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KNIGHTSOFCOLUMBUS

j u n e 2 0 1 7 ♦ V o l u m e 9 7 ♦ n u m b e r 6 COLUMBIA

FEATURES 8 Calling for Peace in Egypt Pope Francis addresses persecuted Christians and gov- ernment leaders during his apostolic journey to Egypt. BY JOHN L. ALLEN JR. 14 Korea’s Martyred Mothers Seoul’s ‘Mothers’ Shrine’ celebrates the faith of women killed in one of Korea’s great persecutions. BY ALEX JENSEN 18 Generations of Brotherhood For many Knights, service to the Church and the Order is a family tradition uniting fathers, sons and grandsons. BY MATT HADRO 22 A ‘Miraculous Way’ for Student Moms North Carolina Knights support a unique residence for single mothers pursuing a college education. BY SUEANN HOWELL

Jewels of office held by members of the Hassan family, which includes four generations of grand knights and district deputies, are pictured at the Hassan family home in Warrenton, Va. (see article on p. 8).

DEPARTMENTS 36Building a better world Knights of Columbus News 13 Fathers for Good Our Order’s presence in Korea has Supreme Knight Meets With Our children need to learn that given the Knights an extraordinary Knights, Leaders in South Korea the wonders of the Catholic faith opportunity to serve the Church. • Order Provides Easter Food and of the created world go hand BY SUPREME KNIGHT CARL A. ANDERSON Baskets to Displaced Iraqi Fami- in hand. lies • Knights Walk for Life in the BY TODD H. AHERN 4 Learning the faith, Philippines living the faith 26 Knights in Action The feast of Corpus Christi invites us to worship Christ in the Eucharist and bring his presence to the world. BY SUPREME CHAPLAIN ARCHBISHOP WILLIAM E. LORI PLUS: Catholic Man of the Month Photo by Greg Gibson Photography

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EDITORIAL COLUMBIA

PUBLISHER Knights of Columbus Passing on the Faith ______WHEN FRANCIS Choe Kyeong-hwan undermined by dominant ideologies and SUPREME OFFICERS Carl A. Anderson and Mary Yi Seong-rye married as met with increasing indifference or scorn, SUPREME KNIGHT teenagers in early 19th-century Korea, Christianity in the West is threatened by Most Rev. William E. Lori, S.T.D. then known as the Kingdom of Joseon, it an extinction of a different kind — re- SUPREME CHAPLAIN Patrick E. Kelly was not an easy time to start a Catholic lated in no small part to the collapse of DEPUTY SUPREME KNIGHT family. The kingdom had begun execut- the domestic church, the family. Michael J. O’Connor ing Catholics several decades earlier, and The love of a mother is unquestionably SUPREME SECRETARY Ronald F. Schwarz Francis and Mary’s family was in constant important and irreplaceable in the lives of SUPREME TREASURER danger. They moved frequently and lived her children, but fathers also play an in- John A. Marrella SUPREME ADVOCATE in poverty before establishing a secluded dispensable role, especially when it comes ______Catholic village south of Seoul. After their to passing on the faith. According to a EDITORIAL arrest in 1839, Francis and Mary were major study that the Swiss government Alton J. Pelowski killed for their faith. By this time, their conducted in 1994 and published in EDITOR Andrew J. Matt first son, Thomas Choe Yang-eop, was 2000, the strongest predictor of a child’s MANAGING EDITOR studying as a seminarian. When he was future church attendance is the religious Anna M. Bninski eventually ordained, Thomas became observance of the father. The study found ASSOCIATE EDITOR Korea’s second native-born priest. that between 66 and 75 percent of chil- Together, St. Francis Francis Choe dren whose fathers regularly attend Kyeong-hwan, Blessed Mary Yi Seong- church go on to become at least irregular rye and Venerable Thomas Choe Yang- churchgoers as adults, even if the mother eop provide an extraordinary example of does not practice. If the father does not virtue and fidelity lived and taught practice, however, at least 60 percent will through the family (see page 14). The stay away from church altogether, even if Venerable Michael McGivney (1852-90) Apostle to the Young, Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds the mother is devout. Protector of Christian Family Life and us of the essential task of parents as “the From this perspective, the mission of Founder of the Knights of Columbus, Intercede for Us. principal and first educators of their chil- the Knights of Columbus bears greater ______dren” (1653). This responsibility in- weight. Strengthening the faith of HOW TO REACH US cludes spiritual formation: “Parents Catholic men, building up the domestic MAIL should initiate their children at an early church, practicing a charity that evangel- COLUMBIA 1 Columbus Plaza age into the mysteries of the faith of izes — these are vital to the future of the New Haven, CT 06510-3326 which they are the ‘first heralds’ for their Church. In anticipation of Father’s Day, ADDRESS CHANGES 203-752-4210, option #3 children” (2225). June 18, this issue of Columbia features [email protected] In places where Christians face the a few of the countless K of C families PRAYER CARDS & SUPPLIES threat of martyrdom — and even extinc- consisting of multiple generations of 203-752-4214 COLUMBIA INQUIRIES tion — due to persecution today, evange- brother Knights (see page 18). Such fam- 203-752-4398 lization within the family takes on ilies build a legacy of faith that extends FAX heightened urgency. Nonetheless, in the far beyond their shared fraternity.♦ 203-752-4109 K OF C CUSTOMER SERVICE Western world, the duty of Christian par- 1-800-380-9995 ents to practice their faith and witness to ALTON J. PELOWSKI E-MAIL their children is no less serious. As faith is EDITOR [email protected] INTERNET kofc.org/columbia

______by Catherine Shim Soon-hwa (2011) / photo courtesy of the Danggogae Martyrs’ Shrine CIS Resource: Saint Benedict for Busy Parents Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to men 18 years of age or older who are practical (that is, practicing) Saint Benedict for Busy Parents (#327) by Father Dwight Lon- Catholics in union with the Holy See. This means that an applicant or member accepts the teaching authority of the genecker explains how the practical principles of St. Benedict Catholic Church on matters of faith and morals, aspires to of Nursia, the father of Western monasticism, can help busy live in accord with the precepts of the Catholic Church, and is in good standing in the Catholic Church. parents integrate spirituality and ordinary life. Part of the ______Catholic Information Service’s Building the Domestic Church Copyright © 2017 All rights reserved Series, the booklet shows how St. Benedict’s famous Rule offers ______

a framework for balancing prayer and everyday work. To Holy Mother of Danggogae Martyrs’ Shrine ON THE COVER download or order this resource, visit kofc.org/cis.♦ A painting in Seoul depicts the Virgin Mary with the

Christ Child and a young girl representing all who COVER: turn to her in time of need.

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BUILDINGABETTERWORLD

A Pilgrimage to Korea Our Order’s presence in Korea has given the Knights an extraordinary opportunity to serve the Church

by Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson

IN APRIL, Dorian and I spent Holy We also met with the Mayor of Week in South Korea visiting brother Seoul, Mr. Park Won-soon, who out- Knights and their families. Supreme lined his work to encourage greater Master Dennis Stoddard and his wife, philanthropy and charity throughout Linda, and other K of C representa- the city. He invited our local councils tives accompanied us. The visit coin- to be part of these efforts. their families make each day as they cided with the Holy Week pastoral Leaders of the recently established St. maintain a constant state of readiness. visit of Auxiliary Bishop F. Richard Andrew Kim Taegon Council 16000 During our entire time in Korea, we Spencer of the Archdiocese for the and St. Paul Chong Hasang Council were — like them — within range of Military Services, U.S.A., to various 16178 gave updates on their progress, North Korean artillery and missiles. military bases in Korea. and we discussed their initiative to assist On Good Friday morning, we were Our pilgrimage began as we prayed some of the thousands of children who especially moved during our visit to with Korean Catholics during Palm escaped with their families from North the Danggogae Martyrs’ Shrine in Sunday Mass at the Myeong-dong Korea and now live in Seoul. These Seoul, at the place where nine saints Cathedral in Seoul for the and one blessed were mar- peaceful reunification of their tyred during the persecution country. We concluded by In many ways, the growth of Catholics in 1839. Because joining Bishop Spencer and three of the martyrs were praying with U.S. armed serv- and service of the Knights mothers with young children, ices personnel and their fami- it is also known in Korea as lies during the Good Friday in Korea has been a response the Mothers’ Shrine. St. liturgy at the Yongsan Garri- to the Holy Father’s call. Magdalena Son So-byok, for son chapel. example, was martyred with We returned to the United the eldest of her 11 children, States on Holy Saturday, just hours be- children confront extraordinary chal- St. Barbara Choe Yong-i. It is also the fore Vice President Pence departed to lenges as they begin a new life in South place of martyrdom of Blessed Mary South Korea. Korea. One indicator is hard to believe: Yi Seong-rye, the mother of Father During the pilgrimage, we met with A report recently stated that by age 7, Thomas Choe Yang-eop, for whom Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung, North Korean children are on average our latest council in Korea, Council archbishop of Seoul, who had warmly 8 inches shorter and weigh 22 pounds 16685 in Wonju, is named. welcomed us during our previous visit less than children growing up in South I presented the charter to Council to the city. On this occasion, we dis- Korea. I am tremendously proud that 16685, as well as to Father Herman G. cussed with him the challenges con- some of our newest brother Knights are Felhoelter Council 16678 at Camp fronting the Church in Seoul, which seeking ways to help these children Walker in Daegu, earlier in the week. is one of fastest-growing Catholic dio- build a new life. Pope Francis has urged Catholics to ceses in the world, and how the We also traveled to the Korean De- go out to the peripheries with the Knights of Columbus could assist him militarized Zone. As we stood just feet Good News of the Gospel and with in his pastoral mission. Bishop Francis away from an active mine field and works of charity. In many ways, the Xavier Yu Soo-il, who is head of the looked through binoculars at military growth and service of the Knights of Military Ordinariate of Korea and a and other installations in North Columbus in Korea has been a re- Fourth Degree Knight, joined this Korea, we could better appreciate the sponse to the Holy Father’s call. meeting as well. sacrifices that our active military and Vivat Jesus!

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LEARNING THE FAITH, LIVING THE FAITH

Come, Let Us Adore Him The feast of Corpus Christi invites us to worship Christ in the Eucharist and bring his presence to the world

by Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori

WHEN I WAS about 10 years old, I choice or a lofty idea but the encounter was very proud and happy to begin with an event, a person, which gives serving at holy Mass, but I was also life a new horizon and a decisive direc- nervous that I would make some tion” (Deus Caritas Est, 1). Kneeling pretty serious mistakes. I got over that before the Blessed Sacrament so long and consoling truth. The Lord Jesus, nervousness and, if I may say so, be- ago, I could not have said it so elo- the Son of God who became one of came a seasoned altar server. I memo- quently, but that’s what happened to us, preached the Good News, died rized my responses to the Latin me. I didn’t have many lofty ideas or and rose to save us, and is now exalted prayers and continually tried to im- thoughts on ethics, but I did truly en- at the Father’s right hand, remains prove my pronunciation. I learned the counter the Lord. I realized that he with us in this sacrament. By the in- best techniques for lighting the high loved me, and that made all the differ- vocation of the Holy Spirit and the altar candles, for handling the incense, ence. This is why I strive, in spite of words of consecration uttered by the and so forth. And to this day, priest, bread and wine are com- celebrating the liturgy correctly pletely changed into the Body and reverently remains one of Once we have welcomed the and Blood of Christ. Although the greatest priorities and joys the appearances of bread and of my life. eucharistic Lord into the wine remain after the consecra- At one point, my home tion, they are no longer such parish had its annual 40 Hours depths of our hearts, but rather the living personal devotion. Parishioners were in- nothing remains the same. Presence of Christ, crucified, vited to come and spend time risen and exalted. We call this in adoration of the Blessed miracle that takes place on our Sacrament, which was placed in a all my faults and failings, to be a fol- altars “transubstantiation.” This is monstrance on the altar. As one of the lower of Christ and a member of how Jesus becomes our spiritual food altar servers, I was expected to take a Christ’s Body, the Church. This is why and drink so as to nourish our souls. turn kneeling in the sanctuary for I am a priest. about an hour. An hour can seem like In this month of June, the Church JESUS AWAITS an awfully long time to a boy of 12, celebrates the Solemnity of the Most Even after Mass has ended, Jesus re- and I was no exception. But something Holy Body and Blood of Christ. This mains with us in the tabernacles of happened during that hour. What my great feast, also known as Corpus our churches. For this reason, the parents and teachers had taught me Christi, is an invitation for us to en- Church lovingly invites us not only to about the Eucharist began to sink in. I counter the Lord more deeply in the attend Mass but also to take part in realized that I really was in the presence Eucharist. It is also a grace-filled op- Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament of Jesus and that he loved me. It was as portunity for us to renew our under- and to take time to pray before the simple as that. It was a watershed mo- standing and love of this sacrament, Eucharist reserved in the tabernacle. ment in my young life. for it is the most powerful and effec- As St. John Paul II once wrote, tive way to enter into the presence of “The Church and the world have AN ENCOUNTER WITH CHRIST Jesus and encounter his love for us. great need for eucharistic worship. Pope Benedict XVI wrote, “Being At the heart of the Church’s teach- Jesus awaits us in this sacrament of Christian is not the result of an ethical ing on the Eucharist is a wonderful love. Let us not refuse the time to go

