McGivney Fellowship

Forming Christ-centered, virtuous leaders for the Knights of Columbus

What is the McGivney Fellowship?

The McGivney Fellowship is a selective, two-year leadership formation experience designed for faithful, engaged Knights of Columbus who demonstrate both spiritual depth and leadership potential. Named in honor of Blessed Michael McGivney, this Fellowship exists to strengthen the Church and the Order by forming men who lead as Christ leads — through humility, courage and sacrificial service. 

This program integrates Catholic spiritual formation with practical leadership development. Fellows are formed not simply to do more, but to become more: men of prayer, integrity, discernment, and mission.

The McGivney Fellowship forms leaders who govern themselves in Christ and lead others for his mission inside and outside the Knights of Columbus.

Program Structure

The Fellowship begins each year with an in-person kickoff conference, followed by seven monthly virtual formation sessions. Between sessions, Fellows engage in guided reading, journaling and reflection. They participate in a small Fellowship group that fosters fraternity, accountability and dialogue. Participants should expect to invest 5–7 hours per month.

Formation Focus

In addition to focusing on prayer, we will cover:

Pre-Formation

Theological virtues: Faith, Hope, and Charity

Year One

Cardinal virtues: Prudence, Justice, Courage and Self-Control

Year Two

Leadership virtues: Humility & Magnanimity

Leadership competencies (decision-making, communication, listening, delegation, storytelling, adapting to change, and leading with or without explicit authority) are woven throughout and connected to virtue. 

Fellowship Candidates

State deputies play a critical role in identifying and recommending Knights who will steward leadership well — today and for generations to come. Fellows must be:

Directly recommended by their state deputy

Active Knights of Columbus

Men of well-known character

If you’re interested in joining the Fellowship, talk to your state deputy about receiving his nomination. For further details on the Fellowship, or for help contacting your state deputy, please complete our contact form.

Questions?