For Chaplains
‘A Civilization of Love’
Starting with this issue,
Chaplain’s Report is being mailed to all state deputies and district deputies of record. This is to ensure that as leaders you are aware of the initiatives being discussed in this newsletter and can help to share them with your councils. Also, encourage all officers and Knights to visit
www.kofc.org/newsletters where they can find hyperlinked, full-color versions of this and other publications. ‘A CIVILIZATION OF LOVE’ Our past issues of
Chaplain’s Report have generated some positive reactions from its audience. A number of chaplains have either called or written letting us know that they have implemented some of the ideas publicized in the newsletter — especially regarding the emphasis on spiritual development through programs conducted during council meetings — and that they are happy with the results. This emphasis on spiritual development at council meetings has not yet reached all our chaplains, but it is our optimistic desire that through the presence and inspiration of chaplains there may be a new awakening of hope and enthusiasm in our councils. What pastor would not delight in the knowledge that the Knights of Columbus in his parish were dedicated to the furthering of their understanding and knowledge of their faith so as to be true Christ-like leaders within the community? “Be not afraid” and “launch out into the deep”! As you know, Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson has authored and co-authored a number of profound books. The first one,
A Civilization of Love, has rightly received much publicity. It has recently been translated into Italian and released in Rome. On behalf of Pope Benedict XVI, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone issued a message regarding the presentation of the book: “The Supreme Pontiff directs his auspicious well wishes and hopes that this providential editorial initiative arouses a renewed fidelity in Christ and a generous evangelical witness. ...” Is this not the goal toward which we are aspiring? Can we not take the initiative? Should we not renew our own fidelity? Are we not being asked to give true evangelical witness in a generous manner? Our faith is being challenged at every turn in the public and political arenas. We are being questioned as to the very relevance of our Christian faith. God himself is being debunked! We, as Knights, cannot stand by idly. We are men of hope, looking for new opportunities to express our Christianity as Knights. During an online discussion regarding his book, Supreme Knight Anderson was asked, “how do we as Knights bring the realization of your writing into the Order?” He replied: “This is part of the genius of Father McGivney, that his organization is so relevant today and so in tune with the pastoral mission of John Paul II and Benedict XVI. One way would be for councils to use the book for discussion purposes either in their council meetings or at the parish level.” In a similar vein and in answer to another question, Supreme Knight Anderson added: “One way is to discuss the principles included in the book and to encourage people to read it to further that discussion. Of course, we must implement the challenges the book lays out in terms of living our faith in a very serious and loving way, and make sure that we as individuals are the building blocks of this civilization of love.” It is a good thing that we are challenged, because such tests awaken us from the lethargy that can pervade our councils, especially if there is a lack of true spirituality. The faith development of some of our councils is well under way. Some have said they would like to do more. Consider using
A Civilization of Love as a way to challenge your council’s membership to continue building and strengthening their spirituality. May the good Lord grant us the grace to look forward with faith, hope, love and conviction. May he abundantly bless all your efforts.
God bless and keep you all.
Father John Grace, O.S.A.
Director of Chaplain Programs and Development
john.grace@kofc.org
(203) 752-4263
