Knights History

FOUNDING AND EARLY ACTS

OUR FOUNDING

1882-1899

The Knights of Columbus is founded by Father Michael J. McGivney
on Feb. 6, 1882 with a mission of charity.

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The first group of fourth degree Knights in 1900s

FLEDGLING TO THRIVING

1900-1909

The fledgling Order grows dramatically at the beginning of the 20th
century to serve communities beyond the United States.

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Dedication ceremony of Christopher Columbus Memorial Fountain 1912

EVERYBODY WELCOME

1910-1918

During the Great War, Knights of Columbus Huts provide services under the motto
"Everybody Welcome, Everything Free" - a philosophy upheld in today's charitable programs.

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CHARITY AND OUTREACH

Classroom session, K of C-sponsored evening school program 1920

IN SEARCH OF LIBERTY

1919-1929

The Order spearheads anti-defamation work in the U.S.
and takes a stands for religious freedom in Mexico.

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The 50th anniversary speech by the Knights in 1932

HELPING NEIGHBORS

1930-1940

The Great Depression leads to a renewed sense of
volunteer service - and Knights across the nation step up.

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WAR & PEACE

1941-1950

Following the end of World War II, the Order turns its attention to
the growing threats of communism and fascism,
which threaten communities and religious freedoms.

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People are gathered in an assembly hall 1954

"ONE NATION UNDER GOD"

1951-1960

In 1954, the words "under God" are added to the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance
completing an effort the Knights began three years earlier.

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REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

An individual giving a speech on a conference

A TRANSFORMED CHURCH

1961-1978

The Order embraces the challenge of authentic ecclesial reform,
while remaining faithful to timeless truths and traditional values.

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Cardinal Agostino Casaroli and President Ronald Reagan

ONE CHRISTIAN FAMILY

1979-1999

During John Paul II's pontificate, the Knights strengthens ties
to the Church through increased support of the Vatican.

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THE NEW MILLENNIUM

2000-2009

The Order builds upon its tradition of
charitable work and spiritual formation.

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A boy holding a bag of food donations from Knights of Columbus

PROTECTING CHRISTIANS

2010-2019

Iraqi Christians are displaced by ISIS and take refuge.
The Knights build a program to support displaced Christians
in the Middle East including food and health care.

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Beatification of Blessed Michael McGivney takes place on October 31. Events are held in celebration of this from Oct. 30 -- Nov. 1.

FIRST IN FAITH AND CHARITY

2020-PRESENT

Father Michael McGivney is Beatified.
The Order continues to follow his vision through launching a
series of initiatives – including Cor –reflecting the reality that faith
and fraternity are the heart of the Knights of Columbus.

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