP

COLUMBIA: How did the Knights of Columbus come to SUPREME KNIGHT: The series closely follows the themes of adopt “Into the Breach” as a Faith in Action program and the document, and Bishop Olmsted’s own voice comes develop a study guide? What has been the response? through in interviews. That said, the videos also enhance the SUPREME KNIGHT: Less than two months after Bishop Olm- message of the document in a few ways. sted promulgated “Into the Breach” in September 2015, I an- First, as videos, they can do things that a document can- nounced an Orderwide initiative — Building the Domestic not, with visuals and sound and additional voices, elaborat- Church While Strengthening Our Parish. And this initiative ing on different insights. Second, we wanted to make the led to the new Faith in Action program model in 2018. Both document come alive by sharing inspirational stories of in- relate to the key role that the Knights of Columbus can play dividual Catholic men — men who are pursuing Christ with in the renewal of parish and family life. all their heart. When “Into the Breach” was first published, I saw it as The men who are featured in the videos are not perfect men; providential. It was as if it were directed at the Knights, who like all of us, they have weaknesses. At the same time, they strive to respond to the very same challenges addressed in the admit failures and testify to God’s goodness and the power of document. Working with the Diocese of Phoenix, we decided forgiveness and redemption. In other words, they are men we to reprint it as a Catholic Information Service booklet, and can relate to. because of the nature of the content, we felt a study guide was The net result is powerful teaching and a vision of true necessary as well. manhood that can touch every man. Many of the issues raised in the document require some formation and explanation. What is true masculinity as the COLUMBIA: What is distinctive about men’s spirituality? Catholic tradition understands it? What does it mean for a How does the Into the Breach series address or appeal to man to really lead in his home and in his community? Or, as those qualities? Bishop Olmsted put it, “How does a man love?” These ques- SUPREME KNIGHT: One key point is fatherhood. Whether it tions require deep reflection, and our hope is that the study is spiritual or biological fatherhood, it means taking responsi- guide encourages that reflection. bility for the lives of those around us, as well as the environment I say “hope,” but in fact, we have already seen it. Where we create in our homes and communities. Protecting others study guides are being used as part of the Into the Breach Faith first requires self-mastery, which is something many men are in Action program, we are getting great feedback. This and struggling with right now. It is easy to be passive and lazy in related Faith in Action programs are changing the lives of the modern world — to focus on making things as comfortable brother Knights and their families — and they are also at- as possible, avoiding responsibility and the hardships that come tracting men to the Order. with it. In this climate, it was essential that we emphasized in I see the hand of God in the timing of this. There is a great the videos not only the need for leadership but also for self- need, and this program is helping us provide an answer. control and a mature understanding of the role of suffering in our lives — not for its own sake, but for the sake of others. COLUMBIA: What was the vision for the new Into the I hope the series serves as a wake-up call for men to remem- Breach video series? How does it complement the document? ber that they were born into a battle — a spiritual battle, yes,

PRAYER SUFFERING SACRAMENTAL LIFE

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FATHERHOOD FAMILY LIFE

but nonetheless very real warfare. It is a battle for their souls COLUMBIA: Who is the target audience of the video series, and those of their wives and children and the whole world. and what role will it play in the Faith in Action program? Once a man sees this, his whole perspective on life changes. SUPREME KNIGHT: Originally, our target audience was In my experience, this realization makes many men take their members of the Knights of Columbus. But we designed the own formation more seriously. It gives them a clear vision for videos to be watched by anyone, in any number of settings their God-given mission in life. This mental shift is funda- — individually or in groups, for presentations or retreats. mental and has to occur if Christian men are going to take Some of the most positive comments we have received have their place in the great battle and step into the breach where come from priests. And the series is not only for men. Many the Lord is calling them. women have shared with us how helpful they found the The teaching presented in the videos is a challenge, be- videos, especially as something they can watch with their cause the Gospel is a challenge. I think many men will walk husbands or other loved ones. away with a deep sense of commitment to make changes in In the upcoming fraternal year, the Into the Breach videos, their lives. with new study guides, will be part of an official Faith in Action program that councils may choose as part of their COLUMBIA: Can you say more about the decision-making yearly plan. behind the production? For instance, what went into choosing the particular topics and interview subjects? COLUMBIA: Are there any current plans to further develop SUPREME KNIGHT: Well, a project like this takes many minds Into the Breach and related spirituality initiatives of the to be done well, so we consulted widely. The themes themselves Knights of Columbus? are driven by the text, but other decisions were the product of SUPREME KNIGHT: Yes. We are in a conversation about a many conversations and a fair bit of trial and error. I spent more project that will make these videos even more widely known hours than I can count reviewing versions of the videos and dis- and further develop the themes. We are also in the process cussing them with others. I am happy with the final product, of developing another video series based on a second docu- especially with the way various elements came together. They ment by Bishop Olmsted, titled “Complete My Joy.” Written have many dimensions and, more importantly, they tell a story. to husbands and wives, it is a kind of sequel to “Into the One of the most personally gratifying elements of this Breach” and is also available as a CIS booklet. whole process was identifying the men to feature. These in- Marriage and the family are in crisis — there is major clude unknown heroes who have been through incredible suf- breach there, and we want to offer very practical guidance fering and yet model hope and strength for the rest of us. and inspiration for Catholic men and women to live out the They point to the fact that evangelization is not an abstract mission of the domestic church in their homes. idea. It is a personal reality of individuals, families and com- The Knights of Columbus has a special obligation in this munities being transformed by Jesus Christ. moment of crisis. As the largest Catholic fraternal organiza- There are so many men out there who are carrying their tion in the world, founded with a mission to protect crosses daily, living lives of virtue and being a light for the Catholic families, we can and must make a difference. We world. This gives me great hope for our Church. will continue to do more. This is simply who we are.♦

SPIRITUAL WARFARE EVANGELIZATION THE CORNERSTONE

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VIRGIL DECHANT REMEMBERED

Past Supreme Knight Virgil C. Dechant’s vision and leadership left an indelible mark on the Knights of Columbus

The longest-serving supreme knight in K of C history, Virgil C. to sustain this great brotherhood of Catholic men that is the Dechant, died Feb. 16 at age 89. He is survived by his wife, Knights of Columbus. Ann, their four children and numerous grandchildren and The first part of this legacy was his devotion to the Blessed great-grandchildren. Virgin Mary — prayerfully bringing her image to millions During Dechant’s 23-year administration, from 1977 until through our pilgrim icon program, introducing her rosary 2000, the Order grew in membership and played an increasingly into the ceremonials of the Order, and giving every new mem- important role in the life of the Church. ber a Knights of Columbus rosary. “Mary with her Knights … what challenge can we not face?” These words inspired a generation of Knights — especially those committed to defending the sanctity of human ‘A Man Who Was True’ life before birth. by Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson A second part of this legacy was that Virgil always remembered his studies at the Pontifical College Josephinum, and EDITOR’S NOTE: Supreme Knight Anderson delivered the following eulogy his time there marked him with a special reverence and respect at the Church of the Nativity in Leawood, Kan., Feb. 22. for the priesthood. There was no more heartfelt expression of his leadership as a layman in our Church and devotion to its he best tribute to Virgil Dechant can be found in the sacraments than the phrase, “In solidarity with our priests.” T25th chapter of St. Matthew’s Gospel: “Well done, good And third was a change which today is taken for granted and faithful servant.” but at the time was quite revolutionary: his work to shift the That is how I will always remember Virgil. Knights of Columbus from a too inward-looking men’s or- A good and faithful Catholic man, husband and father — a ganization to one focused increasingly on strengthening man who touched the lives of millions, a man who by hard Catholic marriages and family life. He was very proud of the work and example helped show millions more the light of faith. changes he made to include our wives in so many Knights of Many of us have known great men over the years. But Virgil Columbus activities. stands out: He brought together the ability and vision to lead Virgil understood a profound truth: No knight, whether in with a concern for those utterly forgotten. medieval times or in our own, can be all that he can be with- For Virgil, loving God and neighbor were not abstractions. out his fair lady by his side. They were a rule of life that he lived concretely every day. So often when I have been asked about women joining the It is hard to encapsulate nine decades of life in just a few Knights of Columbus, I wanted to say, “Would you please minutes. It’s even harder when those nine decades were lived just look at Virgil and Ann — how they are together? Do you by Virgil Dechant. not see that asking Ann to become a member would actually What he accomplished was a testament to a life lived faith- be a step back?” fully — to a great return on the talents God gave him, and to That was the example that Virgil and Ann set, and together what we mean when we say “faith in action.” they changed the course of the Knights of Columbus. I would like to focus on just a few aspects of his legacy. For Virgil, like Father McGivney before him, it was all Virgil did many things for the Order — growing its mem- about family. He cared deeply for his own family, for the fam- bership and business, and making it a key partner in major ily of the Knights of Columbus, for the Catholic family, and Vatican restoration projects. for the human family. But for the Order, I think his most enduring — and endear- There are so many corporate accomplishments of which ing — legacy was his success, not as a businessman, but as a Virgil was rightly proud: professionalizing our agency force, Catholic man who intuitively understood what was necessary putting our insurance products on a sound actuarial basis,

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Past Supreme Knight Virgil C. Dechant posed for this portrait wearing the emblems and jewels of the various pontifical and equestrian orders to which he belonged.

