Who are we and how to contact us concerning membership!

Who are the Knights?

The Knights of Columbus was founded by Father Michael J. McGivney in 1882 in the basement of St. Mary's Church in New Haven, CT.  The K of C has become the world's largest Catholic family fraternal service organization with over 1.6 million members internationally.  The Knights provide members and their families with volunteer opportunities in service to the Roman Catholic Church, our communities, councils, families and our young people.  The Knights stand in support of our Bishops and Priests and actively support our seminarians. 

As a member of the Knights of Columbus you and your family enjoy many benefits, including 12 free issues annually of the "Columbia" magazine, the world's largest Catholic family magazine, eligibility to join the Knights of Columbus' top-ranked life insurance program, and many more family and personal benefits.

Who can join?

Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to practicing Catholic men in union with the Holy See, who are at least 18 years of age.  A practicing (practical) Catholic is one who lives up to the Commandments of God and the precepts of the Catholic Church.  Application forms (called form 100's) are available from any member of the Knights of Columbus.  To receive a form 100 and/or information regarding membership by email from the State Membership Director or by return U.S. mail, please click here and fill out the information request form in full by providing all relevant information.

The Fourth Degree

The Knights of Columbus has three Degrees or steps required to attain full Knighthood in our Order.  The Fourth Degree  is considered by many to be the visible part of our Order due to the distinctive uniform worn by Color Corps members: tuxedos, distinctive cape, white gloves, distinctive caps or "chapeaux" and a sword.  Any Third Degree member in good standing, one year after the anniversary of his First Degree, is eligible for membership in the Fourth Degree. The primary purpose of the Fourth Degree is to foster the spirit of patriotism by promoting responsible citizenship and a love of and loyalty to the Knights' respective countries through active membership in local Fourth Degree groups (called "Assemblies"). Certain members of the Fourth Degree serve as honor guards at civic and religious functions, an activity that has brought worldwide recognition to the Knights of Columbus.

Columbian Squires

Under the guidance of Christian Brother Barnabas McDonald (1865-1929), the first Columbian Squires circle was instituted in 1925. Membership in the Squires is for Catholic boys between the ages of 12 and 17.  Squires' activities are many, varying from spiritual to active service for the Church and community.  Each circle elects officer members from their own rank, teaching skills of leadership and responsibility.   If you have sons interested in such an organization, please contact us.

Ladies Guilds

As a family organization, many Councils have Ladies Auxiliaries or Guilds whose main function is to support the efforts of the council.  They do this in a variety of ways and many Ladies Guilds have charities and activities entirely of their own.  If your wife, family member or fiancee is interested in such an affiliation with the K of C, please contact us.