Welcome to the Knights of Columbus St. James Danielson, CT Council 2883. The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic men’s fraternal organization whose main principles are Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism. The Knights of Columbus have been called the, “strong right arm of the Church,” by Pope John Paul II. The Order, some 1.8 million strong worldwide, is committed to service to family, the community, and our Church. In this decade, the Knight of Columbus has donated $1.325 billion to charity and provided about 626 million hours of volunteer work worldwide.

Here in Connecticut, we are fortunate to be located in the state where Father Michael J. McGivney founded the Order. Father McGivney started the Knights of Columbus at St. Mary’s Church in New Haven in 1882. The connection between the Knights and St. Mary’s Church remains strong, and Father McGivney’s remains are entombed in a marble sepulcher near the entrance to the church. The world headquarters of the Order, as well as the impressive Knights of Columbus Museum, are located in New Haven.

At our local council, we take part in many activities (the Lenten Fish Fry, weekly bingo, the annual St. James Bazaar, and scholarships) that help to support St. James School. Through our Tootsie Roll program, we also support those with intellectual disabilities. Sales of the "Keep Christ in Christmas" magnets and buttons enabled us to provide a monetary donation to a seminarian through the Order's R.S.V.P. program. The Knights provide assistance and sponsorship with youth activities, such as the annual free throw championship, the annual Catholic School spelling bee, the soccer challenge, and a town Little League team coached by a brother Knight.

No doubt, more could be done, but we need more members to expand our charitable programs. We encourage all practical Catholic men, at least 18 years of age, to become Knights. Contact Grand Knight Andrew Langevin at (860) 634-2302 or ajlang@ct.metrocast.net if you are interested in becoming part of the, "strong right arm of the Church."

Vivat Jesus!