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KNIGHT
IDENTITY
WHO ARE THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS?
THE KNIGHTS, a fraternal order
founded in 1882 in Connecticut, are
Catholic men of the United States,
Canada, Mexico, the Philippines,
Puerto Rico, Guatemala,
Panama, Cuba, Guam, and the Virgin
Islands who devote themselves to charitable works for the
Church and for the community.
Today, over 1.7 million men
throughout the world are members. They and their families are a foundation
of the Catholic church. There are four degrees in the order, representing
virtues of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism.
The Knights of Columbus, the
world's largest organization of Catholic men and their families, has been
called "the strong right arm of the Church," and has been cited
by popes, presidents and other world leaders for support of the Church, for
programs of evangelization and Catholic education, for civic involvement
and aid to those in need.
"Protecting Families for
Generations" is a motto that captures the Knights' adherence to the
legacy of its founder and fidelity to his vision.
Membership is open to any practical
Catholic man over the age of 18 years. A practical Catholic is one who
lives up to the Commandments of God and the precepts of the Church.
Application blanks are available from any member of the Knights of
Columbus. Every knight is happy to propose eligible Catholic men for
consideration as members.
Acceptance of the applicant depends
upon a vote of the members of the subordinate council in which he is making
application.
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