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LEARNING THE FAITH, LIVING THE FAITH

and meet him in adoration, in con- with the Lord. United deeply to beauty of the Gospel? How many vo- templation full of faith, and open to Christ our life, we commit ourselves cations to the priesthood and reli- making amends for the serious crimes to the Church’s mission of spreading gious life will be fostered? How many of the world. Let our adoration never the Gospel. We see the Church not sinners will be converted? How many cease” (cf. Catechism of the Catholic merely as an institution but as the sins atoned for? How many bodies Church, 1380). Body of Christ, of which we are liv- and souls healed of physical and spir- Once we have welcomed the eu- ing members. We want everyone to itual infirmities? How many luke- charistic Lord into the depths of our know Jesus and to welcome him into warm Christians converted into hearts, nothing remains the same. their hearts. We want the Church to ardent followers of Christ? Christianity becomes not a sideline be strong and unified so that others As the family of the Knights of but a way of life. What we say and may believe. Columbus, let us find in the Most what we do, the choices we make, the Who knows what graces will be Holy Sacrament of the Altar the way we treat others — most especially ours as we unite in prayer before Jesus source and summit of our charity, the poor and the troubled — all are in the Eucharist? How many hearts unity and fraternity. Let us take the shaped by our repeated encounters will be touched with the truth and feast of Corpus Christi to heart.♦

HOLY FATHER’S CATHOLICMANOFTHEMONTH PRAYER INTENTION St. José de Anchieta Offered in (1534-1597) Solidarity with Pope Francis JOSÉ DE ANCHIETA was born March 19, 1534, on Tenerife, the NATIONAL LEADERS: That largest of Spain’s Canary Islands. The national leaders may firmly com- third of 10 children, he was part of a mit themselves to ending the arms noble family related to St. Ignatius of trade, which victimizes so many Loyola. At age 14, Anchieta entered innocent people. the University of Coimbra in Portu- gal. During his studies, he read the letters of St. Francis Xavier, which were circulating throughout Europe. At age 17, Anchieta made a private vow of celibacy and service to the traveled widely on foot, strenuously Church. He entered the Jesuit order, working to eradicate cannibalism, and during his novitiate contracted an polygamy and sorcery while defend- ailment that curved his spine and left ing the Indians from colonial abuses. him in constant pain. His superiors Using poetry and drama to evangelize, sent Anchieta to the missions of Brazil he wrote catechetical plays that were in 1553, believing that the change in performed in Tupi and Portuguese. climate would improve his health. Father Anchieta also served as Jesuit The following year, Anchieta provincial of Brazil from 1577 to 1587. helped to found the mission that Throughout his ministry, he gained would become the city of São Paulo. such a reputation for reconciliation, He taught Latin at a new Jesuit col- healing and holiness that he was called lege and evangelized the local Tupi In- a miracle worker. He is credited with dians. Soon fluent in their language, baptizing more then 1 million people. he authored and published the first After Father Anchieta’s death in Tupi grammar and dictionary. Reritiba, on June 9, 1597, the bishop Anchieta co-founded the city of Rio of Bahia dubbed him “the Apostle of de Janeiro in 1565 and was ordained Brazil.” Pope Francis canonized An- a priest a year later. Father Anchieta chieta in April 2014.♦ POPE FRANCIS: CNS photo/Paul Haring — ST. JOSÉ DE ANCHIETA: Image courtesy of the Jesuit Curia, Rome

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KNIGHTSOFCOLUMBUSNEWS Supreme Knight Meets With Knights, Leaders in South Korea

Korean members of the Fourth Degree join Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson, Supreme Master Dennis J. Stoddard (far left) and Col. Charles H. Gallina, advisor of K of C military and veterans affairs (far right), following an exemplification in the base chapel of U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan on Palm Sunday, April 9.

SUPREME KNIGHT Carl A. An- Osan Air Base, several military chap- support the members, families and derson and Supreme Master Dennis J. lains expressed their gratitude for the veterans of the U.S military. Stoddard, together with their wives Order’s Armed With the Faith prayer A Fourth Degree exemplification, and other K of C representatives, book, which is distributed to military with several charter members of spent Holy Week in South Korea members on active duty. Council 16000 participating, took April 9-14. Coinciding with the 10th In remarks to Korean K of C lead- place in the base chapel of U.S. Army anniversary of the first K of C council ers April 12, Supreme Knight Ander- Garrison Yongsan at the beginning of in Korea, the week included meetings son thanked them for being the week. with church, military and civic lead- “pioneers” in bringing the Order to The exemplification was followed ers, visits with military and civilian “the most important Catholic coun- by a fraternal banquet, during which Knights, and the presentation of char- try on the mainland of Asia.” Empha- the supreme knight presented the ters to two new councils. sizing the mission of the Knights to charter for Father Thomas Choe Received April 10 by Cardinal An- strengthen the Church, the supreme Yang-eop Council 16685 in Wonju. drew Yeom Soo-jung, archbishop of knight said, “We are not planting There are now a total of six councils Seoul, the supreme knight expressed wheat that will just come up quickly; on the Korean peninsula — three on gratitude for the cardinal’s support of we are planting a forest of trees U.S. military bases and three domes- the Order in Korea and discussed ways which, over time, will grow and make tic councils with Korean members. that members could be of service to a huge difference.” In remarks during the Fourth De- the Church. Bishop Francis Xavier Yu The next day, the supreme knight gree banquet April 9, the supreme Soo-il, head of the Military Ordinari- met the mayor of Seoul, Park Won- knight commended the services of ate of Korea and a Fourth Degree soon, and members of St. Andrew military personnel and chaplains, em- Knight, also took part in the discus- Kim Taegon Council 16000. Named phasized the Order’s mission to sions, together with Bishop Richard for the first Korean-born priest and strengthen Catholic family life, and Spencer of the Archdiocese for the martyr, Council 16000 was chartered reflected on the Church in Korea. Military Services, USA. in 2015 as Korea’s first domestic coun- The challenge facing the Church in On April 11, the supreme knight cil and the first council to be insti- Korea today “is to find ways of charity, presented a charter to Father Her- tuted on mainland Asia outside of a unity and brotherhood that can be the man G. Felhoelter Council 16678 at U.S. military base. cause of reconciliation,” he said. “It is the U.S. Army Garrison in Daegu, On April 14, the supreme knight my profound hope that by working named after the first U.S. chaplain met with Maj. Gen. Michael A. Bills together the Knights of Columbus killed during the Korean War. The at the U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan will help the Catholic Church in following day, during a visit to the and discussed the Order’s efforts to Korea to fulfill its great mission.”♦ Photo by Stephen Feiler

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KNIGHTSOFCOLUMBUSNEWS Order Provides Easter Food Baskets to Displaced Iraqi Families

NEARLY 12,000 displaced Iraqi Christian families re- they have received from the very beginning of this crisis, ceived an Easter gift this year when food packages donated they know that when they see the emblem of the Knights, by the Knights of Columbus were distributed throughout something of Christian decency and trust is there for the Christian shelter areas of northern Iraq April 1-11. them,” he said. “Whether it is a holiday food package For almost three years, Iraqi Christian families have been such as for this Easter, or a medical clinic, or housing, the living as refugees in their own country — from the main Knights have become a name that the Christians of Iraq Christian enclave of Ankawa, just outside the Kurdish cap- now know and trust.” ital of Erbil, to camps for displaced Father Salar Kajo, vicar general of Christians in Alqosh, Dohuk and the Diocese of Alqosh, where many Zakho, near the Turkish border. of the Easter packages were distrib- These families received a sign of uted, echoed the words of Arch- Christian solidarity in the form of bishop Warda. basic foods and special items for the “The people have been forced holiday, including Easter eggs for the from their homes for almost three children. years now,” he said. “Believe me, For 10 days beginning April 1, they know the people who have volunteers from the displaced com- stood with them during this time. munity, priests and lay leaders con- When they see the sign of the tributed to the effort. Knights they are thinking, ‘These The distribution of the packages are our Catholic brothers from was made possible by the Knights of around the world, who are with us.’” Columbus Christian Refugee Relief Standing on a hill overlooking the Fund and the Order’s ongoing part- recently liberated Christian town of nership with the Chaldean Catholic Teleskov, where more than 400 Archdiocese of Erbil, led by Arch- Christian families are beginning to bishop Bashar Matti Warda. return, Father Kajo reflected, “We have people right now “Providing these Easter packages is just one more exam- returning to these homes just in time for Easter — the ple of how the Knights continue to show the persecuted first Easter Masses in this town in years. The only reason Christians of Iraq that they are not alone,” said Arch- we still are here is because of people like the Knights, who bishop Warda. helped us, who supported us, during this time. Maybe the The emblem of the Order, the archbishop added, is be- people in the U.S.A. and other places cannot really under- coming well known to the Christians of Iraq as a sign of stand this, but we could have already disappeared here. Christian charity and solidarity. We all thank God for the Knights, I can tell you that.” “Three years ago, none of these people knew who the To donate to the Knights of Columbus Christian Knights were. Now, because of the constant support that Refugee Relief Fund, visit christiansatrisk.org.♦

Knights Walk for Life in the Philippines Knights and their families participate in a Walk for Life event in Quezon City, Philippines, March 18. Supreme Director Jose C. Reyes Jr. spoke at the rally before the walk. Former Supreme Di- rector Alonso L. Tan was also present, together with members of councils from Metro Manila and the Luzon North jurisdiction. Knights and their families from throughout the Philippines joined thousands at Walk for Life rallies in February and March. Their presence gave witness to the large number of people across the nation willing to stand up for the dignity of all human life. The walks and rallies for life held particular weight this year, taking place soon after the Philippines House of Representatives voted to rein- state the death penalty.♦ TOP: Photo by Stivan Shany/Courtesy of the Archdiocese of Erbil — BOTTOM: Photo by Roy Lagarde

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Calling for Peace in Egypt

Pope Francis addresses persecuted Christians and government leaders during his apostolic journey to Egypt

by John L. Allen Jr.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following article was adapted from cov- he also didn’t want to embarrass his hosts in the Egyptian erage previously published on Crux, a Catholic news and government. commentary website operated in partnership with the Knights However, it turned out that Francis decided to be fairly of Columbus. blunt, and the day of his arrival seemed to capture the pope in a “put it all on the line” mood. eading into his two-day trip to Egypt, it was unclear ex- Hactly how direct Pope Francis might be about the threats CHRISTIANS: INTEGRAL TO EGYPT faced by the local Christian community. On Friday, April 28, in an address to political and civil au- The pontiff came to Egypt April 28-29, after all, to build thorities in the world’s sixth most populous Muslim nation, bridges of friendship with the Muslim establishment, and Francis made an unmistakable reference to the gap between