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Supreme Knight Carl Anderson delivers the eulogy for his predecessor at the Church of the Nativity in Leawood, Kan., on Feb. 22. Ann Dechant (right) is seated beside her husband’s coffin.

modernizing our investments and securing a superior level of financial strength for the Knights of Columbus. Farewell, Faithful Knight But on this day, at this hour, in this place we apply a dif- by Russell Shaw ferent measure: one not bound by time or space. We apply the measure of St. Paul. Did he fight the good EDITOR’S NOTE: The following tribute was published in the Feb. 24 fight? Did he run the race to the end? Did he keep the faith? edition of Our Sunday Visitor. It is reprinted with permission. In Virgil we saw a man with courage to defend those with no protector; a man with compassion for the poor and suf- bituaries of Past Supreme Knight Virgil C. Dechant, fering — and a man who was true to those to whom he had Owho died at age 89 on Feb. 16 at his home in Leawood, pledged faithfulness or who were entrusted to his care. Kan., were factually correct but superficial. Dechant was a In these ways and in many others, Virgil raised a standard much larger man, with far more influence on the Church to which every Catholic man could aspire — a standard that than merely listing dates, offices held and honors bestowed today shines brightly — and one that will continue to shine can suggest. for many years to come. Joining creativity to love of tradition and business acumen, Today, we pray that Virgil will be one of those of which the he shaped a profoundly Catholic organization suited to prophet Daniel spoke. We pray that he will shine “like the changing times. The question for the Knights of Columbus stars for ever and ever” (Dan 12:3). now is whether it can rise to the contemporary challenge of Virgil is now at rest in the Kansas he loved so well. relevance put to it by a secular culture radically opposed to But may we be forgiven if for a moment we think of Virgil as what it stands for. already enjoying a homecoming — being welcomed by friends In a way, of course, the Knights have been here before. who have gone before him such as Count Enrico Galeazzi, Car- At the urging of a young parish priest, Father Michael Mc- dinal John O’Connor, Mother Teresa, John Paul II and by mil- Givney, whose cause for canonization is currently under con- lions of others whom he never knew in his lifetime, but whose sideration in Rome, a small group of Irish-American men met lives were changed for the better because of him. in February 1882 in the basement of St. Mary’s Church in New O Lord, grant Virgil — who did so much for so many — Haven, Conn. Three years earlier, a newspaper had headlined eternal rest in you.♦ a story about the same church: “How an Aristocratic Avenue

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Was Blemished by a Roman Catholic Edifice.” The men had come together to launch a new organization as a bulwark A Lasting Legacy against anti-Irish, anti-Catholic bigotry like that. by Cecilia Hadley and Andrew Fowler The name chosen for the new group was Knights of Columbus. Selecting Columbus as patron sent a message: As supreme knight for nearly a quarter century, Virgil Dechant “We [Catholics] got here before you [Protestants] did.” helped to shape the Order’s future in ways large and small. Here Many fraternal organizations of those times have withered are some of his most significant accomplishments. and died, but the Knights survived and flourished. Combin- ing religion and patriotism was a brilliant move that made the GROWING THE ORDER group, in the words of a historian, “a classic instance of a mi- K of C insurance and membership boomed under Dechant’s nority’s drive to assimilate.” leadership. Drawing on his business and sales experience, Years later, out in Kansas, a young man named Virgil Dechant inaugurated a new era in Knights of Columbus In- Dechant joined the group. Laid up after an accident, he no- surance even before he became supreme knight, modernizing ticed that, family aside, most of those who dropped by to business practices and creating a professional field force. In- cheer him up were his brother Knights. Motivated, he began surance in force reached $3 billion in 1975 and stood at nearly his rise through the organization’s ranks, eventually becoming $40 billion when he retired in 2000. Meanwhile, membership Kansas state deputy. In 1967, by then a successful business- increased from 1.23 million to 1.62 million, and the number man and wheat farmer, he went to New Haven as supreme of councils nearly doubled, from about 6,000 to 11,644. secretary. Ten years later, the directors elected him supreme knight, the position he held until retiring in 2000. STRENGTHENING FAMILIES AND PARISHES Membership and insurance soared in those years, while At every stage of his K of C career, Dechant found ways to business and investment success made the Knights an impor- involve his wife in council events and encouraged other tant source of financial support for popes, bishops and innu- Knights to do the same. Integrating families into the Order’s merable Catholic groups. Locally, many pastors became activities was a shift, but one he believed was consistent with increasingly aware of the Knights as a can-do group whose the founder’s vision. members were always ready to lend a hand to parish projects. “Everything was designed for the benefit of the family,” Even more important, the Knights imparted much-needed Dechant said in his first annual report as supreme knight. “Is stability to the Church during the troubled years after the Sec- there any doubt about Father McGivney’s intent? It seems to ond Vatican Council. While others fretted about what it me that the time is ripe to bring about the full realization of meant to be Catholic, these men knew the answer and, at his dream.” This mindset continues today with family-ori- their best, sought to exemplify it. ented Faith in Action programs and other initiatives to At the same time, the group showed it could move with the strengthen the domestic church. times. Hence its strong commitment to the pro-life move- Dechant also encouraged Knights to develop closer ties to ment and the defense of family life. That openness to adjust- their parishes, promoting the formation of parish-based ments has continued under Dechant’s successor, Carl councils. Anderson, as illustrated by recent changes in the Order’s cer- emonial garb and ritual, for many years considered virtually untouchable. Today, challenges to things dear to the Knights of Colum- bus are on the rise again. Fidelity to Catholic values, the glue holding the group together from the start, has situated this historically assimilationist and American group in opposition to powerful secular forces on life issues, marriage and religious liberty. Columbus sometimes sailed on rough seas. As the secular environment becomes increasingly hostile, the Knights may be doing the same.♦

RUSSELL SHAW is the author or co-author of more than 20 books, a consultor to the Pontifical Council for Social Com- munications, and a contributing editor of Our Sunday Visitor. A member of Our Lady of Victory Council 11487 in Washing- ton, D.C., he previously served as communications director for the U.S. bishops and as director of information for the Knights Virgil and Ann Dechant stand smiling with their children, Dan, of Columbus, and was a longtime columnist for Columbia. Tom, Karen and Bobby, circa 1964.

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Clockwise, from above: Pope John Paul II meets with Supreme Knight Dechant and a K of C delegation, including Count Enrico Galeazzi, director the Knights of Columbus Rome Office, and Supreme Chap- lain Bishop Charles Greco of Alexandria, La., at the Apostolic Del- egation in Washington, D.C., Oct. 7, 1979. • President Ronald Reagan speaks to pro-life leaders, including Supreme Knight Dechant (left) at the Executive Office Building in Washington, D.C., July 30, 1987. Carl Anderson (second from left) was then acting director of the White House’s Office of Public Liaison. • Supreme Knight Dechant (left) and Knights of Columbus board members carry the remains of Father Michael McGivney to a new resting place in St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Conn., March 29, 1982.

