The World According to Oatney

The strong right arm of the Church

I think one of the most important things that I am involved in, and the thing that I am most proud of, next to my beautiful and wonderful wife, is being a Knight of Columbus. Each year, the Knights contribute millions of dollars to charities in local communities all over America. Knights sponsor everything from Little League teams to charity bowling tournaments to benefit Jerry's Kids. Two of the Knights' most recognizable programs are the annual MR Drive (Here in Ohio it's called "Measure Up,") to help retarded citizens live fulfilling and active lives, and the annual K of C free throw contest, an incentive for young people to be more involved in athletics. This week, the Supreme Council announced that it is asking Knights of Columbus Councils throughout the United States and Canada to join together and raise one million dollars for relief for victims of the tsunami disaster in South Asia.

Perhaps the most important work that the Knights do, however, is the work the Knights do for the Church. In parishes where the Knights of Columbus are active, many Knights serve funeral masses whn there is no one else to serve them. Knights act as ushers, Eucharistic ministers, parish council members, and many have become priests, deacons, and bishops. Much of the Knights' local charity money goes to support parochial education and church outreaches to the poor, homeless, and others who are less fortunate.

In Ohio, Knights of Columbus will begin their annual charity campaign this week. If a Knight or a family member asks you to buy a ticket, please do so. Your one ticket touches the lives of so many people that you may never meet.

posted by Deacon David Oatney @ 12:02 PM