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CNS photo/Paul Haring churches, both last December and more recently in Tanta in recently more and December last both churches, Defense. of by Ministry Egypt’s directly Al administered and the owned at is which crowd Hotel, the Masah told Francis greatly,” so suffered have and Alexandria,” Francis said. “To the members of their fam- their of “To members the said. Francis Alexandria,” and who to persons these who and have welcome assistance offered those all to and authorities religious and civil the to gratitude my express I Sinai. northern from Christians of exodus an to said. pope the extremism,” terrorist of forms various of victims nameless those all and citizens tic Cop- country: police, and forces your armed the of members protect people, young to lives their given have years recent population. national the of percent 20 and 10 between somewhere represents which minority, tian of to Egypt’sfate the it comes when reality and Chris- rhetoric Christians. Coptic 29 killed that militant State Islamic an by bombing 2016 December a of site the was complex, Cathedral Coptic Mark’s St. the of part 28. church, The April Cairo in Paul’s Church St. and Peter St. at leaders religious of other and head churches, Orthodox spiritual Eastern the Bartholomew, Patriarch Ecumenical Pope II, Tawadros Orthodox Coptic with service prayer ecumenical an attends FrancisPope ilies, and to all of Egypt, I offer my heartfelt condolences heartfelt my offer I Egypt, of all to and ilies, and my prayers that the Lord will grant speedy healing to healing speedy grant will Lord the that prayers my and the injured.” the I lo hn o te itm o te tak o Coptic on attacks the of victims the of think also “I “I think also of the murders and the threats that have led have that threats the and murders the of also think “I in who individuals those all of way particular a in think “I of the centuries you have developed a sort of unique rapport, unique of sort a developed have you centuries the of course the over and country, this of part integral an are You of Egypt. of the history part and an inseparable tal but ancient Christian Protestant and Egypt. of Armenian churches Byzantine, Coptic, the Greek, recognizing arm, the in shot a community tian tenser. becoming and mixed is ground the on reality the say generally Christians freedom, religious for opportunities guarantees ostensibly Constitution the Egyptian and although and beginning, very the from Egypt in foothold a had has tianity positions Chris- While life. political and finding employment in advancement in ficulties dif- including harassment, and oppression low-level of plain Alexandria. in Cathedral Mark’s Coptic St. Tantaand in Church Coptic George St. at people 47 least at killed that bombings Sunday) (Palm 9 April two the to than well as more dead, left dozen that 2016, 11, Dec. complex cathedral “Your presence in this, your country, is not new or acciden- or new not is country, your this, in “Your presence Chris- the deliver to sought Francis Pope context, that In com- routinely Egypt in Copts fashion, spectacular less In Coptic main Cairo’s at attack bomb a to referring was He 7 1 0 2 E N U J ♦ A I B M U L O C ♦ 9 JUN 17 E 5_15 FINAL.qxp_Mar E 12 5/15/17 4:10 PM Page 10

Pope Francis delivers a speech at a conference on international peace hosted by Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb, grand imam of Al-Azhar University (seated at center on stage), in Cairo April 28.

a particular symbiosis, which can serve as an example to other which stirred a firestorm of protest. nations,” he said, drawing strong applause. Francis avoided the incendiary quotation but nevertheless Francis also suggested the country’s Christians have an ec- delivered a clear call to religious leaders — which, in the umenical vocation. Egyptian context, unmistakably means Islam — to reject vi- “You have shown, and continue to show, that it is possible to olence in the name of God. live together in mutual respect and fairness, finding in difference “Let us say once more a firm and clear ‘No!’ to every form a source of richness and never a motive of conflict,” he said. of violence, vengeance and hatred carried out in the name of religion or the name of God,” he said. “Together let us affirm A ‘REGENSBURG SPEECH’ the incompatibility of violence and faith, belief and hatred.” Earlier that same day, the pope gave a powerful address at an Addressing a nation gripped by a rising tide of Islamic ex- international conference on peace hosted by Cairo’s Al-Azhar tremism, and one in which the Muslim Brotherhood move- mosque and university, widely considered the most prestigious ment led a government as recently as 2013, Francis insisted center of learning in the Sunni Muslim world. that it’s urgent to “unmask the violence that masquerades as In effect, what Francis delivered was almost his version of purported sanctity.” Pope Benedict XVI’s celebrated, and controversial, 2006 “We have an obligation to denounce violations of human speech in Regensburg, Germany. In arguing that spreading dignity and human rights, to expose attempts to justify every faith through violence is contrary to reason, Benedict quoted form of hatred in the name of religion, and to condemn these a line that linked the Prophet Mohammed with violence, attempts as idolatrous caricatures of God,” he said. AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia

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“No act of violence can be perpetrated in the name of God,” and politics — what Americans might call the separation of he said, “for it would profane his name” and is “the negation church and state. of every authentic religious expression.” “The religious and political spheres are confused and not Several observers compared the atmosphere at Al-Azhar to properly distinguished,” he said. “Religion risks being absorbed the interreligious gatherings launched by St. John Paul II in As- into the administration of temporal affairs and tempted by the sisi, Italy, in 1986, with imams and shamans, rabbis and Chris- allure of worldly powers which, in fact, exploit it.” tian bishops, all gathered together in a show of common cause. Francis knows that while the Egyptian Constitution theo- TRUE FAITH AND CHARITY retically protects religious freedom, and while President Abdel On Saturday, April 29, Pope Francis continued his campaign Fattah al-Sisi came to power in 2014 vowing to protect Chris- to promote tolerance and pluralism in a land, and a region, tians and other religious minorities, in reality life is increas- which is frequently scarred by religious violence and extrem- ingly precarious for Christians in this overwhelmingly Sunni ism, telling Egyptians that “the only fanaticism believers can Muslim society. have is that of charity! In that context, Francis didn’t appear to pull any punches “Any other fanaticism does not come from God and is not in his advocacy for religious freedom and human rights. pleasing to him!” Francis insisted in his homily during Mass “Recognizing rights and basic freedoms, particularly reli- in a downtown Cairo stadium. gious freedom, represents the best way to build the future to- “True faith is one that makes us more charitable, more mer- gether, to be builders of civility,” he said. ciful, more honest and more humane,” the pope said. “It He also called for making a clear distinction between religion moves our hearts to love everyone without counting the cost,

POPE, COPTIC PATRIARCH HONOR EGYPTIAN MARTYRS

Pope Francis lights a candle during his April 28 visit with Coptic Pope Tawadros II at St. Peter and St. Paul Church in Cairo, which was tar- geted by a suicide bomb attack that killed 29 peo- ple last December.

the photos of the martyrs. Pope Francis leaned low to touch the blood-stained wall and made the sign of the cross. In his speech to Pope Tawadros and other Coptic Orthodox leaders, Pope Francis asked, “How many martyrs in this land, from the first centuries of Christi- anity, have lived their faith heroically to the end? “The innocent blood of defenseless Christians was cruelly shed,” the pope added. “Your sufferings are also our POPE FRANCIS met with Pope Islamic State militant Dec. 11, 2016. sufferings.” Tawadros II, the head of the Coptic Or- Inside the small church, the leaders of He concluded by encouraging thodox Church, at the close of the first several other Christian communities in Catholics and Orthodox to work hard to day of the Roman pontiff’s visit to Egypt Egypt, as well as Ecumenical Patriarch “oppose violence by preaching and sow- April 28. After exchanging greetings at the Bartholomew of Constantinople, sat be- ing goodness, fostering concord and pre- Coptic-Orthodox Patriarchate of Cairo, fore the congregation, which included serving unity, praying that all these the two religious leaders walked together family members of the victims. sacrifices may open the way to a future to the nearby Church of St. Peter and St. Led by Pope Francis, they went to the of full communion between us and peace Paul, where 29 Coptic Christians died back of the church, where each lit a small for all.” — Reported by Carol Glatz, and 31 were wounded in a bombing by an candle and placed white flowers beneath Catholic News Service Andreas Solaro/AFP/Getty Images

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without distinction and without preference. It makes us see be afraid to love everyone, friends and enemies alike, because the other not as an enemy to be overcome but a brother or the strength and treasure of the believer lies in a life of love!” sister to be loved, served and helped.” Francis insisted that authentic religious faith should never The very setting of the day’s liturgy, however, offered a re- be a motive for conflict. minder of how far the reality in contemporary Egypt often “True faith leads us to protect the rights of others with the lies from the pontiff’s pacific vision. Technically called the same zeal and enthusiasm with which we defend our own,” “Air Defense Stadium,” the 30,000-capacity venue is owned he said. “Indeed, the more we grow in faith and knowledge, and operated by the Egyptian military, and both uniformed the more we grow in humility and in the awareness of our and plain-clothed police were stationed every yard along Fran- littleness.” cis’ motorcade route. Others stood guard, some on rooftops, Although the pope was speaking in the context of a Catholic wearing covers over their faces. Mass, his words likely will be widely heard across Egypt as ad- In this context, Pope Francis’ homily appealed to Egyptians dressed to everyone. In this overwhelming Muslim society, such to harness the power of God to convert seemingly hopeless public expressions of Christian identity are fairly rare, and situations into moments of grace. many Christians described the Mass as a moment of pride.♦ “Do not be afraid to open your hearts to the light of the Risen Lord, and let him transform your uncertainty into a JOHN L. ALLEN JR. is the editor of Crux, specializing in cov- positive force for yourselves and for others,” he said. “Do not erage of the Vatican and the Catholic Church. Visit cruxnow.com

ORDER PROVIDES AID AFTER PALM SUNDAY BOMBINGS

FOLLOWING THE bombing of two Coptic Christian churches that killed at least 47 people and wounded more than 100 in Egypt on Palm Sunday, April 9, the Supreme Council donated $100,000 to support relief efforts. Carried out by Islamic State militants, the first attack occurred at St. George Coptic Church in the Nile Delta city of Tanta, some 60 miles north of Cairo. The second explosion was outside St. Mark’s Cathedral in Alexandria, where Coptic Pope Tawadros II, patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church, had just celebrated a Palm Sunday liturgy. On the day of attacks, Coptic Ortho- dox Bishop Anba Angaelos of the United Kingdom issued a statement lamenting the “senseless and heartless Mourners carry coffins during a funeral procession at the Monastery of Marmina in the city of Borg El brutality that can lead a person or peo- Arab April 10, the day after an attack at St. Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in nearby Alexandria. ple to indiscriminately take innocent lives, especially at the most vulnerable hour of prayer.” measure his triumph over death,” the Knights of Columbus and … for our Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson, supreme knight said. ongoing relationship.” who was in Korea at the time of the The Palm Sunday bombings followed Noting that he worked closely with bombings, later wrote to Bishop An- a similar attack Dec. 11, 2016, when an the Knights of Columbus during the gaelos to offer condolences and express ISIS suicide bomber killed 29 people at 2016 campaign to highlight the geno- solidarity. St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church in Cairo. cide of Christians in the Middle East, “As your people’s sacrifice pro- Following a $75,000 donation by the the bishop added, “We know that there foundly united them to Christ’s pas- Supreme Council to help aid families of is much that can be achieved when we sion this Holy Week, it is my sincere victims, Bishop Angaelos wrote a letter stand together to witness for those per- prayer that they also share in equal of gratitude “for the generosity of the secuted around the world.”♦ Photo by Mohamed El-Shahed/AFP/Getty Images

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FATHERS FOR GOOD Faith and Science: Seeking One Truth