LOVE FOR OUR LADY Dechant also became close with St. Teresa of Calcutta. The Dechant began his administration as supreme knight with a Knights of Columbus began to sponsor much of the Mission- visit to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate aries of Charity’s printing in the U.S., and once offered her a Conception, placing his work under the Virgin Mary’s pro- monthly stipend to support her work with the poorest of the tection. He also fostered Marian devotion by initiating two poor. She declined, asking instead, “Send me your members K of C traditions. In 1978, at the urging of his father, he and families instead to work in my soup kitchens.” She did made sure that all new Knights received a rosary blessed by accept the Order’s inaugural Gaudium et Spes Award in 1992. the supreme chaplain. The next year, he started the Marian Hour of Prayer (now called the Marian Prayer Program), in PROMOTION OF VOCATIONS which blessed images of Our Lady circulate among councils Dechant had a special love for the priesthood, formed by his around the world. “Loving devotion to Mary,” he wrote, “is family and his years in minor seminary at the Pontifical Col- truly one of the marks of the Knights of Columbus.” lege Josephinum. In his first speech after being elected, he encouraged all Knights to pray for and foster vocations in their FRIEND OF SAINTS families. “If new vocations are to come from our young,” he Dechant’s tenure as supreme knight corresponded closely to said, “they must be stimulated and nourished in the atmos- the years of St. John Paul II’s papacy. Over 23 years, he and phere of our homes.” the pope met more than 70 times, developing a close rapport. Under his leadership, the Order launched several scholar- Visiting Rome for the World Congress of Vocations in ship funds for seminarians and priests, including the Refund 1981, Dechant was in St. Peter’s Square on May 13 when Support Vocations Program (RSVP) in 1981, through which John Paul II was shot. Dechant and his wife, Ann, visited the councils assist seminarians and others in religious formation. Holy Father a few months later at Castel Gandolfo and pre- When Dechant received the Gaudium et Spes Award in 2012, sented him with the first proceeds of the Vicarius Christi he announced that he would donate the award’s honorarium Fund for his personal charities. to K of C seminarian scholarship funds.

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FATHER MCGIVNEY’S CHAMPION met with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Agostino In his farewell address, Supreme Knight Dechant told delegates Casaroli. Among the issues they discussed was diplomatic re- to the Supreme Convention, “There is one thing particularly lations between the U.S. and the Holy See, which were estab- that is close to my heart, and that is the cause of our founder.” lished less than two years later. Research to support the cause for Father Michael McGivney’s canonization began in the early years of his tenure, and he A NEW CULTURE OF LIFE oversaw the re-internment of Father McGivney’s remains at St. Under Dechant’s leadership, the Knights of Columbus re- Mary’s Church during the Order’s centenary celebrations in sponded to widespread challenges to the sanctity of human 1982. The research process continued, and the Archdiocese of life by increasing support for numerous pro-life initiatives — Hartford officially opened the cause for canonization in 1997. including pregnancy resource centers, the March for Life Ed- ucation and Defense Fund and the pro-life offices of the U.S. VATICAN SUPPORT and Canadian bishops. Dechant fortified the Order’s strong ties with the Vatican, “Without the Knights of Columbus, there might not be a which led to many collaborative projects and opportunities pro-life movement today,” Cardinal John O’Connor, then- to serve the Church. In 1975, the Knights of Columbus began archbishop of New York, told Knights at the Supreme Con- supporting Vatican satellite broadcasts, making it possible for vention in 1990. Catholics around the world to watch papal Masses and other The Order likewise promoted the Church’s vision for mar- Vatican events. riage and family in various ways, such as by sponsoring natural In the following decades, the Order funded historic restora- family planning education and by establishing a North Amer- tion work, including repairing and cleaning the 65,000- ican campus of the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies square-foot façade of St. Peter’s Basilica in 1985, and restoring on Marriage and Family in Washington, D.C., in 1988.♦ the basilica’s Moderno Atrium and Holy Door in time for pilgrims to walk through during the Jubilee Year in 2000. CECILIA HADLEY is senior editor of Columbia. The Vatican’s relationship with the Order also facilitated ANDREW FOWLER is a content producer for the Knights closer ties with the United States. When President Ronald of Columbus Communications Department and a member Reagan attended the 100th Supreme Convention in 1982, he of Christ the Redeemer Council 15870 in Milford, Conn.

Above: Supreme Knight Dechant presents the first Gaudium et Spes Award to Mother Teresa of Calcutta at the 110th Supreme Convention in New York City, Aug. 4, 1992.

Right: Virgil Dechant marches with athletes at the opening ceremony of the 1987 Special Olympics World Games, at Notre Dame Sta- dium in South Bend, Ind.

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A Chicago council of police officers puts faith into action through community outreach and fraternal service

by Maryangela Román

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Members of St. Michael the Archangel Police Council 12173 pray for fellow law enforcement officers and their families at the Gold Star Families Memorial in Chicago March 1. Standing in front (left to right), police chaplain Deacon Bob Montelongo, Grand Knight Dennis Fitzgerald and police chaplain Rabbi Moshe Wolf lead the prayer.

n a recent Sunday, two dozen men wearing badges gath- BROTHERS IN BLUE Oered in front of Chicago’s Gold Star Families Memorial It was Father Tom Nangle, a priest of the Archdiocese of and said a prayer. At a distance the gold stars on their chests Chicago and chaplain of the police department, who had look like any police or sheriff badge, but a closer look reveals the idea for St. Michael the Archangel Council, named in a Knights of Columbus emblem and the words “St. Michael honor of the patron of police officers and military personnel. the Archangel, Patron of Police Council 12173.” Police officer Michael Schumacher was assisting with the This intersection of faith and law enforcement defines chaplain ministry in the late 1990s when Father Nangle Council 12173, the first police council in the world. Founded made the suggestion. 22 years ago, it now has nearly 430 members, bound together “Our parishes had councils, but we never had anything like by their shared Catholic faith, law enforcement experience a police council,” recalled Schumacher, an officer for 40 years and desire to help others. until his retirement in 2004. “Rather than be involved in a Grand Knight Dennis Fitzgerald explained, “You only parish council, there’s a lot of good we could do as police of- have to watch us for a little while and if we spark your in- ficers with police-related issues.” terest, we’re going to be asking you to be part of something A charter member of Council 12173 when it was established exceptional.” in 1998, Schumacher became grand knight the following year;

