Council 12996: St. Martin of Tours / Holy Rosary

Our Council

In October of 2001 a group of Catholic gentlemen from St. Martin of Tours and Holy Rosary Parish communities set out to carry forth the vision put in motion by Father Michael J. McGivney. In just a few short years our council has grown to over 70 members and has contributed over $15,000 to a wide variety charitable causes. Our council has been recognized for its demonstrations of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism with star council awards for 6 of the last 8 years and invites all Catholic gentlemen in our community to join us in our journey to foster a civilization of love.

A Message From The Grand Knight

Dear Brother Knights:

Charity is the first principle of the Order. Knights are followers of Christ and men of faith. As St. James reminds us, "faith without works is dead". Therefore, as Knights we are committed to charity, easing the plight of those less fortunate.

Unity is the second principle of the Knights of Columbus. In unity there is strength. Existing in an environment that was openly hostile to Catholics, the founders of the Order relied on the strength of unity to remain steadfast in the Faith while claiming their rightful place in society. Today the Order uses that strength to speak out for religiously-grounded moral values in a culture that has forsaken them.

Fraternity is the third principle of Order. In 19th century America, life insurance was beyond the financial reach of many poor Catholics, and social services did not exist. Through the Knights of Columbus men were able to band together as brothers to help one another in times of distress, sickness and death.

Patriotism is the principle of the Fourth Degree. One of the reasons the Order was founded was to emphasize that Catholics are proud citizens of their countries. Today Fourth Degree Knights in full regalia, the visible arm of the Order, serve to witness to the values of devotion to God and country, the bedrock of patriotism.

Vivat Jesus

Brother Mike De Kleyn