Our children need to learn that the wonders of the Catholic faith and of the created world go hand in hand

by Todd H. Ahern or much of my life, I thought an educated person had At best, they saw religion as a byproduct of random evo- Fto make a choice between religion and science, faith lution; at worst, as a cultural virus. Unaware of how much and reason. Surveys show I was not alone. Many scientists the development of science owed to Catholic thought, I describe themselves as atheists or agnostics, and many made the false choice of science over faith. young people turn away from religion because they are Eventually, I earned a doctorate in social neuroscience, taught that science is incompatible with belief in God. exploring the biological basis of attachment, social bond- Today, as a committed Catholic and a tenured professor ing and the interplay between family dynamics and biol- with a Ph.D. in neuroscience, I want to assure my fellow ogy, including the upbringing of the next generation. I fathers that faith and science are not opposed. We can learned much about the influence of genetics and neuro- teach our children to seek the truth in both. chemical reactions, but the hard science could offer no The popular perception that the Catholic Church is model for heroic virtue or help me understand the mys- anti-science is simply untrue. tery of God’s grace. It provided Yes, there are examples of con- no guidance for how I should flict; Galileo likely comes to love my wife or for the self-sac- mind. But such incidents are rifice needed to raise my chil- rare, oversimplified and do not dren well. accurately represent how impor- Inspired by my wife’s philo- tant the Church has been in the sophical training and Catholic development of science. faith, I came to see that Jesus The physicist who first pro- Christ and his Church offer in- posed the “Big Bang” theory in sights into reality and the 1927 was Georges Lemaître, a human person beyond what Catholic priest. Nicolas Steno, a physical science can provide. 17th-century bishop, helped es- While the Catholic Church tablish modern geology and pa- has made invaluable contribu- leontology. Gregor Mendel, a tions to nearly every scientific 19th-century Augustinian friar, discipline, it also widens our is the father of modern genetics. view by proclaiming God’s rev- The list of priest-scientists is very long. elation — truths that go beyond reason but are not con- Spend some time with your kids looking up how many trary to it. We are not simply a sum of our genes or craters on the moon are named for Jesuit astronomers. For walking, talking machines. In his sacred humanity, centuries, the Vatican has run a respected observatory, and Christ “reveals man to himself” and calls us to our true devoted Catholics continue to contribute to the sciences. identity as sons and daughters of a loving Father (cf. If we do not teach our kids about faith and science, a Gaudium et Spes, 22). false dichotomy will damage our culture and the next gen- So, dads, here’s a piece of Father’s Day advice: Encour- eration. My own experience may offer some insight. Like age your kids to explore the created world, and encourage many children, I loved books about animals, dinosaurs, them to explore the deep truths of our faith. They will be the sea and astronomy. I saw the world as a treasure trove better for it, and so will we.♦ to be discovered, unpacked and catalogued. But during high school, I devoured popular science TODD H. AHERN is an associate professor in the behav- books by Carl Sagan, Stephen Hawking and others. These ioral neuroscience program and psychology department at remarkable scientists offered great insights into the phys- Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Conn., and a member ical world, but they also promoted scientism, a reductive of Father Michael J. McGivney Council 10705 in New understanding of the world that excludes God or religion. Haven. He and his wife, Erika, have five children.

FIND ADDITIONAL ARTICLES AND RESOURCES FOR CATHOLIC MEN AND THEIR FAMILIES AT FATHERSFORGOOD.ORG. Thinkstock

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Korea’s Martyred Mothers

Seoul’s ‘Mothers’ Shrine’ celebrates the faith of women killed in one of Korea’s great persecutions

by Alex Jensen

ou wicked people! Die if you want to, but why make cated Koreans returned from China with knowledge of Christ “Ythese children die with you?” Crowds berated Mary and his Church. Yi Seong-rye and her family as they were brought to the To the surprise of Joseon’s ruling class, Catholicism began Great South Gate of Seoul on a sweltering day in 1839. The to spread, and many believers were prepared to sacrifice their city, then known as Hanyang, was the focal point of the lives with unimaginable courage. The faithful were not just Joseon Kingdom, which encompassed modern North and executed but also tortured by methods that would take them South Korea. to the brink of death. Instant relief was offered to anyone who Due to their perceived threat to local Confucian values, as simply renounced their faith. many as 10,000 of the kingdom’s Catholics were killed for Two of the sainted Danggogae martyrs are Magdalena Son their faith during five main waves of persecution over the So-byok and her elder daughter, Barbara Choe Yong-i. Like course of a century. thousands of other Joseon Catholics, Mary was among a group of 10 pris- they had been forced to go into hiding oners executed over two days at Dang- and were eventually captured. gogae — now in Seoul’s busy Yongsan When Magdalena was brought be- district — during the infamous 1839- fore a magistrate, the official urged her HE WITNESS OF THE 1840 Gihae Persecution. Nine of the “T to “say one word that shows you have Danggogae martyrs were among the KOREAN MARTYRS IS A given up this teaching.” She was prom- 103 saints canonized by Pope John ised freedom, and her family would be Paul II when he visited South Korea in SOURCE OF SPIRITUAL allowed to live. This 39-year-old 1984. Mary’s case was different, but a woman had already lost nine children journey to apostasy and back led to her STRENGTH FOR THE in infancy. One can imagine how she eventual beatification by Pope Francis must have been desperate for the well- UNIVERSAL CHURCH.” in 2014. being of her two living daughters, a 2- Today, Danggogae Martyrs’ Shrine year-old and 22-year-old Barbara, who is like a hidden fortress within Seoul’s herself had a newborn son. dense center, between rows of electron- Jailed together, Magdalena and Bar- ics stores and high-rise apartments. The shrine’s walls encircle bara made the heart-wrenching decision to send their infants a grassy plateau, below which stand a church and museum away to relatives rather than have them endure a filthy im- dedicated to the 10 holy Koreans martyred there. prisonment without sunlight or adequate food. The women Danggogae is often referred to as the “Mothers’ Shrine” be- were caned more than 260 times and subjected to the dreaded cause three of the six women who died for their faith there churae torture: having their feet and knees tied tightly while had young children. Their luminous example remains a pow- their shinbones were pulled apart with sticks or ropes. erful source of inspiration for more than 5.6 million contem- After all this, the mother and daughter still refused to apo- porary Catholics in South Korea — including members of the statize or give up fellow Catholics. Knights of Columbus, as the Order begins to take root there. “I would rather die than betray the Lord,” Barbara told officials.

DEATH RATHER THAN BETRAYAL The Gihae Persecution came just 55 years after the first Joseon A painting at the Danggogae Martyrs’ Shrine in Seoul depicts Blessed citizen was baptized in 1784. Despite the kingdom’s political Mary Yi Seong-rye, one of the martyrs beheaded at the site during the isolationism, Catholicism was kindled in Joseon after edu- Gihae Persecution of 1839-40. Photo by Stephen Feiler

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A statue outside of the Danggogae Martyrs’ Shrine depicts the Blessed Virgin Mary holding the child Jesus, with a second child representing those seeking her intercession.

Magdalena, bloody from scourging, would not be moved the couple had also established a village south of Hanyang, either. “If God did not give me help, with my own strength I where more than 20 families lived out their faith in isolation. would not be able to endure even the bedbugs or fleas which It was there one night in late summer that police arrived from burrow into my flesh and eat it. Only God can give the the capital to arrest them. Remarkably, the imperiled husband strength to endure pain,” she insisted. and wife welcomed the officers with food and hospitality. Magdalena’s husband was beheaded Dec. 29, 1839, at the They were soon brought to the Great South Gate, where Small West Gate, a notorious passageway where the heads of they were taunted by the crowds, hauled before investigators condemned prisoners were displayed. and taken to prison. Mary’s husband, later recognized as St. The killing grounds were then moved to the traditional Francis Choe Kyeong-hwan, succumbed to injuries inflicted Buddhist temple site of Danggogae in order to appease mer- by torture within a few weeks of their capture. Mary had been chants who were concerned about sales for an end-of-year fair. separated from her spouse and children except for her 2-year- Official records show that Magdalena was executed at old son, Stephen. She withstood beatings that left her arms Danggogae by the same method as her husband, just over a broken and body covered with gashes. month later on Jan. 31, 1840. Then her seemingly unassailable faith broke. Though she Due to a law preventing two family members from being had many times strengthened others with biblical accounts of executed on the same day, Barbara’s turn came one day after perseverance, Mary was apparently shaken by the sight of her her mother’s. She wrote in a letter: “My parents and husband infant’s life fading away in a foul prison cell. She renounced have all died as martyrs, so how can my mind be peaceful? her faith and was set free — only to regret it immediately. However, when I think of heaven I am greatly consoled and I Mary, who was 39 years old, was soon arrested again when thank God for this grace.” the authorities discovered that her eldest son, Thomas Choe Yang-eop, had gone to the Portuguese colony of Macao, on ONE MOTHER’S REDEMPTION mainland China, to study theology. This time, she arranged The story of Mary Yi Seong-rye is equally awe-inspiring, but for her children to be kept away for fear of being tempted to includes enough human frailty to make it easier to grasp. apostatize again. She retracted her earlier renunciation of faith Mary knew well the dangers faced by Catholics in Joseon, before being tortured and beheaded Jan. 31, 1840, with six having supported her husband as he buried the bodies of mar- other Danggogae martyrs. tyrs earlier during the Gihae Persecution. Still in their 30s, To her surviving relatives, Mary left these ardent instructions:

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Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson presents the charter to Thomas Choe Yang-eop Council 16685 in Wonju following a Fourth Degree exemplification held April 9 in the base chapel of U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan. Thomas Choe, the second native-born priest of Korea, was declared Venerable last year by Pope Francis, and his mother, one of the martyrs of Danggogae, was beatified in 2014.

“Never forget the Lord and Holy Mary, Mother of God. Love and worked selflessly,” Father Pak said. “He would walk for each other, and never separate from each other under any cir- many miles to visit the homes of Korean Catholics, and some- cumstances. Wait until your eldest brother Thomas returns.” times he wouldn’t even sleep so that he could celebrate Mass Thomas Choe Yang-eop returned and became Joseon’s sec- and pray with them.” ond native-born priest when he was ordained in 1849 at age Father Pak added that the faith of Father Thomas’ mother is 28. Known as a “white martyr” because of his sacrifice exemplary because although she denied her faith, she returned through tireless ministry, he died of typhoid fever in 1861. to Jesus and faced martydom. “What Mary went through helped Pope Francis declared him Venerable last year. Thomas become an even stronger priest,” he said. Father Thomas was instrumental in carrying the Gospel to All 10 of the Danggogae martyrs have left a rich example parts of the kingdom inaccessible to foreign missionaries. His to follow in confronting challenges that appear in ways both legacy, and that of his parents, remains keenly felt. Pilgrims new and old — not only the three mothers who gave their continue to flock to his gravesite on a rural hillside that still lives, but also the other souls honored at the shrine: Agatha seems remote today. His poetry urging friends to “search for Yi Kyong-i and Agatha Kwon Chin-i, who were both in their our true home” was penned as Catholicism developed a stable 20s when they were arrested, tortured and executed together; base in his native land. 22-year-old Mary Yi In-dok, who had already fled the op- position of her father before being captured; the brothers SPIRITUAL STRENGTH Peter Hong Pyeong-ju and Paul Hong Yeong-ju, renowned Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson visited Danggogae Mar- for the assistance they gave endangered foreign missionaries; tyrs’ Shrine during his visit to South Korea April 9-15. He the ever gentle Augustine Pak Chong-won; and John Yi also presented the charter to the Order’s latest council in Mun-u, whose path to unbreakable faith began with the South Korea, which is named after Venerable Thomas. early loss of his parents and was tested again by the death of In remarks before presenting the charter to Thomas Choe his wife and two children. Yang-eop Council 16685, based in Wonju, on Palm Sunday, North Korea’s ongoing persecution of Christians is all too April 9, the supreme knight spoke of the nation’s “tradition reminiscent of Joseon’s attitude, while South Korea is beset of witness, dedication, heroism.” by modern obstacles of the kind found throughout the devel- He said that the witness of the martyrs is “a great source of oped world. But Catholics in the South can face them in free- spiritual strength that was made not only for Korea, but for dom thanks to their faith-filled forebears, not least the martyrs the universal Church.” of Danggogae.♦ Council chaplain Father Simon Pak said that members are very proud to be associated with Venerable Thomas. ALEX JENSEN is a broadcast journalist and writer based in “His faith is inspirational for all Catholics and of course for Seoul. A married father of four, he converted to Catholicism the Knights of Columbus because he was very hardworking after moving to South Korea from Great Britain in 2010. Photos by Stephen Feiler

