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Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel |
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Knights of Council 8600 – Strong Right Arm to the Church
On March 15, 2008, Pope Benedict XVI declared our founder, Fr. Michael J. McGivney, as “Venerable Servant of God”. This declaration significantly advances Fr. McGivney toward sainthood, and if canonized, he would be the first American born priest to be so honored.
Supreme Knight, Carl Anderson said “The strength of the Knights of Columbus today is a testament to his timeless vision, his holiness and his ideals.” Through Fr. McGivney’s vision, the knights have been called "the Strong Right Arm of the Church," and have been praised by popes, presidents and other world leaders, for support of the Church, programs of evangelization and Catholic education, civic involvement and aid to those in need.
This week, as we witnessed Pope Benedict XVI’s “A Journey of Hope” to the United States, our examples and actions across the country spoke loud and clear. Knights of Council 8600 and those from across the country were represented in all aspects of this historical journey: from 4th Degree Honor Guards, to ushers at the National Cathedral, to supporting papal visits at Catholic University of America (CUA) and other venues, to attending the Papal Mass at the National Stadium. Knights were approached and thanked for their service at the CUA Mall, National Stadium, metro stops, and even as we were soliciting donations for our annual KOVAR drive.
In honor of Pope John Paul II, we have demonstrated to the world that we remain relevant even more than ever today, as we continue Fr. Michael J. McGivney’s vision. As exemplified by our enthusiastic support and as staunch defenders of our Church and the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, the Knights of Columbus are “the Strong Right Arm of the Church”.
As we enter the homestretch of this fraternal year, I have personally witnessed your enthusiasm and dedication to making a difference and your continued efforts to “Walk the Talk”. Through our various programs, you continue to step-up when called to help our Church, community, our priest and religious, those who are less fortunate, the disabled or those with special needs.
We have much remaining to complete this fraternal year: Degree Exemplifications, KOVAR Collections, April Improve-A-Home, 1st Friday Adorations, Route 123 Clean-up, Corpus Christi Feast Procession, Sanctuary for Life, Special Olympics, Arthritis Walk, Wounded Warrior, Celebrate Fairfax, among our many activities. In May, our nominating committee will present the slate of new officers that will be voted on in June. The fraternal year will culminate with our family picnic and installation of new officers.
This year has been fast for me. But with the strong and active participation in all our activities and functions, you have made my job easy as Grand Knight for Fraternal Year 2007- 2008.
Thank you for your support of Council 8600’s charitable and benevolent activities, and your leadership, actions and example in being “the Strong Right Arm of the Church”.
Who Are These Men --They Call Knights? They are the Knights of St. Mary of Sorrows Council 8600.
Vivat Jesus, Johnny D. Restivo Grand Knight Council 8600 |