1.  I’m just an ordinary Catholic – not some spiritual Superman.

Actually, the requirement to join the Knights of Columbus, in addition to being a man ages 18 or older, is that the applicant be a “practical Catholic.” OK, what does that mean? A practical Catholic is one who accepts the authority of Jesus Christ, as taught by His Church, and who practices the precepts of the Catholic Church. Ask yourself: 

• Am I a member of a local Parish? (You’re reading the Church Bulletin, so the probable answer is likely, “Yes.” You can move on to the next requirement.)
• Do I strive to understand and live in accord with the teachings of the Church?
• Am I looking for opportunities to grow in the practice of my faith?

If the answer to all four of those questions is yes, then you’re just the kind of spiritual Superman we’re looking for.

2. The Knights of Columbus are involved in all this corny, secrecy stuff.

You must be talking out our three degree ceremonies associated with becoming a full member of the Knights of Columbus. And you are correct, these degree ceremonies – which are really are compelling lessons on the topics of Charity, Unity and Fraternity – are indeed secret. Fr. Michael McGivney, founder of the order over 125 years ago, felt that the lessons would have more impact if they were received without prior knowledge of their content – that is why the ceremonies themselves are secret. Why risk spoiling the benefit for future members? Other than that, there is no secrecy. Business meeting are open to members only (hardly different than most other organizations) but the topics discussed are not secret. After all, the really interesting stuff is published on the Council web site. Now that is certainly NOT a way to maintain secrecy!

3.  I have a limited amount of time – not enough to give so the Knights of Columbus.

Yes, some members are able to give A LOT of time to the Knights. We couldn’t run without their commitment or energy. You may be in a position to give that kind of commitment. But we also couldn’t do what we do without the scores of members who help out with specific activities that are of interest to them. As a Knight you can choose the projects with which you wish to be involved in within your own community. What is more, the Order is dedicated to family life and the many benefits it offers. From insurance to scholarships to service and social activities and programs, all are open to the whole family.

4. I want to invest my free time in my family and children.

Actually, this is a renewed area focus for the Council this year. Do you want opportunities for a fun night out with your wife? Then you’ll be interested in joining us for our various socials, dinners, and – new to the calendar this year – a square dance night! (Hint – our Council Director in charge of Social activities is the same person who helps run the OLGC Social Group. So you’re bound to see some awesome ideas.) And, if you want to be more involved in your kids, then consider our sports related activities (the Youth Soccer Challenge, the Free Throw Championship), our college scholarship contest, our family oriented meal extravaganzas (the Pasta Dinner and the Pancake Breakfast) as well as some new activities for the young ones (such as Lunch with Santa). If that isn’t enough, how about a night out with the Philadelphia Phantoms or the Camden Riversharks?

Simply put, if all we’re doing is separating you from your family, then we really don’t deserve your time and commitment after all.

5. The Knights aren’t involved in the type of things that would be of interest to me.

Actually, if your desire is to grow in your faith, minister to your family, and to help those in the community who are in need, then you’ll likely find that we ARE involved in activities that would be of interest to you. Just check the annual calendar at our Council website (www.kofc1082.catholicweb.com) and see if this is not the case. And, if the Knights are really not involved in the types of activities that would be of interest to you, then perhaps it’s because we don’t have your input!

So, what do you think?

Hopefully we’ve actually provided some good reasons why you SHOULD join the Knights. Are there some objections that we didn’t address? Do you want some additional information on how to join? Email us at kofc1082@catholicweb.com and we'll be happy to get you started!