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Generations of Brotherhood

For many Knights, service to the Church and the Order is a family tradition uniting fathers, sons and grandsons

by Matt Hadro

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Photo by Greg Gibson Photography I Form 100, and Jamie and I did our Firstmy Degrees together.”out filled I “So laugh. a with recounted Bob us,” of both Form100, along withcheck a signed bymywife, made outfor extra commitments, Bob thought. schooland join the U.S. Army. He would surely shy away from Jamie to sign, I’ll sign up too.” about joiningtheKnights,Bobrattledoffhisusualexcuses. Neb., Scottsbluff, in 2681 Council P. Malony Timothy ther Ap- cleanup. with hand Fa-of director membership and knight a grand the by proached lend to over gone had Jamie, as Three years later, on Nov. 6, 2003, while serving with the 52nd “Minutes later, they came back and showed me Jamie’s signed Almost 18 at the time, Jamie was ready to graduate from high get you If what. you tell “I’ll said, and paused he then But At his wife’s request, Bob and his youngest son, James, known cake breakfast in 2000, recalled Robert (Bob) Wolf Jr., 61. t began as an impromptu wager about his teenage son at a pan- bers of the Knights of Columbus, dating back to at least 1911. 1911. least at to back dating Columbus, of Knights the of bers the have Hassans mem- been joined generations of Order Five in consecutive 2015. who — William and (left) Patrick uniform), (in Edward Matthew — sons Matt’s of in three Warrenton, home with Va.,together in deputies Virginia,district and Hassan the grand knights past outside sit both right), from (second Matt son, his and (center) Hassan E. William drives and free-throw competitions, joined the Knights shortlyKnightsfree-throwthe competitions,and joineddrives year-old son, Zachary, who has long participated in K of C fund brothers for a cause.” we’re son, and father only we’re not now because more, even searching, and it changed our relationship quite a bit. soul- of lot a did he say could you guess I Knights,the of part relationshipfather.hishisa became with of hesaid when“But Mena, Ark. and past grand knight of Msgr. A.P. Gallagher Council 7258 in their whole families would get involved,” recalled Ron, now 44 could, at age 18. drives, dances and cook-offs. Ron joined the Order as soon as he began spending time after school helping him with K of C fund life as well. After he joined the Order in 1984, his elder son, Ron, is the reason I am still here doing what I do.” usuallyevery day,” he said. “TheLord is my life, and I know he Mass for readings Scripture the read and day every rosary the I joined,” Anderle said. me is that I am certainly a much better Catholic than I was before secretary of the Knights in Arkansas. state the as serves currently Anderle Ark., Nashville, in 16222 impact on his life. Now 64 and a member of St. Martin Council major a had it West(Texas)and joinBrazos 8548, to Council after he became a father himself. He acceptedtime some a 31, friend’s age until Order invitation didn’tthe join Anderle Joseph LeroyKnights,both weregrandfather and father his Although SPIRITUAL RENEWAL nity, honoring the service of those who preceded them. the same: fathers, sons and grandsons united in faith and frater- eachsuccessive generation comesage.of Theresult, however, is decades,asOrder.manytraditionthespans this cases, most In tradition, just as it has with countless other families throughout of Council 2681. members now are family Wolf the in men of generations ing of charitable for support their family by local Knights, four provised explosive device. He was 21. Engineer Battalion near Mosul, Iraq, Jamie was killed by an im- The tradition has continued with Ron’scontinuedwith traditionhas The family.own 22- His relationship our changed it Knight, a became I “And when growingwas I up,didn’t“Whenwe well,”alongtooget Ron “It wasn’t just the men themselves who were volunteering, but Anderle’sKnightstransformedfamilythemembershiphis in pray I “Today,anything. for wouldn’tMassSunday I a miss “The biggest thing that the Knights of Columbus has done for For the Wolfs, membership in the Knights has become a family Inspired by Jamie’s and sacrifice, service and by the outpour- 7 1 0 2 E N U J ♦ A I B M U L O C ♦ 19 JUN 17 E 5_15 FINAL.qxp_Mar E 12 5/15/17 4:12 PM Page 20

after turning 18. He became a Fourth Degree member in January From Matt’s perspective, it is this “unwavering loyalty” of the 2015, making four consecutive generations of Fourth Degree Knights, “first to the faith and also to each other,” that speaks of members in the Anderle family. the Order’s effect in the world. As for Zachary’s great-grandfather, Leroy Victor Anderle, 86, he has been a member of Ketteler Council 1824 in Windthorst, A LEGACY OF SERVICE Texas, since 1949 and a Fourth Degree Knight since 1979. Like the Hassans, the Wolf family received invaluable fraternal support from the Knights when they needed it most. ‘UNWAVERING LOYALTY’ By the time of his son Jamie’s death in 2003, Bob was serving Matthew David (Matt) Hassan, 47, became a fourth-generation as grand knight of Council 2681. “The Knights were some of grand knight in 1992 when he took the helm of the newly char- the first people to the house to help us,” Bob recalled, noting that tered George Mason University Council 10806 in Fairfax, Va., many of his family members live hundreds of miles away. as an undergraduate. Before joining the Army, Jamie became a Third Degree Knight He had taken his First, Second and Third degrees with the with his father and helped with council fund drives and pancake Knights four years prior “largely because my dad said, ‘Come breakfasts. Even after his deployment, he tried to participate in join the Knights,’” he quipped. His father, William Edward, had council events whenever he came home on leave. been a grand knight at the Father Robert E. Nudd Council 7369 Jamie’s brother Knights of Council 2681 did all they could to in nearby Chantilly, Va. help the Wolfs as they prepared to bury their son. They made The two joined a line of K of C members in the Hassan family meals for the family, welcomed the Wolfs’ family members arriv- dating back to at least 1911. Now, ing from out of state and, most impor- three of Matt’s sons — Matthew Ed- tantly, stood close by Bob during one of ward, William and Patrick, ages 22, 20 the toughest times of his life. and 19 respectively — have made it “They got us through it,” Bob said. five generations, joining their father as “Their support got us through those first EAREABAND members of Herman J. Veger Council “W couple of months that were so bad.” 5561 in Warrenton, Va. OF BROTHERS WHO A Fourth Degree honor guard represent- Why has it been so important to ing assemblies all over western Nebraska, continue this family tradition? All the ARE THERE FOR EACH as well as from neighboring Wyoming and men have drawn rich experiences from Colorado, was present at Jamie’s funeral. the Knights’ pillars of charity, unity, OTHER, OUR FAMILIES Just as Jamie had motivated his father fraternity and patriotism. to join the Order, the rest of the men in AND OUR PARISHES.” Matthew Edward, who is now a the Wolf family became members in his 2nd lieutenant in the U.S. Army In- memory. fantry currently stationed at Fort Ben- Bob’s eldest son, David, 39, was the first ning, Ga., said that he grew up with to join in 2003 in honor of his late male role models all around him in the local council. “They brother. Jamie’s grandfather, Robert Sr., 84, who had joined the were taking care of each other and each other’s families,” he Knights in Montana long before, was reinstated into the Scotts- said. “It was this mutual care and respect that attracted me.” bluff council. Bob’s grandson, Tyler, 21, joined as soon as he was William, a student at Lord Fairfax Community College, found old enough. All serve with Fourth Degree honor guards. the Order’s history and humble beginning to be compelling. “It “It’s just a way of paying back,” explained Bob, who was elected started so small, but each little action makes a difference,” he Nebraska state warden in April, having previously served as a said, adding that no one Knight accomplishes everything alone. grand knight, district deputy, state council director, convention When Matt became district deputy in 2002, he oversaw councils chairman and program director. in several northwest Virginia counties. He soon saw that there were “I tell people that, after losing Jamie, I don’t know where I lots of social activities at the councils but not as many faith events. would have gone without the fraternity and the spiritual strength “I would go to the meetings and encourage the sacramental that I got from my council, my brother Knights and their fami- life,” Matt said. This involved promoting nights of confession lies,” Bob said. and eucharistic adoration and processions, and encouraging sup- Soldiers in Jamie’s Army unit, he added, “would talk about the port of local seminarians and young Catholics pursuing religious brotherhood, about being there for each other.” life. “When challenged,” he said, “the Knights stepped up.” “To me, that is what we Knights are,” he said. “We are a band For Matt, though, the most profound manifestation of the of brothers who are there for each other, who are there for our Knights’ principles came after his wife, MaryAnn, received a di- families and our parishes.”♦ agnosis of cancer. During her long battle, Council 5561 raised money for Matt and MaryAnn to make a pilgrimage to Lourdes. MATT HADRO is a reporter for Catholic News Agency/EWTN After MaryAnn died in January 2016, the Knights helped with News based in Washington, D.C. He is a member of George her funeral and catered the reception. Brent Council 5332 in Manassas, Va.

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Above (left to right): Leroy V. Anderle, Leroy J. Anderle, Ron Anderle and Zachary Anderle — four generations of Fourth Degree Knights — stand together at the K of C Arkansas State Convention in Fort Smith, April 29. • Below: Robert Wolf Jr. (second from left) is joined by his father, Robert Sr., son David (far right) and grandson Tyler (left), all members of Father Timothy P. Malony Council 2681 in Scottsbluff, Neb., at the Nebraska State Convention in Kearney, April 29. TOP: Photo by Brittney Owens Photography — BOTTOM: Photo by iNk Photography

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A ‘Miraculous Way’ for Student Moms

North Carolina Knights support a unique residence for single mothers pursuing a college education

by SueAnn Howell

abies are usually a rare sight on college campuses, but at of directors began a strategic plan in 2004, which eventually BBelmont Abbey College scholars pushing strollers are led to the first maternity home for college student mothers, a now commonplace. Nestled in a wooded area of the campus particularly vulnerable population that often feels they have to in Belmont, N.C., just outside of Charlotte, lies the first res- choose between college education and their unborn children. idential facility ever built exclusively for pregnant college stu- The Benedictine monks of Belmont Abbey readily agreed dents and their children. to lease the four acres needed for the ambitious project. The home is a place of hope built in 2012 by MiraVia, a “Belmont Abbey has sponsored the college since its found- Charlotte-based ministry to pregnant ing and thus the welfare of students is women, in collaboration with the particularly important to our monas- Knights of Columbus in North Car- tic community,” said Abbot Solari. olina, Belmont Abbey and the college. “The belief in the sanctity of human “The pro-life community has life taught by our Catholic faith needs come together here in a way that’s to be expressed in actions, and we never been seen before to provide a were happy to set aside a parcel of our visible solution to an often invisible property for this good work.” problem,” explained Debbie Capen, When MiraVia’s capital campaign MiraVia’s newly appointed executive for the project was launched in the director and the home’s former resi- summer of 2008, letters of support dential director. “At colleges across were issued from Belmont Abbey Col- America, pregnant students are lege and the bishops of North Car- choosing abortion because they can’t olina. The Knights of Columbus of find any other choice. We are here to North Carolina was fast to reply. change that.” “The first pledge came from the The name MiraVia is derived from North Carolina State Council for Latin and means “miraculous way.” $35,000,” recalled Jeannie Wray, for- Originally called Room at the Inn mer executive director of MiraVia. and officially renamed in 2013, the organization opened its “And local councils joined in from all over the state pledging doors in 1994, offering free services to pregnant women in their support.” Charlotte. The Belmont facility now serves women wanting Deacon Tom McGahey, a past grand knight of Rev. Msgr. to build independent, healthy lives for themselves and their Joseph A. Kerin Council 12654 in Huntersville, N.C., children, without having to drop out of college. helped rally councils statewide to raise funds for the resi- dential facility. FAITH IN ACTION “Colleges don’t offer day care, allow mother-baby housing The home at Belmont Abbey College began as an inspiration or provide counseling that supports life choices. As a result, of Benedictine Abbot Placid Solari, the chancellor of Bel- babies are at risk and mothers are left without support,” Mc- mont Abbey College, when he learned that Room at the Inn Gahey explained. “Without the ability to continue in their served mostly college-aged women. The organization’s board education, they are almost destined for poverty.” Photo courtesy of MiraVia

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Above: Two mothers who live at MiraVia’s residence for college student moms, located on the campus of Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, N.C., walk with their babies in front of the Abbey Basilica of Mary Help of Christians. Sister Mary Raphael, DVM, who assists at the residence, pushes a stroller at left. • Opposite page: Bianca, the first mother to reside at the MiraVia home, is pictured with her son, Kasen, in 2014.

