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Last Updated: Friday - 09/24/2010
Week of October 30, 2000
Knights remember deceased members
By DENNIS CASTELLINO
Special to the WCR
Calgary
The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic family fraternal organization whose guiding principles are charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism.
It was founded in 1882 in New Haven, Conn., by Father Michael McGivney, to provide spiritual, social and financial assistance to destitute families whose male breadwinner died prematurely.
Membership in the organization is available to men 18 years and older. However, many spiritual, social and financial benefits are also available to families.
By virtue of being members, they and their families are remembered at a daily Mass at St. Mary's Church in New Haven. Additionally, no-cost financial benefits are provided to them in the event of accidental death or premature death under specified conditions.
Over the years, McGivney's vision has been enhanced for the greater benefit of members, their families and the citizens at large by the availability of numerous spiritual, social and financial programs.
The cornerstone of the organization is its services relating to financial planning and financial products to protect its membership from the ravages of untimely death or catastrophic financial problems.
Additionally, the financial investments allow charitable donations of more than $100 million to the Church, communities, councils, families and youth.
As a special recognition for the deceased knights and their families, the organization in Alberta-Northwest Territories, and internationally, offers a special memorial Mass at which the deceased are publicly recognized and prayed for during their annual conventions.
Additionally, in November each year, the local Knights sponsor memorial Masses to remember with appreciation and gratitude the dedicated services of the deceased members.
At these gatherings, the friends and family of the deceased rededicate themselves to honour and perpetuate the vital services provided by the deceased, to the citizens of the province and country, especially those in dire need, irrespective of race or religion.
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