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Father Nangle was the first council chaplain. Schumacher of St. Charles Borromeo and Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, passed the baton to Fitzgerald, also a retired police officer, both in the Chicago area. in 2016. Another key outreach for the council is the annual Christ- Now serving his third year as grand knight, Fitzgerald is mas party for Blair School, a Chicago public school that serves one of the top recruiters in the country, bringing in more than children with disabilities ages 3 to 6. For years, the Knights 170 new members. He attributes much of his success to his have donated a truckload of gifts for the children, food for “billboard jacket,” which features Knights of Columbus families and money for the school to purchase necessities such patches on each arm, on his chest and on his back, as well as as diapers and washing machines to care for the students’ a Chicago police star and gold star. But spend a few minutes many needs. The Knights also staff the party, with one dressed with him and it’s clear his passion for the Knights is the key as Santa Claus and others as his helpers. selling point. “In the world today, people have so many negative things “The police family, the law enforcement family, they know to say about organized law enforcement. It’s nice to have the what these symbols mean, and the billboard grabs attention,” other side of that, where police are out there within the com- Fitzgerald said. “But then it’s my responsibility to hold that munity, interacting with people,” Schumacher explained. attention and give them something to think about.” Under the leadership of Schumacher and his wife, Marcia, He had the jacket customized with numerous interior the council offers seminars with NAMI, the National Alliance pockets, allowing him to quickly produce decals, stars, chal- on Mental Illness, to educate department members on mental lenge coins and even Form 100 membership documents. illness and appropriate ways to handle mental health. During the recent visit to Chicago’s Gold Star Families He said the council also supports marriage counseling Memorial and Park with members of Council 12173 programs for officers and spouses strained by the long and several other officers, he signed up a new hours and high stresses of the work. member on the spot. Policework is demanding, said Fitzgerald, re- Fitzgerald is not deterred by rejection. flecting on a career in which three of his “If they say no, I respect that, but I partners were shot and three fellow offi- am persistent,” he chuckled. cers were killed. “Nobody bats a thousand, “The profession I chose isn’t not even this guy with the for everybody — you have to fancy jacket.” want to help people because Over the years, Lt. John when they absolutely, positively Garrido said no to Fitzgerald need help, you are the one they more than once, each time citing call,” he said. his busy schedule. Describing the “I always worked busy areas, and grand knight as “tenacious,” Gar- it was challenging,” he added. “No rido recalled that Fitzgerald would ifs, ands or buts — my faith was def- give him his card and say, “We’re wait- initely a benefit.” ing for you.” Members know they will find both ca- In addition to being a Chicago po- maraderie and support for their faith lice officer, Garrido is a practicing at- through their council, and many regu- torney and a board member of his local larly attend the bimonthly Blue Mass at chamber of commerce. With his wife, he Mercy Home for Boys and Girls celebrated by police — and oversees a nonprofit that finds homes for stray animals. But council — chaplain Father Dan Brandt. earlier this year, he made time to become a member of Coun- “We encounter a whole lot of bad as police officers, and it cil 12173. takes its toll when you have a front-row seat,” explained Gar- “The last time I was asked to join, something clicked,” he rido. “Having a strong Catholic infrastructure helps me deal explained. “I reflected on not the number of times I was with the things I have seen. I can’t imagine what it would be asked, but by whom I was asked. These were all good men — like to go through 29 years on the job without it.” honorable men. I guess I just thought great people make a Garrido joined Council 12173 in January, participating in great organization. It was time I made time to be part of a combined exemplification ceremony with more than 40 something special.” other Knights. “It was pretty powerful to be part of such a large group of BUILDING A STRONG COMMUNITY candidates,” said Garrido. “I can see how this will strengthen The council members, who meet monthly at the Fraternal my faith.”♦ Order of Police Hall, are involved in a host of fundraising activities benefiting more than 14 charities. This past year, for MARYANGELA ROMÁN is a veteran journalist based in example, the council donated money to the Missionary Sisters Milwaukee.

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From top: Supreme Knight Carl Anderson, Cardinal Francis George, then-archbishop of Chicago, and then-Supreme Secretary Charles Foos (right) present council charters to the grand knights of St. Michael the Archangel Police Council 12173 and St. Florian Council 12911 in Chicago in 2003. • Chicago police and fire personnel, including members of Councils 12173 and 12911, present the colors at the Supreme Convention in 2005. • Members of Council 12173 visit at the Gold Star Families Memorial, with Soldier Field visible in the background. Left to right: Judge Jesse Reyes, Grand Knight Dennis Fitzgerald, Deacon Bob Montelongo, Past Grand Knight Michael Schumacher. • Schumacher, pictured with the Chicago skyline in the distance, served as grand knight of Council 12173 until 2016. Like his successor, Schumacher is a retired Chicago police officer. • Grand Knight Fitzgerald (right) stands with recent recruit Lt. John Garrido after the Chicago Police Chaplain Ministry’s bimonthly Blue Mass. # #"! # # #""# !" ## # !# "!

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IN UNITY WITH PETER Knights of Columbus Board of Directors pilgrimage celebrates a century of collaboration with the Bishop of Rome

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Pope Francis greets Supreme Knight Carl Anderson during a papal audience with the Knights of Columbus Board of Directors Feb. 10 in the Vatican’s Sala Clementina.

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ope Francis greeted members of the Knights of Columbus of Columbus Silver Rose pilgrimage later this year. PBoard of Directors and their families Feb. 10 in the Vat- During the weeklong pilgrimage, board members visited ican, and commended the Order’s “generous commitment … the five sports centers that the Order built in the 1920s and to serve all in need.” The audience took place during the continues to sponsor today. Other pilgrimage events included board’s pilgrimage to Rome Feb. 7-13 in commemoration of a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican museums and the historic the 100th anniversary of the Order’s service there. restorations funded by the Order; Mass in the Vatican Gar- Supreme Knight Carl Anderson, in his formal greeting to the dens; and visits to the catacombs of St. Sebastian and the Holy Father, explained, “It was a century ago that we began our basilicas of St. John Lateran and of St. Mary Major. work in this city at the request of Pope Benedict XV. He asked One of the last events of the pilgrimage was a Mass Feb. 12 the Knights’ leadership to help poor children in Rome by start- in the Vatican’s Pauline Chapel, where the college of cardinals ing centers in the Eternal City to offer sports and catechesis.” celebrates Mass during a papal conclave. Pope Francis sur- The supreme knight and Supreme Chaplain Archbishop prised the Knights of Columbus group by stopping at the William Lori of Baltimore also met with Pope Francis before chapel after his weekly Wednesday audience. Before praying the audience to discuss the Order’s current charitable initia- an Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be with them, he spoke tives. In the course of their conversation, the supreme knight briefly in Italian: “I wanted to come to say hello to you and presented two silver roses to the Holy Father, asking him to thank you for everything you do ….” He then added in Eng- keep one and to bless the other for the 60th annual Knights lish: “Don’t forget to pray for me. This job is not easy.”♦

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Pope Francis Welcomes the Knights of Columbus

The Holy Father greeted members of the Knights of Columbus Board of Directors and their families at an audience in the Vatican Feb. 10.

“DEAR FRIENDS, I offer you a warm welcome on the occasion of your pilgrimage to Rome in this year that marks the centennial of the charitable activity of the Knights of Columbus in this city. “In fact, it was 100 years ago that my predecessor Pope Benedict XV invited the Knights of Columbus to provide humanitarian aid to young people and others in Rome following the terrible conflict of the First World War. The Knights responded generously, establishing sports centers for youth that quickly became places for education, catechesis and the distribution of food and other essentials so needed at that time. In this way, your Order proved faithful to the vision of your founder, Venerable Michael McGivney, who was inspired by the principles of Christian charity and fraternity to assist those most in need. “Today the Knights of Columbus continue their work of evangelical charity and fraternity in a variety of fields. I think in particular of your faithful witness to the sa- credness and dignity of human life, evident at both the local and national levels. This conviction has also led the Knights of Columbus to aid, both materially and spir- itually, those Christian communities in the Middle East that are suffering the effects of violence, war and poverty. I thank all the members of your Order for seeing in our persecuted and displaced brothers and sisters of that region neighbors for whom you are a sign of God’s infinite love.

Opposite page: The Knights of Columbus Board of

Directors and senior staff stand before the façade of St. Peter’s Basilica, which was renovated in the 1980s with the Order’s support. • Top right: Supreme Knight Carl Anderson and Supreme Chaplain Arch- bishop William Lori present the pope with an Italian translation of Parish Priest, the biography of Father Michael McGivney by Douglas Brinkley and Julie Fe nster. • Lower right: Pope Francis returns to meet again with the Knights of Columbus delegation in the Vatican’s Pauline Chapel Feb. 12.

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“Since its foundation, the Knights of Columbus has demonstrated its unswerving devotion to the successor of Peter. The establishment of the Vicarius Christi Fund is a testimony to this devotion, as well as to the desire of the Knights to share in the Pope’s solicitude for all the Churches and in his universal mission of charity. In our world, marked by divisions and in- equalities, the generous commitment of your Order to serve all in need offers, especially to young people, an important inspiration to overcome a globalization of indifference and build together a more just and in- clusive society. “Dear brothers and sisters, with these thoughts and sentiments, I entrust you to the loving intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. I offer my prayers for the members of the Knights of Columbus and their families, and for the good works accomplished by the local councils worldwide. To all of you present here and to your loved ones, I impart my heartfelt blessing, and I ask you, please, to pray for me.”♦

Called to Ongoing Conversion

“WE ARE BLESSED to celebrate Mass here in the Pauline Chapel — it is a sign of the Order’s closeness to our Holy Father, Pope Francis. … It is also in this chapel that the cardinals gather before proceeding to the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope. “Let’s briefly focus our attention on Michelangelo’s fresco, ‘The Conversion of Saul.’ … I am struck by the extended arm of the risen and exalted Christ reaching down out of heaven to touch and transform the life of Saul. Saul is on the ground, his eyes blinded, his companions stunned, with Damascus lying off in the distance. The mission which Saul planned to accomplish did not come about. Rather, God gave him a new mission, to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. … “It is clear how the lessons of this fresco apply to us, the Knights of Columbus. As we seek to be a global force for the new evangelization, a force that is constituted by members who are missionary disciples, members who are courageous in pro- fessing their faith and virtuous in living it, you and I must tend always, first and foremost, to our own ongoing conversion. “We who seek to evangelize must ourselves be evangelized. We who seek to be the Lord’s instruments in bringing about the conversion of those who are lukewarm in the practice of their Top left: Pope Francis shares a smile with the infant son of faith — we ourselves must constantly allow the strong right arm Kelly and Stephen Feiler, senior assistant to the supreme knight. of Christ’s grace and mercy to reach down out of heaven to open our eyes to the wonder of his truth and love, to transform our Above: Archbishop Lori blesses a new mosaic of St. Michael the hearts, to set them aflame, to put us on course for the mission- Archangel Feb. 9 in the chapel at Campo Sportivo Pio XI, one ary journeys that each of us has been called to undertake.” of the Order’s sports centers in Rome.

— Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore, Pauline Chapel, Vatican, Homily, Feb. 12

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SPIRITUALREFLECTION Divine Mercy Rediscovered

God desires to heal our hearts with his infinite love

by Sister Gaudia Skass, OLM

here is nothing more that man needs than Divine complete forgiveness of sins and punishment. On that day, “TMercy — that love which is benevolent, which is all the divine floodgates through which graces flow are open. compassionate, which raises man above his weakness to Let no soul fear to draw near to me, even though its sins be the infinite heights of the holiness of God.” as scarlet” (Diary, 699). These striking words of St. John Paul II — and even Jesus’ words recorded in St. Faustina’s Diary are filled more his life — show us his deep understanding of the with passionate love for us. The phrase “I desire” appears mystery of the heart of God, as well as the mystery of the approximately 70 times in her journal! The message is human heart. From the depths of our being, we cry out that God gives himself to us fully; he offers us his own for someone who will look heart, first and foremost in the upon us with empathy, seeing sacraments. In the Divine our imperfections and struggles Mercy image, we see rays and also seeing beyond them. pouring forth from Jesus’ Whether we are aware of it or heart. They symbolize the pu- not, our hearts are crying out rifying and life-giving sacra- for the merciful God, and his ments — most of all his heart is filled with compassion merciful presence in the sacra- for us. He is not scandalized by ments of baptism, confession our misery and brokenness, and and the Eucharist. He pa- he never tires of forgiving. He is tiently waits for us, his hands always ready to generously be- overflowing with gifts. stow graces upon us, even more For some of us, it may be a than we dare to ask for. temptation to undervalue our We meditate upon God’s in- own personal need for Divine finite, merciful love — most Mercy. If this is the case, may powerfully revealed in Jesus’ this feast day be an occasion to passion, death and resurrection Sister Gaudia gives a presentation at the Saint John ask for the grace to see what — in a special way during the Paul II National Shrine on Divine Mercy Sunday God has done for us and is seasons of Lent and Easter. And 2019. The annual celebration has become one of the doing for us; the grace to see to crown these most holy days, most popular events at the shrine each year. that our very lives are the work we’ve been given the celebra- of his mercy. tion of Divine Mercy Sunday It is also an occasion to ex- on the last day of the Easter Octave (this year April 19). amine our conscience and to ask: How am I using my St. John Paul II instituted this solemn feast for the uni- time and encounters with others to share the good news versal Church 20 years ago; he died on its vigil five years of God’s great mercy? St. John Paul II encouraged all of later, in 2005; he was beatified on Divine Mercy Sunday us: “Be apostles of Divine Mercy!” Let us humbly turn to in 2011; and he was canonized on the same feast in 2014. our merciful Father in prayer, asking him to open our eyes By establishing this feast, on the same day he canonized and hearts to gratefully receive and enthusiastically share Sister Faustina Kowalska, St. John Paul II fulfilled the de- his mercy — so that, through us, he may heal all sire that Jesus expressed in a vision to St. Faustina nearly wounded hearts.♦ 70 years earlier. As recounted in her Diary, Jesus said: “My daughter, tell the whole world about my inconceivable Mercy. SISTER GAUDIA SKASS is a member of the Congrega- I desire that the feast of Mercy be a refuge and shelter for all tion of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, founded in souls, and especially for poor sinners. … The soul that will Poland. She gives talks and works with pilgrims at the go to confession and receive holy Communion shall obtain Saint John Paul II National Shrine in Washington, D.C.

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THE SAINT JOHN PAUL II NATIONAL SHRINE AND ITS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS, VISIT JP2SHRINE.ORG

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Members of Our Lady of Incarnation Assembly 3309 in Rio Rancho, N.M., in conjunction with volun- teersKNIGHTSACTION from Daniels FamilyIN Funeral Services, participated inREPORTS Wreaths FROM Across COUNCILS America. Volunteers& ASSEMBLIES laid wreaths on the graves of veterans in Vista Verde Memorial Park.

FAITH

CHALICE PROGRAM Bishop Edward A. Fitzgerald Assembly 548 in Rochester, Minn., established a chalice program in 2014 that provides seminarians of the Dio- cese of Winona-Rochester with two gifts. First, each seminarian receives $500 at the end of his Theology II year of study. The second gift, chosen by the seminarian, is presented upon ordi- nation: an engraved chalice, paten and carrying case; a traveling Mass kit; or an ad- +?3#?98@=1@%>-<:8'?0=@)?95>@ ?'28=-?0=@)>59?6@ ?>9:@=1@ ?828@$=2;5<4@@<; ditional $500. )6'.@=4>;6.@/>9:<5:?@<;@>@/<409<3>0?@:=@:7?@ >8;>@ 9>@3=;>8:?9,.@-7<57@7=28?8@:7? 9?(?9?6@<3>0?@=1@29@&>6,@=1@$'8:=57=->.@>48=@;=-;@>8@:7?@"4>5@+>6=;;>*@;@:7?@/<4! 09<3>0?.@3?3#?98@7?4/?6@=2:@<;@3>;,@->,8.@<;5426<;0@/9=(<6<;0@:?57;<5>4@7?4/@>;6@:9>11<5 3>;>0?3?;:*@$=2;5<4@57>/4><;8@>48=@5?4?#9>:?6@+>88@>;6@4?6@:7?@/<409<38@<;@/9>,?9*

RESTING PLACE to feed the hungry. Council GIFT OF THE WORD Our Lady of the Lake Coun- 1133 also sponsored a For 20 years, Father Michael cil 10463 in Lago Vista, parish mission, “Dying Kaluzny Council 7822 in Texas, built a covered pavil- with Jesus, Rising with Devon, Alberta, has pur- ion for an outdoor colum- Jesus,” at St. Francis Xavier chased Bibles for all grade 4 barium on the grounds of St. Catholic Church to prepare students at Holy Spirit Mary, Our Lady of the Lake parishioners for Lent. More Catholic School. The stu- "<87=/@ ;9<2?@ );57?' Catholic Church. The pro- than 170 people attended dents use the Bibles in their +>9:;?'@ =1@ %2?(=@ &>9?6= tective pavilion enhances the the event, which began with religious education classes 9<07:@9?5?<(?8@:7?@ @=1@$@)<4! columbarium, which holds spiritual talks and concluded and take them home to keep (?9@=8?@19=3@"<87=/@ >3?8 urns containing cremated re- with Mass, eucharistic ado- at the end of the school year. >3>,=@ =1@ &>9?6=@ 4?1:@ =; mains, as a gathering site for ration and Benediction. :7?@ >:?->,@:=@:7?@ 3?9<5>8 memorial ceremonies and a ROSARY, ;:?9;>:<=;>4@"9<60?@5=;;?5:! place for private prayer. WEATHER RAIN OR SHINE <;0@ +?<5=@ >;6@ :7?@ *)* SHELTER Verde Council 2493 in Cot- +?3#?98@ =1@ )>;:=@ %<= BREAD AND MISSION Members of San Nicholas tonwood, Ariz., sponsors a $=2;5<4@ @ <;@ %2?(= Members of Father Rene de Tolentino Council monthly outdoor rosary. &>9?6=.@ >3>248.@ >;6 Menard Council 1133 in 16133 in Gubat, Luzon The rosary, prayed in front =:7?98@>::?;6?6@:7?@:9>;81?9* Merrill, Wis., and their South, constructed a car of Immaculate Conception 7?@ 9=8?@ ->8@ ?85=9:?6@ := wives prepared and served a shed for their parish priest Catholic Church in all 8<:?8@<;@+?<5=@#?1=9?@9?>57! hot dinner for some 150 and attached it to his resi- weather, is offered for the <;0@<:8@1<;>4@6?8:<;>:<=;.@:7? people as part of Breaking dence to shelter his vehicle protection of life and family ">8<4<5>@ =1@ 2>6>42/?@ 6? Bread, a community project from inclement weather. in the United States. +=;:?99?,.@%2?(=@&?;*@

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FAMILY

FAMILY BENEFIT Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce (Québec) Council 2822 organized a brunch at the Saint-Joseph Community Center to benefit the family of a young boy with a com- plex brain disorder requir- ing acute intensive care. All proceeds went toward the child’s medical needs.