Tom Mathis, a past grand knight of Bishop Michael Begley place June 20, 2011, with Bishop Peter Jugis and clergy of the Council 770 in Charlotte, also assisted with fundraising ef- Diocese of Charlotte, together with Abbot Solari, the monks forts. Now a member of the MiraVia board of directors, of Belmont Abbey, national pro-life leaders and state and local Mathis initially contacted the organization in 2008 to offer K of C representatives in attendance. his help on a more immediate level. “The students who live on this campus get to see the reality “I made an appointment with Jeannie Wray to volunteer in that there are options,” Belmont Abbey College president whatever way MiraVia needed my help. I was thinking she William Thierfelder said at the groundbreaking. “They’ll see would ask me to mow the lawn; instead she asked me to work we are not a materialistic society and we don’t have to be rel- with Tom to continue building K of C support for the proj- ativists — that we are here and that we can do good. My hope ect,” Mathis recalled. is that our students will get to participate. They will come to “The Knights have been leaders in the pro-life arena, so see that pro-life is the norm, not the exception.” Jeannie, Deacon Tom and I thought they would welcome the The Belmont facility was completed just over a year later. opportunity to support the building,” he continued. “It is a Abbot Solari, who serves on MiraVia’s board of directors, model of holistic support for the mother and her family that spoke on behalf of the monks during his remarks before the resonates beyond just the pro-life community.” ribbon-cutting July 16, 2012. Like Thierfelder, he said that the monks hoped the new home would “be a witness to our BREAKING NEW GROUND own students.” North Carolina Knights collectively raised $500,000 toward He also thanked Jeannie Wray and Cindy Brown, former the construction of MiraVia’s maternity home on the campus executive directors of Room at the Inn, for their “visionary of Belmont Abbey College. The official groundbreaking took leadership” that led to the initiative. Photo by Megan Whiteside/courtesy of MiraVia

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MiraVia resident Aña and her daughter, Lana, are pictured at the Belmont home with Debbie Capen, MiraVia executive director, and Tom Mathis, a board member of MiraVia and past grand knight of Bishop Michael Begley Council 770 in Charlotte.

This past March, when Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson a religious community that has evolved along with MiraVia, received the inaugural Benedict Leadership Award at Belmont helps to provide emotional and spiritual support for the Abbey College, Thierfelder accompanied the supreme knight mothers, care for the babies and prepare meals. on a visit to the MiraVia residence. “I have learned so much about spiritual motherhood from They toured the 10,000-square-foot facility, which can their courage and selfless decisions made for their own dignity house up to 15 mothers, 15 infants and four toddlers for free as women and for their babies,” Sister Mary Raphael said. for up to two years. Each mother has a private bedroom and “And nothing melts your heart like the little ones trying to bathroom and shares the kitchen, dining room and laundry make the sign of the cross or the occasional carrot flung onto room with other residents. Administrative and counseling of- our plates by little hands.” fices and quarters for residential managers are on site. Residents do not have to be Catholic or even students at MOTHERS AND KNIGHTS Belmont Abbey College, though the college offers full tuition MiraVia’s first resident was Bianca, who gave birth to her son, scholarships to student mothers at MiraVia. Others commute Kasen, in 2013 while living at the Belmont home. to colleges or universities in the Charlotte area. “I didn’t believe it at first,” she said. “I thought, ‘It can’t be Sister Mary Raphael of the Daughters of the Virgin Mother, real. There’s no way there’s a place that will help me go to Photo by Nathan Abplanalp Photography

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Left: Sister Mary Raphael visits with MiraVia resident Skyy and her baby, Samia, in 2015. • Above, left to right: Tom Mathis; Benedictine Abbot Placid Solari, chancellor of Belmont Abbey College; Cindy Brown, former executive director of Room at the Inn; Jeannie Wray, then-executive director; and Bishop Peter J. Jugis of Charlotte partic- ipate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the newly completed residence July 16, 2012.

school, help me pay for my baby’s diapers, his food, give me Currently, MiraVia has openings at the Belmont residence, a place to stay, give me a crib and my own bathroom — all and the staff is eager to serve women from any region. for free.’” The organization also continues to provide material sup- After spending 22 months there, Bianca and her little boy port, professional counseling and other services for women in moved on to the next chapter of their lives in the summer of the Charlotte area who are not in need of residential help. To 2015. Bianca graduated from UNC-Charlotte, is now married date, more than 7,000 women have received some kind of as- and hopes to pursue a law degree. sistance through Room at the Inn/MiraVia. Aña was 19 and a student at a local community college And together with local Catholic schools, parishes and oth- when she found out she was pregnant. She considered adop- ers, North Carolina Knights have been very supportive from Catholic News Herald tion for her unborn child, yet after giving birth to little Lana the beginning. According to Mathis, the Knights regularly as- 20 months ago she decided to keep her daughter. sist MiraVia with “toy drives at Christmas, food and diaper “MiraVia was the perfect place to go for emotional sup- drives, and ‘baby shower collections,’ in addition to financial port as well as financial assistance and childcare,” said Aña, support of operations.” who herself was adopted from Kazakhstan. “It gave me the From personal experience, Debbie Capen knows she can opportunity to grow and it took away a lot of stress. I was count on the Knights. She remembers the friends from her able to focus on the main goal of raising my child and mak- father’s council being there for her family when he died. She

— RIGHT: Photo by Christopher Lux/ ing a plan.” was in the eighth grade at the time, and her father’s K of C Now 21, Aña just “graduated” from the home in May. She life insurance policy provided financial stability for her family, completed her studies at nearby Gaston College and will allowing her to go to college. begin a nursing program this fall to pursue her dreams of be- “What a beautiful thing to see the Knights coming to the coming a medical researcher. assistance of these young mothers,” she said. “It’s a real life Catholic News Herald “I’m really proud of every one of our young women who example of men stepping up and being there when we need completed their degrees,” Wray said. “They work hard to be them most.”♦ good mothers. In the face of all of their difficulties, they un- derstood the gift (of MiraVia) and worked hard to achieve SUEANN HOWELL is senior reporter with the Catholic their goals.” News Herald, the newspaper of the Diocese of Charlotte, N.C. LEFT: Photo SueAnn Howell/

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REPORTS FROM COUNCILS, ASSEMBLIES KNIGHTSACTIONIN AND COLUMBIAN SQUIRES CIRCLES

Sahuayo was the location of the celebration because it is the birthplace of the young saint. The council gave over 2,000 hours and $14,000 to provide for the pilgrims.

PREPARATION MANUALS District P29 of Luzon South donated 72 disaster pre- paredness manuals to Caritas Paranaque, which includes the cities of Paranaque, Las Pinas and Muntinlupa. The manuals equipped local parishes, communities and volunteers with the knowl- edge to prepare for and ad- dress natural disasters and other emergencies.

MOBILE UNIT DONATION Sacred Heart Council 12438 in Manning-Manilla, Iowa, Larry Doyle, a veteran and member of St. Thomas the Apostle Council 11588 in West Hemp- made a $10,000 donation to stead, N.Y., places flags at the Long Island Veterans Cemetery during an annual council trip to Informed Choice of Iowa to honor deceased veterans. help fund the operation of “Charlie,” their mobile med- ical unit. The council also HOME GOODS that yielded $2,239 from SAYING THANKS hosts an annual soup-supper FOR A GOOD HOME 150 generous guests. The Father McRedmond Council fundraiser for pro-life causes. St. Rose of Lima Council proceeds will help send two 3175 in Oak Ridge, Tenn., 6386 in Short Hills, N.J., local seminarians on a pil- held an appreciation lunch delivered furniture that had grimage to the Holy Land for the men and women of been donated for Mary’s for spiritual formation. the Oak Ridge Police De- Place, the second facility of partment to thank them for Magnificat House. The two ALTAR their service to the town. The facilities are renovated, re- ON HIGH council presented the police purposed convents that pro- Van Wert (Ohio) Council with a special banner made vide homes for women in 6034 constructed a level for them by the students of need. The council has raised framework for a new sanctu- St. Mary’s Catholic School. $25,000 for the organiza- ary platform at St. Mary of tion, $9,000 of which came the Assumption Church. CANONIZATION from a St. Valentine’s Eve Thirty-seven members of the CELEBRATION gala dinner featuring enter- council donated over 1,000 Requested by its diocese to Father Sean Weeks, pastor of tainment by Broadway volunteer hours to refurbish minister to pilgrims, Excmo. St. Pius X Catholic Parish, artists of the parish. the worship space by remov- Sr. Obisbo Cázares y draws a raffle winner from a ing carpet, installing hard- Martínez Council 4637 in bucket held by Neil Stoneberg MOTHER’S RECIPE wood floors, demolishing Sahuayo, Michoacán, Mex- of St. Pius X Council 12656 in St. Louise de Marillac the old sanctuary platform ico West, prepared and Portland, Ore. The council Council 8186 in Warren, and building a new one, and served dinner to 10,000 held drawings for its second Mich., hosted a lasagna moving the tabernacle to the people who traveled to their annual “Win One for the Pas- fundraiser dinner. Following center of the church. In ad- town to celebrate the canon- tor” raffle over the course of the recipe of their chaplain’s dition to labor, the council ization of St. José Luis 10 weeks. The $2,000 in prof- mother, the council pre- donated the $39,845 raised Sánchez del Río, who was its will support the parish’s pared 14 trays of lasagna for the project. martyred at age 14 in 1928. youth ministry. Top photo by Haydee Torres

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purchased supplies to serve need of specialized medical breakfast at Siloam Mission, treatment. The tournament a center that offers meals, opened with a flyover of pi- clothing and services to lots in “missing man forma- those in need. The Knights tion” in memory of Quinn, cooked and served 635 who was himself a pilot. meals consisting of 1,600 pancakes and 100 dozen PARISH PRAYER eggs. Knights served guests Bishop Hoban Assembly in with disabilities individually, Honesdale, Pa., worked with going table to table to greet the Lay Dominicans and the them and serve juice. pastors of four local parishes to coordinate liturgies at each BE OUR GUEST of the churches. The liturgies Marquette Council 1437 in offered parishioners a chance New Orleans, La., hosted a to reflect on the works of dinner for sisters taking part mercy and to fulfill the re- in the annual St. Bernard quirements for a plenary in- Parish “Nuns Build,” which dulgence. Knights not only works to restore homes in helped organize the events the New Orleans area that but also served as sentinels were devastated by Hurri- during eucharistic adoration. Members of Father Francis S. Franklin Council 6037 in Con- cane Katrina. neaut Lake, Pa., prepare to take to the highway just west PLEDGE of Conneaut Lake for the first highway cleanup of the sea- MEMORIAL COMPLETED son. The council celebrated its 25th year of performing this TOURNAMENT St. Sebastian Council 14642 community service. John J. Cempre Council in Byron Center, Mich., 6328 in Culpeper, Va., held a made the final payment on charity golf tournament hon- its $25,000 pledge to the DINNER SERVICE ASSISTING oring deceased Knight J.J. parish’s St. Sebastian Build- Christ the Light Council LITTLE SISTERS Quinn. The event raised ing Fund. Thanks to hard 15191 in Oakland, Calif., St. Pius X Council 13085 in $14,000 for a charity in work and an array of events served in the local St. Vincent Mobile, Ala., sponsored a fish which Quinn was heavily in- — including Sunday break- de Paul Dining Room. The fry booth at the “Lawn volved: Angel Flight Mid- fasts, raffles, and beer and Knights and their families Party,” an event which raised Atlantic, an organization of wine tasting — the council prepared meals, sorted food funds for the Little Sisters of private pilots that provides made good on its pledge 18 donations and worked the the Poor. Knights and family transportation for those in months ahead of schedule. meal line and dining room members contributed 137 during the lunch hour, serv- hours during the event, fry- ing over 200 trays to those in ing up 295 pounds of catfish, need. The day of volunteer- 960 beignets and 672 Oreos. ing began a commitment by The booth raised $5,071 for the council to serve at the the Little Sisters. dining room every month. EMERGENCY RESPONSE BABY SHOWER Holy Infant Jesus Council St. Bonaventure Council 12171 in Sorsogon, Luzon, 10049 in Manomet, Mass., prepared grocery packs for held its annual baby shower 30 families affected by a fire, drive at St. Bonaventure 24 of whom were left home- Parish. The drive netted less. The council also $1,500 in items and dona- quickly gathered several tions of $3,700 for the loads of new and used cloth- Members of Ambrose Council 8403 in Annandale, Va., stand Boston Archdiocese Preg- ing for the fire victims. with an image of the future St. Ambrose Church. The council nancy Help Center, which raised some $40,000 for the parish project though dinners provides many physical and COMMUNITY OUTREACH and other fundraisers, and contributed in particular to the counseling resources for Christ the King Council “Knights’ Window,” a large rose window portraying Mary with women and families in need. 8124 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the Christ Child.

