MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Supreme Knight Carl Anderson spoke to fellow members of the Knights of Columbus at the Order’s 137th Supreme Convention. In his speech during the business session, Supreme Knight Anderson highlighted the achievements from the past fraternal year and announced new initiatives for the Order.
The theme of his speech was “Knights of Unity.”
“Through our unity, we will continue to rise in charity and fraternity. And as we extend the hand of brotherhood, we will continue to transform the world around us — a world that needs more, not less, of the truth and witness that define all those who call themselves Knights of Columbus.”
“Kendrick wanted to be a Knight of Columbus because he wanted to help not only people, but his community. And in his last moments, Kendrick Castillo did both.”
“This evening we will posthumously present Kendrick with the Knights of Columbus Caritas Award.
I now ask the delegates here assembled to stand. And I now ask: Shall we grant Kendrick Castillo full membership in the Knights of Columbus?”
“My brother Knights, we have made a momentous decision. Kendrick wanted to join the Knights of Columbus to be more like us. By your acclamation, you have told the world that we want to be more like him.”
“In the United States, as well as in Canada, there are communities that too often are ignored. That is why we are launching a new initiative focused on Native Americans in the United States and First Nations people in Canada.”
The initiative will include:
“We are prepared to commit at least $250,000 immediately in humanitarian aid for refugees to the southern border. We are prepared to expand it, with additional resources, to help those in refugee camps in every border state — including Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. ”
“Let me be clear: This is not a political statement. This is a statement of principle. This is about helping people who need our help right now. It is a natural and necessary extension of our support for refugees across the world. It shows our nation and the world that where there is a need, there is a Knight to answer it. And on our southern border, the Knights of Columbus will be there.”
“The Knights of Columbus, through countless acts of charity, affirms the dignity of every person, from conception to natural death. This service is fundamental to our principle of unity. And nowhere is our commitment more obvious — and today more important — than in our stand for the sanctity of unborn life.”
“My brother Knights, the day is coming when Roe v. Wade will be overturned. The day is coming when we will march down Pennsylvania Avenue to the steps of the Supreme Court, not in protest, but in celebration. That day is coming when America will once again embrace life.”
“Knights don’t just step up in ordinary times. Our courage comes to the fore in extraordinary moments — especially in times of trial. … It is a powerful reminder that when disaster strikes, the Knights of Columbus strike back with service.”
Stories include:
“St. John Paul II told us, ‘A new state of affairs … calls with a particular urgency for the action of the lay faithful.’ We cannot run away or stand on the sidelines. We must do our part.”
Our part includes programs on:
“As we strive to renew our Church, we must remember that renewal starts within our own hearts. That message was brought across the United States this year through our nationwide relic tour of the incorrupt heart of St. Jean Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests.”
More information on the #HeartofaPriest pilgrimage:
(WATCH THE HEART OF A PRIEST TOUR)
“The video recounts the story of a Knights of Columbus family whose son was victimized by sexual abuse and how this courageous brother Knight and his wife responded. Their story is shocking, but it is also inspiring and empowering.”
(WATCH THE VIDEO TO HELP FAMILIES PROTECT CHILDREN)
“We must always remember the tremendous efforts and courage required to overcome the bigoted contention that Catholic faith made a citizen “unfit” for public office. … In other words, Catholics need not apply.”
“If we cannot participate in public life because of our core beliefs, then surely it will be our nation that is the loser.”
Read more:
“When I met with Pope Francis earlier this year about this crisis, he told me that ‘the Middle East without Christians is not the Middle East’ and he strongly encouraged us to continue our work.”
Our efforts:
“The Knights of Columbus are champions of charity — not just in the United States, but in every country where we are present.”
“We always remember that our Catholic difference is key to our success.”
“With more than $109 billion of insurance in force, nearly $9 billion in annual sales, and more than $26 billion of assets under management.”
“This program sponsors donor-advised funds designed to help Catholic institutions, members of our Order, and other Catholics more effectively direct their charitable giving.”
“The Knights of Columbus Charitable Fund can only be used to benefit groups and causes that are in line with Catholic values.”
“Asset Advisors has grown to more than $750 million in assets under management. Asset Advisors now is used by dozens of dioceses, religious orders and state and local councils.”
Please contact the
Knights of Columbus News Bureau
news@kofc.org, 475-255-0097