Solidarity in Prayer and Quiet Service

K of C chaplains called upon to play active role in new initiative; praying, offering and interceding for the good of all

The virtue of solidarity is defined as bearing one another’s burdens and overcoming evil with good. Pope Francis pointed out the need for this virtue, saying: “The Lord asks us and, in the midst of our tempest, invites us to reawaken and put into practice that solidarity and hope capable of giving strength, support and meaning to these hours when everything seems to be floundering.” The Holy Father specified, “It means finding the courage to create spaces where everyone can recognize that they are called, and to allow new forms of hospitality, fraternity and solidarity.”(Extraordinary Moment of Prayer, March 27, 2020).

While the ways in which solidarity is manifested by our brother Knights may vary from place to place, one thing is still necessary — the spiritual leadership and directing vision of our council chaplains and parish priests. The new K of C Leave No Neighbor Behind initiative encourages the active support and guidance of the local council chaplain to assess exactly where and how brother Knights may be of assistance to the parish community and beyond. Council chaplains are encouraged to be in constant communication with council members about the ever-changing needs of the local community.

Many brother Knights have lent their knowledge and expertise to assist their pastors with setting up online Masses and parish giving, and they joined video and conference calls for the rosary and other devotions. Council members should also have contacted every brother Knight personally, especially older members or those less active, to see if they may be in need of groceries or just someone to speak with. Brother Knights can also assist the parish in assessing and providing resources for parishioners in need through phone trees and other means. In areas less affected, brother Knights can put together care packages for areas that may be harder hit. In all these efforts, our brother Knights are counting on their chaplain to direct their efforts where they are most needed.

In reflecting on the high priestly prayer of the Lord Jesus, “That they may all be one”(Jn. 17:21), Pope Francis reminded all the faithful of the importance of our shared responsibility of prayer and service these days: “How many people every day are exercising patience and offering hope, taking care to sow not panic but a shared responsibility. How many fathers, mothers, grandparents and teachers are showing our children, in small everyday gestures, how to face up to and navigate a crisis by adjusting their routines, lifting their gaze and fostering prayer. How many are praying, offering and interceding for the good of all. Prayer and quiet service: these are our victorious weapons” (March 27, 2020).

May the Risen Lord Jesus, give us the victory over every evil, very soon. Vivat Jesus!