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HELP AROUND booth at the town of St. THE HOUSE John’s annual two-day Gar- Victor (N.Y.) Council 6652 lic Festival. The menu, lent a helping hand refur- which included garlic bishing the preschool class- brownies, netted $1,700 for rooms of St. Patrick’s the council’s charity fund. Church. Outside the parish, the council cooked a chicken CLEAR THE PATH dinner at St. Joseph’s House West Huron Centennial of Hospitality, a Catholic Council 8042 in Caseville- Worker facility serving those Pigeon, Mich., completed a in need in the Rochester two-year project to install area. When St. Joe’s oven two new energy-efficient and broke past repair, the council handicapped-accessible doors made a donation to help the at St. Roch Church. The new center purchase a new one Al Milavickas (left), Nate Redwitz, Mike Gonda, and Joe Welps entry replaced outdated and and continue its ministry. of Father George Kuzma Council 11149 in Wilmington, Ill.,and overworked doors. fellow Knight Bob Kulas work the grill at one of the council’s six HELPING HAND cookouts to raise funds for the Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage. TRADITION OF SERVICE Pope John XXIII Council After cooking through all kinds of weather and raffling off a do- West Allis (Wis.) Council 5677 in Cedar Rapids, nated television, the council met its goal of raising $2,600 to 3095 has continued a tradi- Iowa, held a pancake break- sponsor the travel of a veteran and his or her caretaker to the tion of support for the VA fast fundraiser to help a Marian apparition site of Lourdes, France. Hospital of Milwaukee since council member and his 1974. Every month, Knights family after he suffered a se- visit the hospital to supply vere stroke. The event raised YOUTH RETREAT Jochems Assembly, all in sandwiches, fruit and more than $3,000 to help Santo Domingo de Guzmán Atchison, Kan., joined desserts as well as a game of with medical expenses. Council 14383 in Yauco, forces to repair ceiling tiles bingo for permanent resi- Puerto Rico, organized a re- and a crack in the wall at Sa- dents of the hospital. Win- treat at a convent of the Do- cred Heart Church. The ners receive a coupon book minican Sisters of Our Lady damage seemed to have re- that can be used in the hos- of the Holy Rosary of Fatima. sulted from an earthquake pital canteen. The council The retreat, which welcomed centered in Oklahoma. The also made a donation of youth aged 15-20, included repairs, which had Knights $600 toward the VA’s new varied talks and guidance for scaling high scaffolding, Fisher House. spiritual growth. saved the parish thousands of dollars. INTERNATIONAL GIFT HOME REPAIR Lcdr. Joseph T. O’Callahan Sto. Nino Amigopoy Coun- A FRIEND IN NEED USNR (CHC) Assembly in Members of Bossier (La.) cil 11048 in Davao City, St. Peter Council 6534 in Spring, Texas, gave chalices Council 4873 work on the Mindanao, raised funds to Eaton Rapids, Mich., con- to each of three Czech tran- council’s cooking trailer, buy construction materials structed a wheelchair ramp at sitional deacons who were which served over 800 meals after the home of a brother the home of a Knight who visiting the parish. The chal- in two days during the disas- Knight was severely damaged had undergone an emer- ices were given in memory of trous flooding of March by a tree that was toppled by gency leg amputation. The three deceased Knights. 2016, when more than 3,500 strong winds. Practicing the council had held a Mexican households were placed Filipino tradition of bayani- dinner fundraiser to cover HEAD TO TOE under mandatory evacua- han, which refers to a spirit the $1,500 cost of the ramp Osseo-Maple Grove (Minn.) tion. A project that began of communal unity, council installation, but due to its Council 9139 stepped up in with one pot of jambalaya members also volunteered success, an additional $3,100 its second year of participa- expanded to more than 20 their time and labor to repair was raised to help pay med- tion in the Order’s Coats for volunteers cooking nonstop the home. ical bills following the Kids program, providing at the Emergency Operation Knight’s long hospital stay. 432 coats. Having learned Center in Bossier City, pro- SAVE THE CEILING that local children were also viding hot meals for first re- Sacred Heart Council 723, CULINARY ADVENTURE in need of snow pants, the sponders, a wide array of St. Patrick’s Council 818, St. Our Lady of Fatima Coun- council purchased 200 pairs rescue workers and dis- Benedict’s College Council cil 8613 in Conyngham- to keep the kids warm placed residents. 4708 and William T. Drums, Pa., manned a food through the winter months.

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DIAPER DRIVE Father James P. Conroy Council 4403 in Bettendorf, Iowa, together with St. John Vianney Parish, conducted its second annual Diaper Drive in support of the Women’s Choice Center of the Quad Cities. Since eco- nomic pressures can cause pregnant women to consider abortion and baby supplies are expensive, the 16,119 di- apers and 13,896 wipes col- lected will be a significant resource for the WCC and its clients.

IN MEMORIAM Muenster (Texas) Council 1459 held a fish fry fundraiser in memory of Sacred Heart Catholic School (SHCS) principal Dr. Rafael Rondon,

Members of Father Robert F. Wicks Memorial Council 9936 in Margaree, Nova Scotia, pause during a service day at the cemetery of St. Michael’s Parish. With the help of parish volunteers, the council repositioned headstones, filled depressions and trimmed grass.

a member of the council who people with disabilities, expanded on the Coats for passed away in 2015. Profits Lenten fish frys and volun- Kids program in its commu- from the fish fry enabled the teer work at concession nity by accepting donations council to make a $5,000 do- stands during Titans football of gently used coats from nation to SHCS in memory games. Project One Four’s members of St. Paul the of Dr. Rondon. facilities not only offer a Apostle Catholic Church. shared play-space but also The council collected more SCHOOL SUPPORT allow children confined to than 150 coats for Catholic Members of St. Raphael’s St. Claude (Manitoba) wheelchairs, and those with Charities Family Home in Council 11305 in Oshkosh, Council 7766 sponsored a other disabilities, to play or- Midwest City and the VA Wis., prepare strawberries. brunch that raised $1,000 ganized baseball. Hospital in Oklahoma City. The council thanked the for the School of the Good women and families of St. Shepherd, a Montessori- VITAL RESOURCE GOOD NEIGHBORS Raphael the Archangel Parish style school. Crescenta Valley Council St. Michael’s Council 5292 with the chocolate-covered 3254 in Montrose, Calif., in Bedford, Mass., reached a strawberries after Masses on LEVEL FIELD organized, promoted and new milestone in its Mother’s Day, and they also Marian Council 4563 in conducted a drive to connect fundraising efforts for the raised $1,000 for Oshkosh Murfreesboro, Tenn., learned blood donors with the Buy Your Neighbor a Meal Right to Life through a con- that Project One Four, an Huntington Hospital. Ac- program. For four consecu- current rose sale. To com- initiative of the David Price cording to Blood Drive tive years, the council has plete the day, the council Foundation, aimed to build Chairman Brian Brady, 46 donated $2,500 annually to delivered strawberries to a a baseball field and play- pints of blood were drawn at the program, the goal of retirement community of the ground where children with St. Bede Parish to meet crit- which is to offer monthly Sisters of the Sorrowful or without disabilities could ical blood bank needs. support to parish families in Mother to particularly thank play alongside one another. need. Through the program, them for their devotion to Council 4563 contributed COATS FOR ALL grocery gift cards are distrib- Christ and the Church and $23,000 — raised through St. Paul the Apostle Council uted by the parish’s Christian for their motherly love. its annual fund drive for 16214 in Del City, Okla., Social Service Committee.

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purchased by the council through the Coats for Kids program, were delivered by Knights and Saskatoon Blade players to young peo- ple at the White Buffalo Youth Lodge, a support cen- ter for families and children.

SIGNS OF APPRECIATION Iron River (Mich.) Council 2300 hosted a Red, White, and Blue Mass in conjunc- tion with their Corporate Communion at St. Agnes Parish in Iron River to honor the firefighters, EMS per- sonnel, police officers and all their family members for the Charles Bugelli (foreground) of Father Arnold Kosco Council 12808 in West Bloomfield, unselfish service that they Mich., with Alex Franz and Geoff Downer (on ladders) of St. Francis Council 4401 in Farm- provide to the local commu- ington apply paint at the Monastery of the Blessed Sacrament in Farmington Hills. Thirty- nities. The Knights provided one Knights from seven Detroit-area councils united to prepare, prime and paint an outdoor an honor guard for the breezeway for the cloistered Dominican sisters of the monastery, whose mission includes emergency personnel and a perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, daily liturgy and contemplative prayer. Sev- light brunch after Mass. The eral councils contributed to a total of $1,200 for paint and supplies, and the service project council also held its first involved an estimated 400 volunteer hours. “Black Cow” project at the Iron Mountain Veteran Hos- pital, serving approximately WELCOMING NEW a unique quilt for the council council succeeded in raising 75 patients, visitors and KNIGHTS to use in a fundraiser, result- more than $16,000 — aides with cookies, root beer Davis Lambright Council ing in over $1,000 for the enough to purchase a new ul- floats and ice cream sundaes. 4101 in Fort Worth, Texas, pregnancy resource center. trasound machine for Sussex coordinated a membership Pregnancy Care Center in drive. The program included LONG-TERM GOAL Georgetown, Del. a poster publicizing the good To support the newly built works of the Knights on and dedicated Our Lady of BROTHERS FOR LIFE local, state and international Grace Church, Our Lady of Father Joseph M. Geary levels; announcements at Grace Council 14765 in In- Council 3523 in Santa Masses, which led to an in- dian Land, S.C., spent two Clara, Calif., rallied to assist formational meeting; and a years fundraising for a pavil- a widowed council member presentation by St. Peter the ion that could host parish who has Alzheimer’s. After Apostle Catholic Church’s functions and the council’s the death of his daughter, pastor, Father Richard Flores, events. Two golf tournaments the council arranged the fu- about support from the raised $14,000 for the facil- neral and began caring for Knights during seminary. ity, while a “Donor’s Club” their brother Knight on a raffle brought in $12,000. daily basis, keeping his fi- PRO-LIFE TEAMWORK nances in order, shopping Our Lady of the Pines Coun- TAKING INITIATIVE and cooking for him. John Quintavalle (left), Hank cil 11730 in Black Forest, Msgr. Francis J. Desmond Montoya and Raymond Van- Colo., auctioned a quilt sewn Council 13348 in Lewes, HOCKEY PARTNERSHIP derwarren of St. Louis De- and decorated by a pro-life Del., held a series of “Re- Sheptytsky Council 4938, in Montfort Council 14553 in Oak activist determined to sup- spect Life” fundraisers at St. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Lawn, Ill., install new trim in the port the Colorado Springs Jude the Apostle Church. collected coats and cash do- rectory of St. Louis de Montfort Pregnancy Center. Refusing Thanks to the generosity of nations during a game of the Church. The council’s refur- to be sidelined by age, the parishioners, and with Saskatoon Blades junior bishment included removing 98-year-old Ms. French re- matching funds from the Ul- hockey team. The collected old carpet and installing new purposed blue jeans to make trasound Initiative, the coats, in addition to 12 cases hardwood flooring.