##% % $" $% " %% "% $"%!$!#% %$"% #% "# $!#%$!%!#% " %$""$%$ % " % "%!#%$"% % !%#!%$! % #%$ %#! ! #% "#%$"% ! %$##%"% " %$"% !#%$#%$" $% #%!% !

TOY POLISH FAMILY evenings at St. Patrick’s STORY JAMBOREE Catholic Church to prepare Utah Chapter Knights col- Port Clinton (Ohio) Council barbecue dinners for the lected stuffed animals from 1750 celebrated the commu- parish youth groups. parishes in the Salt Lake nity’s Polish heritage by Valley region to comfort sponsoring its annual Perch, ROOFS OVER children in crisis. After gath- Peach, Pierogi and Polka Fes- THEIR HEADS ering more than 3,000 tival. Over three days, guests Members of St. Patrick’s stuffed toys over several enjoyed homemade food, live Council 7898 in Clear months, the Knights deliv- music, free dance lessons and Lake, Iowa, participated in ered them to emergency per- family fellowship. the council’s second Habitat sonnel and victim advocates for Humanity home build, for distribution. AFTERSHOCK AID working alongside the fu- Mary Queen of Peace ture homeowners. -$"%," !% !##"% # LUZON Council 8134 in Cotabato, #"% % ) "% +$% !# FREE THROW Mindanao, donated food FOR VISITING -#$!% " %'% "% Mary Queen of Heaven and packages and personal hy- FAMILIES #! "%*(%$"% % " Earth-Lancaster Council giene items to families in North Creek Council 9434 $& $"% % %"$ 16575 in Imus City, Luzon Kidapawan City affected by in Mill Creek, Wash., do- $"% !#% !#%! %#"%! South, sponsored its third a recent earthquake. nated $500 to Matthew # #%# #%## annual Knights of Columbus House, a Christian non- #% " %$##%$# Free Throw Championship. YOUTH profit that provides tempo- $$#% %$% !#%," ! Council members judged the BARBECUE rary housing, food and #"! % !$! "#% "% !# rounds, awarded medals and Members of St. Patrick’s other services to families of #%$!%$"%## provided free shirts and Markham (Ontario) Coun- people incarcerated in % %" ! food to participants. cil 7689 volunteered two nearby prisons.

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COMMUNITY

DONATE AND DINE For more than a decade, Holy Family Council 14712 in Nutley, N.J., has hosted three blood drives every year. At a recent drive, which collected more than 30 units of blood, members and their wives cooked pasta and meatballs for all attendees.

SAVE THE CHAIRS Members of St. Casimir Council 9711 in Lansing, Mich., and St. Casimir Catholic Church parish- +2&,1'2*10/1(!2-,$)/ !20211-2+2 /#20-$0-1/20-2+&.%,'2"2,.2'$+.&,.! ioners gathered to repair ''#!22/01*20-/2,.2/)12 )0-+%2 )0 1!20.20..&0'2 /#20/-,% *202(,..1-20.(2%)0-,/2*)0 more than 200 of the ,.$21 1./20/2 /#20-$0-1/20-20-,*)#2)0.*2/+20+&/2 2 +'&./11-*2)+2*+',%,/1( church’s broken metal fold- '1($1*2/+2)0 12/)1,-2)0,-2*)+-.2+.2*/0$1!2/)121 1./2-0,*1(2+-12/)0.2 !"""2+-2/)12 /# ing chairs. Led by project ,.%1./2(120&'2 +%,1/20.(2/)1210-21%1**,/,1*21(,0/-,%20.%1-2+&.(0/,+.#2+&.%,' manager Ken Watterson "2(+.0/1(2 ""20.(20**,*/1(2,/)2+-$0.,0/,+.20.(2%'10.&2+-2/)121 1./#22+&-/) and funded by a parish col- 1$-112)+.+-2$&0-(20*20'*+2-1*1./# lection, the “Save the Chairs” team worked every Saturday for two months to TWISTER FIXER CONCESSION IRISH KNIGHTS ensure the chairs were More than 30 members of KINGS WERE SMILING sturdy, safe and ready to be Father Abbot Raphael De- Blessed Trinity Council Incarnation Council 6364 put back into service. Salvo Council 14619 in 12274 in Greer, S.C., pre- in Mantua, N.J., hosted Scranton, Ark., cleaned sented a check for $3,000 Emmet Cahill, a popular roads and properties dam- to the Greer High School Irish tenor, in concert at the aged by a tornado. Knights Transition Class, a life Church of the Incarnation. completed restoration proj- skills program for high More than 300 people at- ects for several neighbors, school students with spe- tended the performance, including cleaning up the cial needs. The Knights and proceeds from ticket property of a couple whose raised the funds by selling sales supported the coun- home had been destroyed concessions at an events cil’s charities and the and removing debris from venue in Greenville. church’s financial needs. the fields of a retired farmer. PLANTING SEEDS HEALTHY SPRING For the second year in a START CLEANING row, members of Kalayaan Father Nicholas Point Members of St. Joan of Arc Assembly 2749 in Munt- Council 4375 in Tecumseh, Members of St. Catherine of Council 14357 in Phoenix inlupa City, Luzon South, Ontario, donated $1,000 to Siena Council 5806 in Trum- held a workday to clean planted hundreds of trees at H.J. Lassaline Catholic Ele- bull, Conn., enjoy a little and reorganize the store- New Bilibid Prison in co- mentary School in Windsor friendly competition in a room at St. Joan of Arc operation with minimum- to help fund healthy break- bean bag toss at the annual Catholic Church. security inmates. fasts for students in need. council family picnic.

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COUNCIL ALLOWANCE St. Michael’s Council 12786 in Kelso, Wash., organized its fourth annual shopping charity event for elementary and middle school students. Teachers, principals and counselors identified 18 children in need, and the council used funds raised from dinners and other donations to give each child $200 to spend on coats and other clothes. Members accompanied the students as they picked out items at a local department store.

OUR DAILY TOAST Father Broderick Council 1219 in Miramichi, New Brunswick, donated two new toasters to Mgr. Henri- -&'#-' -#,&+'-(")$-$(%+*-($"!# ($-+)+,- ,#+- '*-#(*-) #,-) (!!)-)$ -*,,$ Comier Lodge, a facility !'")!-&)$ -$(%+*-,!"',-)-*%(,$+-' -&,!(, -*#!(,*- &'-+%,-#&,,-'#$"(!-'#+*( , providing free accommoda- #&-) -' - ,&"-)+%'!("-%#&"%-($-'$",-%,-+&#"-"'$+)($, -'&,-+%)$--"'+*-)$ tions for cancer patients '+%,&-*#!(,*-%("%-+%,-$(%+*- (*+&(#+, -+'-)&(*%,*-"'#$"(!*-)$ -),*%( +-")* who have traveled to receive +%&'#%'#+-+%,-(*!)$ -%'#*)$ *-' -#,&+'-(")$*-,&,-!, +-%',!,**-) +,&-)-*,&(,*-' -,)&+% treatment at an oncology #),*-)$ -) +,&*%'"*-*+&#"-+%,-+,&&(+'&-($-,)&!- center in Moncton.

