Who are the Knights?
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.
One hundred twenty two years ago, the Knights of Columbus was established by a young priest, Fr. Michael J. McGivney, in New Haven, CT to strengthen a Christian presence that was severely discriminated against. Since then over 3,000,000 Knights of Columbus members and their families have focused on areas of concern that need continued attention by Catholic lay people today.
Some of these areas are:
- Conducting works of charity
- Promoting human dignity and rights
- Fostering respect for lift
- Fostering religious liberty
- Promoting social and economic justice
- Promoting education, culture, and art
- Promoting vocations, including religious, marriage, family life and youth
As the largest organization of Catholic men in the world, the Knights of Columbus plays a leading role in service to our Church, our Country and families. However, the larger and stronger our Order becomes, the bigger job it can do. We need new men with new ideas and the enthusiasm for the work we have ahead of us. Will you join?
Membership Benefits
As a member of the Knights of Columbus you and your family enjoy many benefits, including 12 free issues annually of the Columbia magazine, the world’s largest Catholic family magazine, eligibility to join the Knights of Columbus top-ranked life insurance program, and many more family and personal benefits.
How to Join
Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to practicing Catholic men in union with the Holy See, who are at least 18 years old. A practicing 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.