Welcome to our new Brother Knights Jerry Brandon, Dave Banaszynski, Darren Reinhart, John Bodin and Jeff Ward completing their exemplification ritual on Jan. 28, 2024.
Presiding over the event was Sir KnightTom Donnelly with the exemplification team consisting of :
Friar: Fr. Elser
Unity: Gerald Krawczynski
Charity: Bill Patterson
Fraternity: Mike Kerwin
Warden: Chris Mullaney
Investing Officer: Gary Wolfer
There were 21 knights with their wives/guests who attended the ceremony.
Pictured L-R Gary Wolfer, John Bodin, Tom Donnelly, Darren Reinhart, Gerald Krawczynski, Jeff Ward, Mike Kerwin, Jerry Brandon, Bill Patterson, Dave Banaszynski, Chris Mullaney
The Knights of Columbus Exemplification is more than just a ceremony; it's a profound expression of faith, service, and brotherhood. Through its symbolism and traditions, it serves as a reminder of the values that unite Knights and inspire them to make a difference in the world. As Knights continue on their journey, may they draw strength from the bonds forged in the Exemplification and continue to be beacons of hope and compassion in their communities.
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| Relic from the Bones of Michael J. McGivney |
Title: Remembering the Legacy of Relic Michael McGivney: A Beacon of Faith and Service
In the annals of Catholicism in America, the name Michael McGivney shines brightly as a symbol of unwavering faith, compassion, and service. As the founder of the Knights of Columbus, McGivney left an indelible mark on both the Church and society, championing the cause of the marginalized and advocating for the spiritual and material well-being of countless individuals. Today, as his relics continue to be venerated by the faithful, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the enduring legacy of this remarkable man.
Born in 1852 to Irish immigrant parents in Waterbury, Connecticut, Michael McGivney was raised in a devout Catholic household where the values of charity and solidarity were instilled from an early age. Inspired by the struggles of working-class families in his community, McGivney felt a calling to serve both God and his fellow man. This calling led him to the priesthood, and in 1877, he was ordained as a parish priest.
It was during his tenure at St. Mary's Church in New Haven that McGivney founded the Knights of Columbus, a fraternal organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to Catholic families in need and fostering a sense of camaraderie among its members. At a time when Catholics faced discrimination and social exclusion in America, the Knights provided a support network that empowered individuals to uphold their faith while contributing to the common good.
McGivney's vision for the Knights of Columbus was rooted in the principles of charity, unity, and fraternity. Under his guidance, the organization grew rapidly, expanding its reach across the United States and beyond. Today, the Knights of Columbus boasts millions of members worldwide and continues to uphold its founder's commitment to charitable works and community service.
In 2008, Michael McGivney was declared Venerable by Pope Benedict XVI, recognizing his heroic virtue and the profound impact of his ministry. Then, in 2020, Pope Francis approved a miracle attributed to McGivney's intercession, paving the way for his beatification. As the Church celebrates this significant milestone, the relics of Michael McGivney serve as tangible reminders of his sanctity and serve to inspire devotion among the faithful.
The veneration of relics has been a cherished tradition in Catholicism for centuries, offering believers a tangible connection to the saints and martyrs who have gone before us. For Catholics, relics are not mere objects of historical significance but conduits of grace and symbols of the communion of saints. As such, the relics of Michael McGivney hold a special place of honor within the Church, inviting the faithful to draw closer to God through the example of his servant.
In venerating the relics of Michael McGivney, Catholics are invited to reflect on the virtues that defined his life: faith, hope, and charity. His unwavering commitment to serving others, especially those in need, challenges us to emulate his selflessness and compassion in our own lives. Moreover, his profound trust in Divine Providence reminds us of the power of prayer and the transformative grace of God's love.
As we commemorate the legacy of Relic Michael McGivney, let us recommit ourselves to the ideals he held dear: to seek first the kingdom of God, to live lives of holiness and virtue, and to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Christ. May his relics serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come, guiding us ever closer to the heart of Jesus Christ.
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| Color Guard L-R Sir Knight Francisco Guiterrez and Sir Knight Mark Leslie |
On this day January 24th, we were blessed with viewing a Father McGinvey Relic. Thanks to our Color Guard for protecting this most valuable part of our Knights history.
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| Pictured from left to right: Bea McGannon; Pat McGannon, AR State special Olympics Director; Terri Weir, Special Olympics AR CEO; Gary Wolfer, Grand Knight |
Pictured above is a check in the amount of $4,375.00 from our council presented by Pat McGannon to the AR State special Olympics Director; Terri Weir.
