Why Join the Knights of Columbus?

Imagine being part of an organization that fills your heart and your mind with the joy of giving to others and the feeling that comes with making a difference.

Knights are Catholic men, 18 years of age and older, who are committed to making their community a better place, while supporting their Church. Being a Knight is more than camaraderie; it is being involved with your community; it is supporting your local Catholic Church, while enhancing your own faith; it is about protecting and enhancing your family life.

I don't have time to join another organization; why should I join the Knights of Columbus?
As a Knight you can choose the projects with which you wish to be involved in within your own community. What is more, the Order is dedicated to family life and the many benefits it offers. From insurance to scholarships to service and social activities and programs, all are open to the whole family.

Do I have to purchase Insurance to become a member?
No; unlike many fraternal organizations one does not become a member by purchasing insurance. In the Knights of Columbus a man has to be a member before he may avail himself of the insurance benefit. Purchasing insurance is optional, however; the life insurance and long-term care insurance products offered by the Order are not only competitively priced, they are among the most solid and highly rated products available anywhere. Standard & Poor's and A.M. Best, the leading independent agencies that rate insurance companies, give K of C insurance their highest ratings.

Who are the Knights of Columbus?
The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic men's fraternal society. Founded by the Venerable Father Michael J. McGivney, the Knights of Columbus received its charter on March 29, 1882 in the state of Connecticut. The purpose for founding the Knights of Columbus was
manifold. We still adhere to those purposes today in that we:
• help Catholic men remain steadfast in their faith through mutual encouragement
• promote closer ties of fraternity among the members
• offer a voluntary insurance program so that widows and orphans will be provided for in the event of the death of a Knight
• maintain ideals of spirituality and service to church, country and fellow man.

Worldwide, in 2008 the Knights donated US$150 million and 68.8 million hours of service to those in need. Today the Knights have blossomed into an international society of over 1.75 million Catholic men, plus their families, in more than 13,400 Councils who have dedicated themselves to the ideals of Columbianism: Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism. Faith, Fellowship and Philanthropy are the distinguishing marks of the Knights.

The Knights of Columbus Council in St. Bonaventure Parish
The St. Bonaventure Council of the Knights of Columbus received its charter on November 7, 1979. Our Council has grown to over 275 members who are involved in the church, the community and with fraternal activities.

Can Anyone Join the Knights of Columbus?
We welcome all Catholic men 18 years of age and over to join our Council. The Order is a family organization, dedicated to promoting full family participation in suitable activities. Members are not obligated to attend all meetings but are encouraged to do so. Members' dues are $40.00 annually, with a special rate for ages 18-25. Application forms are available from any member and they will be pleased to propose eligible Catholic men for consideration as members.

Join Us!

For further information, please contact:

Ray Martin, Grand Knight - 403 278-5609 (martinr1@telus.net)
Pierre Roy, Membership Director - 403 278-9686 (pierrer@telusplanet.net)