ALL POST COMMEMORATIVE BOTTLED UP TO PANTRY COOK-OFF For three years, St. Christo- St. Katharine Drexel Coun- St. Mary of the Hills Coun- pher’s Council 12372 in cil 11177 in Cape Coral, Fla., cil 13950 in Rochester Hills, Mississauga, Ontario, has and its associated women’s Mich., raised more than conducted a refundable bot- group helped the Sisters of $500 for parish youth pro- tle drive, collecting empty the Blessed Sacrament, a reli- grams at its annual chili bottles from St. Christo- gious order founded by the cook-off, held in honor of pher’s Catholic Church council’s namesake, convert late Past Grand Knight Bill parishioners. Last year, the part of a former post office Sabanos. John Wohleber, a member council distributed “bottle in Belle Glade into a food of Christ Our Redeemer banks” to parishioners wish- bank and diabetes-friendly SERVICE WEEKEND Council 13527 in Niceville, ing to donate spare change. food pantry to serve the Christ the King Council Fla., paints a hallway during Since the program began, the community. 9257 in Milwaukie, Ore., a council workday at Twin council has raised more than began a weekend of service Cities Pavilion, a nonprofit $10,000 for local charities. WILD GAINS on Saturday by collecting and assisted living and retire- Bishop Dingman Council donating 20 bags of blankets ment home. The facility CEMETERY 10805 and Father John F. and large coats to the home- serves low- to middle-in- UPKEEP O’Neill Council 10722, less ministry at St. André Bes- come senior citizens and re- Holy Redeemer Council both in Council Bluffs, sette Church in Portland. lies on donations from local 1621 in Marshall, Minn., Iowa, donated $35,000 That evening, members businesses and churches. donated $1,500 to the Holy raised at their annual Wild served a free soup dinner to For several years, Council Redeemer Cemetery Com- Game Dinner to more than donors and parishioners. On 13527 has supported the mittee for repairing and im- 20 local organizations. In 19 Sunday morning, the council Pavilion with monthly dona- proving the roads of Calvary years sponsoring the event, held its annual Cub Scout tions, supplies and hands- Cemetery in Holy Re- the councils have raised a breakfast, raising some $400 on renovation work. deemer Parish. total of $470,000. for a local Cub Scout pack.

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LIFE

CANCER RESEARCH RUN Scott A. MacDonald Coun- cil 8512 in North Richland Hills, Texas, held its fifth annual memorial run to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. More than 100 runners, including members and their families, participated in the 15K and 5K races and the 1-mile fun run along the Trinity River in Fort Worth. Over the past five years, Council 8512 donated more than $16,000 to St. Jude’s. --(&.*!. *$ . +(+).*'#+$..+'.-(+"+,'.",%*.#,(( .,.,''-(.+'.)%-.*+&-.,(#% !*(. +!-.%-$".,'',$$ .+'.*&-(,'#-.*!.)%-.,''+-(&,( .*!. .,(#%-(&.-,'.,) $+,.,+&.,(.+'.*+&-.,'". (*#--"-".)*.,.(,$$ .,).)%-.&)- &.*!.)%-.",%*.),)-., +)*$.

SPECIAL NIGHT OUT Benedict Catholic Church SMILES St. Catherine of Siena Coun- parishioner whose grandson IN ZAMBALES cil 9923 in Kennesaw, Ga., has severe physical disabili- Rev. Father Vincent O’Brien and St. Joseph Council 4599 ties. The clinic where he re- Council 10103 in Zambales, in Marietta assisted with St. ceives therapy approached Luzon South, hosted a free Catherine and St. Joseph Father Ryszard Stradomski, dental clinic at the hall Catholic Churches’ third pastor of St. Benedict where the council meets, ar- annual “Dancing Under the Church and council chap- ranging for local dentists to Stars,” a formal evening lain, to request assistance, provide checkups and tooth event for approximately 250 which led the Knights to extractions for approxi- attendees, including some come to the family’s aid. mately 50 people who were 100 children and adults with unable to pay for dental care. disabilities. The evening fea- BUILDING tured red carpet introduc- A NETWORK RESOURCE CENTER tions, dinner, dancing and St. Lucy of Racine Council HITS THE ROAD entertainment. The Knights 15659 in Racine/Sturtevant, Morgan Hill (Calif.) Coun- prepared and served the din- Wis., donated $12,000 to cil 8265, in conjunction - ) . (,'". '+%).,+" ner and also provided a pro- Care Net, the nation’s with Gilroy Council 2469 $,+.*!.).)- %-'.)%- fessional DJ. largest network of preg- and many local Christian ,() (. *'#+$. . +' nancy resource centers. The churches, raised funds and ,. (--. +&. &-&. , WHEELCHAIR AID gift combined the proceeds received a matching dona- '--. &#**)-(. )%-. #*'#+$ St. Benedict Council 15225 of baby bottle campaigns at tion from the Supreme (#%,&-".!*(.%+.,!)-(.%- in Crystal River, Fla., St. Lucy and St. Sebastian Council to renovate the $*&).%+&.$-.)*.+'!-#)+*'.%- helped raise nearly $40,000 Catholic Churches with a mobile medical unit of In- &#**)-(.%,&.,$$*-".%+.)* to purchase a wheelchair- substantial contribution by formed Choices, a preg- &), .*+$-.%+$-.,+)+'.!*( accessible van for a St. an anonymous donor. nancy resource center. ,. (*&)%-&+&

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PATRIOTISM

FIRST RESPONDER APPRECIATION St. Jude’s Council 12092 in Bellmawr, N.J., hosted an appreciation breakfast for the borough’s first responders, including police officers, fi- refighters and emergency medical technicians. Parishioners of St. Joachim Roman Catho- lic Church also attended.

WREATHS ACROSS NEW MEXICO Members of Msgr. John F. Scully Assembly 3418 in Riverview, Fla., teach students about Members of Our Lady of In- the U.S. flag at Progress Village Middle School of the Arts in Tampa. Gerald Coffey, Color carnation Assembly 3309 in Corps Commander Rick Gnatowsky and Past Grand Knight Mark Lovejoy (left to right) Rio Rancho, N.M., in held lessons for 150 students, explaining the flag’s history and how to handle it properly. conjunction with volunteers from Daniels Family Fune- ral Services, participated in RAMP GOLD STAR FAMILIES CELEBRATING Wreaths Across America. FOR A VET Bishop Salpointe Council CITIZENSHIP Volunteers laid wreaths on When a local veteran nee- 4584 in Sierra Vista, Ariz., West (Texas) Council 2305 the graves of veterans in Vista ded a wheelchair, members and parishioners of St. An- held a parish party to cele- Verde Memorial Park. of St. Christopher the Mar- drew the Apostle Catholic brate its former chaplain, tyr Council 13653 in Ho- Church together raised Father Anthony Odiong, ward City, Mich., and more than $13,000 to- after he became a U.S. citi- Father Solanus Casey As- wards construnction of a zen. Father Odiong emigra- sembly 2773 in Big Rapids Gold Star Family Memorial ted from Nigeria 14 years came to his aid. The at the Southern Arizona ago. Council members coo- Knights built a ramp for Veterans Memorial Ceme- ked and served lunch, orga- his home, helping the vete- tery. The monument ho- nized a polka dance and ran leave the house and get nors the immediate family presented Father Odiong to doctor’s appointments of service members who with gifts, including a flag more easily. died in active duty. that had been flown over the U. S. Capitol. Virginia State Deputy Bob PARISH BLESSED Szerszynski (right) greets a PROVIDES FOR SERVICE Vietnam veteran at an Honor Members of Cypress (Calif.) Father Seamus Kerr, cha- Flight Dinner organized by Ed- Council 8599 collected do- plain of Father Modeste ward Douglass White Council nations from parishioners at Demmers Assembly 2648 in 2473 in Arlington. More than St. Irenaeus Catholic Church Wenatchee, Wash., blessed kofc.org 400 veterans enjoyed a meal to purchase wheelchairs for members of Combat Vete- exclusive served by members. Council the Veterans Administration rans International, a nonpro- 2473 regularly hosts dinners Hospital in Long Beach. fit organization dedicated to See more “Knights in for Honor Flight veterans, who Thanks to the generosity of veterans. The assembly host- Action” reports and travel to Washington, D.C., to photos at the parish, the council was ed the veterans group for the www.kofc.org/ visit memorials and Arlington able to purchase 50 wheel- blessing and provided coffee knightsinaction National Cemetery. chairs for veterans in need. and doughnuts.