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| Mandy Davis and Gary Wolfer |
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| Volunteers Wanted |
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| Mandy Davis Stephanie Bailey CHI St. Vincent |
CHI St. Vincent has a new outreach program headed up by Mandy Davis and she was our speaker at the January 2nd 2024 Council meeting. We almost heard from Stephanie Bailey also of CHI St. Vincent, but unfortunately she had some family business to take care of and had to leave a bit early.
Mandy and Stephanie had two messages. As you can tell from the material above CHI St. Vincent is looking for Volunteers. Finding volunteers is Stephanie's job description. You would be surprised at the number of Parishioners - and Knights that are currently serving as volunteers.
Mandy is the new Director of Community Outreach for CHI St. Vincent. This made possible with a grant through Common Spirit. You can visit their website at www.commonspirit.org to get ore details, however their Mission Statement gives a good description of what services they provide.
Common Spirit Mission, Vision and Values:
We strive to build more resilient communities, advocate for those who are poor and vulnerable, and innovate how and where healing can happen—both inside our hospitals and out in our communities.
We are committed to a mission of serving all people, especially those who are vulnerable. As the nation's leading provider of Medicaid services, we work to ensure those in need have access to quality care.
Our range of community health programs, research programs, virtual care services, and home health programs address the root causes of poor health such as access to quality care, affordable housing, safe neighborhoods, and a healthy environment.
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| Pictured L-R Brother Bill Taylor, Betty Bourdreaux, Grand Knight Gary Wolfer, Ruth Wolfer |
Grand Knight Gary Wolfer along with his wife, Ruth Wolfer and Brother Knight Bill Taylor presented a $5,000 check December 28th to "The Caring Place of Hot Springs". Accepting the check on behalf of Director Nina Alter, who was unavailable due to the Holidays, is Betty Bourdreaux, Business Adminstrator.
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| Sir Ed Doyle presenting check to Phyliss Hancock, Administrator of Good Samaritan |
Deputy Grand Knight Ed Doyle presented a $1,000 check to Phyllis Hancock, administrator at Good Samaritan in Hot Springs Village. The donation money was raised as part of our council's 2023 Campaign For People With Intellectual Disabilities.
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| First Step Julie Capps and Rick Darnell |
Sir Bill Nosek - December 2023 Knight of the Month
The Council 10208 "Leadership Team" voted to award the Knight of the Month designation to Sir Knight William "Bill" Nosek.
Sir Knight Bill was unable to attend the December meeting due to being held (I'm sure against his will) at Good Sam's Rehab Center so the Knight's Council brought the Award to him with Grand Knight "Gary Wolfer" and over 30 friends, Lady Knights, Nurse, Daughter and Wife joined in a surprise visit on December 8th at Good Sam's to present Sir Knight Bill with the December Knight of the Month Award!!
Contributions:
Primary Business Canvasser for CPID. A consistent lead canvasser with more clients and receipts than others combined.
Recruitment "model recruiter" for new Knights both 3rd and 4th degree.
Point person for the parish on vaccinations and preventative shots.
Auctioneer extraordinaire … able to get the best at critical venues on items ranging from cans of Bud Light to Exotic, Beautiful Jewelry
"Muscle" of the Council as it relates to unpaid dues, reluctant new recruits, new policies and more. His mantra : "You need to sell it … I'm your man"
Social Chair of the galaxy. Always there to help promote, add support and make everyone smile. He is the humor bone of our body … we are all so very grateful for who you are and what you contribute.
Many Thanks to Sir Knight Nosek for his many years of service to the KofC
(Thanks to Gary Wofler for contributing to the article)
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| Russ & Sheila Harrison- December 2023 Family of the Month |
Our December Family of the Month Award goes to Russ and Sheila Harrison!!
Starting with Sheila, the many things she does all the time.
Adoration in late evening
Lector during the Sunday 8:00 AM Mass
Member of LOSH
Coordinates programs for 3rd grade at Mountain Pine
Does Filly Feed bags for Oaklawn female track workers
And a long time member of the Food Basket Committee and Social Justice Committee
Russ:
Does PreDawn Adoration
Serves at the 8:00 AM Sunday Mass
Flag Chairman
4th Degree Honor Guard
Food Basket Committee
Secretary of the Men's Club
Member of the Cemetery Committee
Serves lunches at the Jackson House (every 1st Tuesday of the Month)
Helps with the many Kof C events where ever needed (server, clean-up, set-up, etc.)
A well deserved Award!!
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| Honorary Member Steve Faust |
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| Honorary Member John Demsky |
Honorary Life Members John Demsky and Steve Faust were recognized and presented awards at the December 2023 KofC meeting.
Honorary Membership:
Members who have attained the actual age of 65 years and who have been members of the Order for 25 consecutive years shall be designated as honorary members.
Thank you for your many years of service to the Knights of Columbus.