The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic men's fraternal benefit society that was formed to render financial aid to members and their families. Mutual aid and assistance are offered to sick, disabled and needy members and their families. Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious, social welfare, war relief and public relief works.
The history of the Order shows how the foresight of Father Michael J. McGivney, whose cause for sainthood is being investigated by the Vatican, brought about what has become the world's foremost Catholic fraternal benefit society. The Order has helped families obtain economic security and stability through its life insurance, annuity and long-term care programs, and has contributed time and energy worldwide to service in communities.
The Knights of Columbus has grown from several members in one council to more than 13,000 councils and 1.7 million members throughout the United States, Canada, the Philippines, Mexico, Poland, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Panama, the Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, Guatemala, Guam and Saipan.
Who We Are
The Knights of Columbus is the world's largest Catholic family fraternal service organization
with 1.6 million members.
It provides members and their families with volunteer opportunities in service to the Catholic Church,
their communities, families ,and young people.
Faith
As Knights, our faith is our foundation. Dedicated to the Catholic Church’s growth and her good works, we support religious outreach, promote vocations, and provide financial support for seminarians and postulates. This way, we help support our Church and strengthen our personal faith.
Community
As committed as we are to the Catholic Church, so are we to our communities. By actively and financially supporting Special Olympics, by leading the charge in pro-life, or by safeguarding the environment, Knights of Columbus members all over the world have helped countless communities prosper.
Family
As fathers and husbands, serving our families is not only part of what we do its part of who we are. To that end, Knights of Columbus councils offer programs that strengthen family and marital bonds by holding numerous family focused events, including the "Family of the Month" program that honors outstanding families. Most importantly, as Knights, we are able to provide assistance and support to Knights and their families whenever needed.
Youth
The importance of helping today’s youth become tomorrow’s leaders is also a huge focus of the Order. For that reason, many local councils sponsor Columbian Squire Circles, the Order’s official youth organization for Catholic young men, ages 10–18, which provide them the unique opportunity to develop leadership skills. Additionally, through activities such as the Catholic Citizenship Essay contest, the Substance Abuse Poster contest, and the annual Free Throw championship, the Knights of Columbus assists youth in building a strong sense of civic and religious responsibility.
Fourth Degree
Any Third Degree member in good standing, one year after the anniversary of his First Degree, is eligible for membership in the Fourth Degree. The primary purpose of the Fourth Degree is to foster the spirit of patriotism by promoting responsible citizenship and a love of and loyalty to the Knights' respective countries through active membership in local Fourth Degree groups (called "assemblies"). Certain members of the Fourth Degree serve as honor guards at civic and religious functions, an activity that has brought worldwide recognition to the Knights of Columbus.