Overview
Christians are at risk in areas all around the globe. The Knights of Columbus responded with the Persecuted Christians Fund, which has provided humanitarian assistance, primarily in Iraq, Syria, and the surrounding region. Councils will aid this cause by collaborating with their parishes to spread awareness and raise funds to help these Christians and those in their care. In particular, councils are encouraged to utilize Solidarity Crosses as a fundraiser and prayer campaign in their parishes. For Christian Refugee Relief program resources, visit www.kofc.org/refugee.
Action Steps
- Identify a program chairman to oversee all action steps and delegate tasks, as needed. If coordinating with the parish, confirm pastor approval with grand knight, and then set up subsequent parish ministry collaboration meetings.
- Set an annual goal for the council to raise for the Persecuted Christians Fund.
- Contact your grand knight, financial secretary, or program director to order Christian Refugee program resources through Supplies Online via Officers Online. Solidarity Crosses are available online for order at www.knightsgear.com.
- Build public interest for your program! Promote each event in your parish and larger community through a variety of efforts:
- Prominently display promotional posters
- Bulletin announcements
- Pulpit announcements
- Posting on your council and parish website / social media pages
- On the day of each event, wear Knights of Columbus-branded apparel and have the council membership director set up a table with brochures and membership documents (including Prospect Cards #921A). Do not forget that this event is a recruiting opportunity!
- Enlist a fellow Knight or community member to photograph your events.
- Once you have reached your goal, submit the funds to the Persecuted Christians Fund here: www.christiansatrisk.org
- To gain credit for your program, complete the associated reporting forms.
- Immediately after your program is finished, complete the Fraternal Programs Report Form (#10784)
- At the end of the fraternal year, complete the Columbian Award Application (#SP-7)