The Rev. Joseph Donnelly Council 11660 of the Knights of Columbus is inviting everyone to attend an evening mass Wednesday, August 13, on the occasion of the feast day of Blessed Michael McGivney, founder of the Knights of Columbus.
The Mass will be at 7 p.m. at St. Agnes Church in Atlantic Highlands.
The Knights of Columbus, who regularly hold the monthly breakfasts inviting all to attend at no cost, in addition to running numerous fund raising and neighborly gathering events ranging from concerts to dinners, are comprised of catholic men over 18 years of age from the parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Help St Agnes, as well as the area. The Columbiettes, the women’s auxiliary that assists in the success of each of these events, are with the Vincent T. Lombardi Council of the Knights, which is associated with St. Mary’s Parish in New Monmouth.
Father McGivney established the Catholic fraternal organization known as the Knights of Columbus in1882 in New Haven, Conn. His aim was uniting Catholic men, providing spiritual support, and offering financial assistance to families of deceased members. He was beatified by the Catholic Church on October 31, 2020, and his feast day is celebrated on August 13.
Born in 1852, McGivney was the son of Irish immigrants and experienced firsthand the challenges faced by Catholic families in the United States. He felt a calling to the priesthood at an early age and was ordained in 1877.
While serving as an assistant pastor at St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, he recognized the need for a Catholic organization that could offer spiritual guidance and financial protection to men and their families. His organization of the Knights helped address these needs, with a particular emphasis on aiding immigrant communities.
Once established and with the support of the Council’s earliest members, Fr. McGivney aimed to strengthen Catholic faith and identity while promoting civic engagement among members.
Because of his prayers, work and enthusiasm, the Knights of Columbus grew into a global organization, known for its charitable activities, insurance programs, and promotion of Catholic values.
Fr. McGivney died of pneumonia Aug. 14, 1890, two days after his 38th birthday, leaving a legacy as a model parish priest, a champion of the lay population and a visionary leader.
Father McGivney was declared a “Venerable Servant of God” by Pope Benedict XVI in 2008. In 2020, Pope Francis formally recognized his holiness and declared him “Blessed,” the final step before canonization as a saint.
His work continues to inspire Council members throughout the world. Locally, the Rev. Joseph Donnelly Council continues to accept new members, and continues its work both to ensure camaraderie for all residents in the area as well as sponsoring fund raising events to continue their mission of aiding others.
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