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HARDLY TRIVIAL residential care and support- Father Funken Council ive services for pregnant and 1504 in Kitchener, Ontario, parenting adolescent moth- coordinated its first Trivia ers and their infants since Challenge. After several 1914. Since 2009, the coun- months of planning, the suc- cil has raised more than cessful event raised $12,500 $200,000 for the home for the ministry of Marillac through the generous re- Place, a community shelter sponse of St. Peter Claver that provides safe, affordable parishioners to the council’s accommodation, with basic fundraising campaigns, life skill training, childcare which have included a “Bot- guidance and educational tles for Babies” change drive opportunities. Marillac Place and the annual “Birdies for is open to independent Babies” golf tournament. women between the ages of The council’s support has Participants of all ages demonstrate in the ninth annual Walk 16 and 25 who are pregnant, enabled St. Agnes Home to for Life in Grangeville, Idaho. Grangeville Council 4058 made parenting or attempting to undertake many key im- breakfast for the participants at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish be- gain custody and provide provements, and will fund a fore the two-mile walk, which was followed by a talk at the care for their child. new dining area as well as a church. Members of St. Michaels Council 4585 in Orofino took creative play and learning part in the walk as well. PORCH FOR space for the children. A PARISHIONER St. Helen’s Council 11738 in RECTORY RENOVATED staining and installing new Bishop Donald J. Hying of Glendale, Ariz., provided a Twelve members of Bishop trim and baseboards, sheet Gary and Father Peter Muha, fellow parishioner with a LeBlond Council 5067 in rocking and painting inte- pastor of Our Lady of Con- new porch for her home. St. Joseph, Mo., worked rior walls, along with many solation Parish, assist with Over five days, seven more than 1,000 hours to other jobs. The efforts of serving the meal. Knights spent 80 hours con- help renovate the rectory of these Knights saved the structing the porch. St. Patrick’s Church. They parish thousands of dollars. A NEW SERVICE spent time tuckpointing The Visayas Jurisdiction SUSTENANCE bricks on the exterior walls of GOODS DELIVERED made its first donation of an FOR STUDENTS the rectory, completing tile Our Lady of Divine Provi- ultrasound machine to the At the request of the religious work, stripping woodwork, dence Council 13066 in West Visayas State Univer- education coordinator of St. Maria Siquijor, Visayas, sity Medical Center in Alphonus Church, Stanley S. made deliveries to 20 fami- Lapaz, Iloilo City. Together, Herbert Sr. Council 8770 in lies in need. The “bundles of the Knights and the medical Maurice, La., cooked supper joy” included 5 kilos of rice, center took a step toward for 80 people during the clothing and canned goods, providing accessible medical parish’s Confirmation retreat. worth a total value of 400 services for expectant moth- The students asked for pesos. The council raised ers by equipping a pro-life gumbo, which the council funds for the project pregnancy care center with gladly provided to support through bingo socials. modern technology that the students during their will enable pregnant women preparation for the sacra- SERVING IN UNITY to see and hear their babies ment. The council members Good Shepherd Council in utero. particularly relished the 10811 in Merrillville, Ind., chance to visit with the Con- prepared food for Our Lady firmation candidates as the of Consolation Parish’s large pot of chicken and Members of Our Lady Im- Friends in Christ Ministry. sausage gumbo simmered. maculate Council 8026 in The Friends in Christ Min- kofc.org Georgina, Ontario, work along istry is part of Feeding the exclusive PRO-LIFE MILESTONE the fence of Immaculate Con- Flock, an ecumenical group See more “Knights in The St. Peter Claver Council ception Church in Sutton. The of six churches in the area. Action” reports and council planted 160 cedar 10817 in West Hartford, Each Saturday a member photos at Conn., reached a milestone trees to create a screen be- church prepares a meal for www.kofc.org/ in its support of St. Agnes tween the rectory and the 120-150 people in need. The knightsinaction Home, which has provided neighboring youth center. council was honored to have

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ON-TARGETRECRUITING

K OF C ITEMS OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS ‘Actions speak louder than words’ IN THE UNITED STATES THE ENGLISH COMPANY INC. Official council and Fourth Degree equipment Ronald J. Alonzo joined the Knights of 1-800-444-5632 • www.kofcsupplies.com Columbus in 1980. A past grand knight of LYNCH AND KELLY INC. Corpus Christi (Texas) Council 1202 and a Official council and Fourth Degree equipment and officer robes former district deputy, he currently serves as 1-888-548-3890 • www.lynchkelly.com faithful navigator of Father James Flanagan Assembly in Corpus Christi and Texas State IN CANADA ROGER SAUVÉ INC. Council Charities Director. Official council and Fourth Degree equipment and officer robes 1-888-266-1211 • www.roger-sauve.com THE ATTRACTION OF ACTION The best way to recruit is to implement programs that are going to help the com- munity and the Church. You don’t have to 06/17 JOIN THE FATHER reinvent the wheel. When the church com- ! MCGIVNEYGUILD munity sees that your council is active — Please enroll me in the hosting a blood drive, serving coffee and Father McGivney Guild: donuts after Mass, or involved in all the beautiful Masses of Holy Week NAME — then they want to be part of it. ADDRESS You can give them all the literature you want, but they want to be a part CITY of something that’s active and successful. It’s as my mother always told STATE/PROVINCE me: Actions speak louder than words. ZIP/POSTAL CODE Complete this coupon and ALL TALENTS WELCOME mail to: The Father When men join the Knights of Columbus, I make them aware that every McGivney Guild, 1 Columbus Plaza, single one of them has a talent. It’s like St. Paul says: we all have different New Haven, CT gifts, yet we are all one in the Body of Christ. 06510-3326 or So if you are thinking, “What can I bring to the Knights of Columbus?” enroll online at: www.fathermcgivney.org then you should know that there is a place for you. If you’re willing to step forward and accept the challenge, there is a program where you can fit in. OFFICIAL JUNE 1, 2017: To owners of Knights of Columbus insurance policies and persons LIVING AS CATHOLIC GENTLEMEN responsible for payment of premiums on such policies: Notice is hereby given that in accordance with the provisions of Section 84 of the Laws As a college student, I noticed an employee with a Third Degree pin who of the Order, payment of insurance premiums due on a monthly basis to the Knights of Columbus by check made payable to Knights of always sat in his car for a while in the parking lot before entering the build- 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 ing. I asked him one day, “What are you doing before you walk in?” He policy. In Canada: Knights of Columbus, Place d’Armes Station, P.O. Box 220, Montreal, QC H2Y 3G7 said, “I’m finishing praying the rosary. I pray it when I go to work and on ALL MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOS, ARTWORK, EDITORIAL MAT- TER, AND ADVERTISING INQUIRIES SHOULD BE MAILED TO: my way home.” COLUMBIA, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-0901. RE- JECTED MATERIAL WILL BE RETURNED IF ACCOMPANIED BY A His prayerful example made a powerful impression on me. SELF-ADDRESSED ENVELOPE AND RETURN POSTAGE. PUR- CHASED MATERIAL WILL NOT BE RETURNED. OPINIONS BY Once I got to know him, and he learned I was Catholic, he asked me, WRITERS ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRE- SENT THE VIEWS OF THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS. “Are you ready to join the Knights of Columbus?” I said, “Yes, I’m ready.” SUBSCRIPTION RATES — IN THE U.S.: 1 YEAR, $6; 2 YEARS, $11; 3 YEARS, $15. FOR OTHER COUNTRIES ADD $2 PER YEAR. As Knights, our way of life as Catholic gentlemen can recruit more indi- EXCEPT FOR CANADIAN SUBSCRIPTIONS, PAYMENT IN U.S. CURRENCY ONLY. SEND ORDERS AND CHECKS TO: ACCOUNT- viduals than any recruitment tool that’s out there. ING DEPARTMENT, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-0901.

COLUMBIA (ISSN 0010-1869/USPS #123-740) IS PUBLISHED FAMILY FOCUS MONTHLY BY THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, 1 COLUMBUS PLAZA, NEW HAVEN, CT 06510-3326. PHONE: 203-752-4000, Our bishop wanted an assembly in every deanery, so we established a new as- www.kofc.org. PRODUCED IN USA. COPYRIGHT © 2015 BY KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRO- sembly at our church. Now we have the Fourth Degree full out for every spe- DUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED. cial occasion. It’s amazing — kids were asking who we were, and then they PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NEW HAVEN, CT AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. POSTMASTER: SEND AD- would turn and ask, “Daddy, are you a part of the Knights of Columbus?” DRESS CHANGES TO COLUMBIA, MEMBERSHIP DEPART- MENT, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-0901. I just love the Order’s emphasis on building the domestic church. When CANADIAN POSTMASTER — PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 1473549. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE you join the Knights, if you give it any time at all, it becomes a part of your CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, 50 MACINTOSH BOULEVARD, CONCORD, ONTARIO L4K 4P3 day-to-day life. The Knights are a big part of my family, and I think we’re PHILIPPINES — FOR PHILIPPINES SECOND-CLASS MAIL AT THE MANILA CENTRAL POST OFFICE. SEND RETURN very blessed.♦ COPIES TO KCFAPI, FRATERNAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, PO BOX 1511, MANILA.

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Building

a better world Members of St. Louis Council 7439 in Lucban, St. Vincent Ferrer Council 10383 one council in Sampaloc, Father Horacio de la Costa at a time Council 7721 in Mauban and San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila-Mauban Council 15938 Every day, Knights all over the world are in Polo Mauban gather March 25 as pro- given opportunities to make a difference life witnesses during Luzon South District — whether through community service, 60’s annual Walk for Life. raising money or prayer. We celebrate each and every Knight for his strength, his compassion and his dedication to building a better world.

TO BE FEATURED HERE, SENDYOURCOUNCIL’S “KNIGHTSIN ACTION” PHOTOASWELLASITSDESCRIPTIONTO: COLUMBIA, 1 COLUMBUS PLAZA, NEW HAVEN, CT 06510-3326 ORE-MAIL: [email protected].

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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

‘PLACE YOUR VOCATION IN MARY’S HANDS.’

I don’t know where I would be without the Blessed Mother. When I was in high school, I struggled to discern God’s will for my life. A priest assured me that if I prayed the rosary every day, Mary would tell me what her Son wanted me to do. After some time, the answer became clear: God wanted me to be a priest. However, I was too afraid to say “yes.” Then, on the feast of the Annunciation, while I was in college, I saw how Mary said “yes” to her own vocation, and I was graced with the courage to do the same. But what did my “yes” mean? God was call- ing me to be a priest, but what kind: diocesan or religious? Trusting in Mary, I followed St. Louis de Montfort’s teaching and consecrated myself to Jesus through Mary, placing my vo- cation in her hands. As I now prepare for priestly ordination, my advice to anyone struggling to discern his or her vocation is to go to Mary. Place your voca- tion in her hands, and she will always lead you to her Son.

DEACON CHRISTOPHER SULLIVAN Diocese of Rockville Centre Msgr. Stanley Matthews Council 3536 in Larchmont, N.Y. Photo by Jeff Bruno