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KNIGHTSOFCOLUMBUSNEWS

K OF C ITEMS Building Firm Foundations OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS Colorado Knights restore historic Catholic churches IN THE UNITED STATES THE ENGLISH COMPANY INC. ometimes, building up Official council and Fourth Degree equipment S the Church requires 1-800-444-5632 rolling up your sleeves. www.kofcsupplies.com When members of St. KNIGHTS GEAR CANADA Mark Highlands Ranch Official council and Fourth Degree Council 1498 began to equipment 1-888-266-1211 renovate the Church of knightsgear.ca San Francisco de Assisi in San Francisco, Colo., they discovered 30 years’ worth of pigeon droppings in the JOIN THE FATHER bell tower. The pileup was ! MCGIVNEYGUILD so bad that it prevented The Church of San Francisco de Assisi in San Francisco, Please enroll me in the the bell from ringing. Colo., is pictured after extensive renovations by members Father McGivney Guild: “I’ve done some dirty of St. Mark Highlands Ranch Council 1498. NAME jobs, but that pigeon ADDRESS scooping thing, that ranks up pretty high,” said project leader Keith Lowry. CITY The unpleasant job served a noble mission: restoring sacramental life to STATE/PROVINCE another historic Colorado church. Since 2016, Council 1498 has organized ZIP/POSTAL CODE such restoration projects every summer at churches around the state. Complete this coupon and mail to: Last year, more than 30 Knights traveled over 200 miles to work on two The Father mission churches of Sangre de Cristo Parish in southern Colorado. In ad- McGivney Guild, 1 Columbus Plaza, dition to cleaning and repairing the bell tower of the Church of San Fran- New Haven, CT cisco, they applied more than 50 gallons of blue and white paint to the 06510-3326 or church exterior, hired electricians to upgrade the wiring, and installed a gas enroll online at: www.fathermcgivney.org line and new furnaces for the Colorado winter. The Knights also completed major renova- OFFICIAL APRIL 1, 2020: tions last summer at San Acacio Mission Church To owners of Knights of Columbus insurance policies and persons in nearby San Acacio. Built in the mid-1800s, it responsible for payment of premiums on such policies: Notice is hereby gi ven that in accordance with the provisions of Section 84 of the Laws is the oldest active church in Colorado, and it of the Order, payment of insurance premiums due on a monthly basis to the Knights of Columbus by check made payable to Knights of needed a lot of work. The floor was “unusable,” Columbus and mailed to same at PO Box 1492, NEW HAVEN, CT 06506-1492, before the expiration of the grace period set forth in the said Lowry. “And they just flat out didn’t have policy. In Canada: Knights of Columbus, Place d’Armes Station, P.O. Box 220, M ontreal, QC H2Y 3G7 the money” for repairs. ALL MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOS, ARTWORK, EDITORIAL MAT- TER, AND ADVERTISING INQUIRIES SHOULD BE MAILED TO: Council member Dan Scribner, a general con- COLUMBIA, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-9982. RE- JECTED MATERIAL WILL BE RETURNED IF ACCOMPANIED BY A tractor, volunteered to oversee the project, which SELF-ADDRESSED ENVELOPE AND RETURN POSTAGE. PUR- CHASED MATERIAL WILL NOT BE RETURNED. OPINIONS BY required tearing out the wood floor and installing WRITERS ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRE- SENT THE VIEWS OF THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS. new boards. Mass was celebrated in the church SUBSCRIPTION RATES — IN THE U.S.: 1 YEAR, $6; 2 YEARS, $11; 3 YEARS, $15. FOR OTHER COUNTRIES ADD $2 PER YEAR. EXCEPT Dan Scribner, a member of Sept. 21, 2019, for the first time in several years. FOR CANADIAN SUBSCRIPTIONS, PAYMENT IN U.S. CURRENCY ONLY. SEND ORDERS AND CHECKS TO: ACCOUNTING DEPART- Council 1498, cuts new Thanks to the renovations, Mass can now be MENT, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-9982. floorboards to install at San celebrated in both churches in the winter as well as the summer months. They are also more avail- COLUMBIA (ISSN 0010-1869/USPS #123-740) IS PUBLISHED Acacio Mission Church, the MONTHLY BY THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, 1 COLUMBUS able for weddings, funerals and baptisms. PLAZA, NEW HAVEN, CT 06510-3326. PHONE: 203-752-4000, oldest active church in Colorado. www.kofc.org. PRODUCED IN USA. COPYRIGHT © 2020 BY Council 1498 funds its restoration projects with KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRO- DUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT PERMISSION the proceeds from an annual gala in its home diocese of Colorado Springs. In IS PROHIBITED. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NEW HAVEN, CT AND 2019, the Knights raised $25,000, which the Diocese of Pueblo matched. ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. POSTMASTER: SEND AD- DRESS CHANGES TO COLUMBIA, MEMBERSHIP DEPART- The bell at the Church of San Francisco now rings out loud and clear in MENT, P.O. BOX 554, ELMSFORD, NY 10523. CANADIAN POSTMASTER — PUBLICATIONS MAIL the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. AGREEMENT NO. 1473549. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, 50 “I can attest that it is a beautiful sound,” said Lowry. MACINTOSH BOULEVARD, CONCORD, ONTARIO L4K 4P3. PHILIPPINES — FOR PHILIPPINES SECOND-CLASS MAIL — reported by Andrew Butler and Margaret Kelly AT THE MANILA CENTRAL POST OFFICE. SEND RETURN COPIES TO KCFAPI, FRATERNAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, PO BOX 1511, MANILA.

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A PRAYER FOR PROTECTION IN TIME OF PANDEMIC

O Mary, you always brighten our path as a sign of salvation and of hope. We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick, who, at the Cross, took part in Jesus’ pain while remaining steadfast in faith. O loving Mother, you know what we need, and we are confident you will provide for us as at Cana in Galilee. Intercede for us with your Son Jesus, the Divine Physician, for those who have fallen ill, for those who are vulnerable, and for those who have died. Intercede also for those charged with protecting the health and safety of others and for those who are tending to the sick and seeking a cure. Help us, O Mother of Divine Love, to conform to the will of the Father and to do as we are told by Jesus, who took upon himself our suﬀerings and carried our sorrows, so as to lead us, through the Cross, to the glory of the Resurrection. Amen.

Under thy protection we seek refuge, O Holy Mother of God. In our needs, despise not our petitions, but deliver us always from all dangers, O glorious and blessed Virgin. Amen.

Adapted from the prayer of Pope Francis

The ancient fresco of the Madonna del Soccorso (Our Lady of Help) in St. Peter’s Basilica was restored with the support of the Knights of Columbus to mark KNIGHTSOFCOLUMBUS the Year of Faith (2012-2013). Photo courtesy of Fabbrica di San Pietro/M. Falcioni.

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PLEASE, DO ALL YOU CAN TO ENCOURAGE PRIESTLY AND RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS. YOUR PRAYERS AND SUPPORT MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

KEEP THE FAITH ALIVE

‘I BELONG TO GOD’S FAMILY.’

There was never a dull moment growing up with seven siblings. Little did I know that this experience would prepare me well for Benedictine life, a life of stability in community lived in the enclosure of the monastery. God led me to my vocation through many people and events. Would I have become a monk if my grandmother had not prayed that one of her grandsons would become a priest; if my dad had not told me, “It doesn’t hurt to give God the first option”; if my se- verely disabled sister had not been born, teaching us that we can find joy in being vulnerable and dependent? Nothing is more beautiful than encounter- ing Christ. We can find him — or, better, allow him to find us — if we stand firm in our commitment to God’s family, which is the Church. I didn’t lose my family when I entered the monastery; I joined a family much larger than 10. I belong to God’s family — this is the realization we can each come to if we open wide the door of our heart to Christ.

FATHER CAESARIUS MARPLE, OSB Westminster Abbey Mission, British Columbia