About Us OUR HISTORY AND HERITAGE Founded on the principles of charity, unity and fraternity, the Knights of Columbus was established in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney, assistant pastor of St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Conn., and a group of parishioners. Their intent? To bring financial aid and assistance to the sick, disabled and needy members and their families. Today, Father McGivney is being considered for sainthood. OUR MISSION Together, we’re empowering Catholic men to live their faith at home, in their parish, at work and in their community. KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS CHARITIES Charity is at the heart of our work and our faith — and it always has been. For the Knights of Columbus, charity means supporting a virtually boundless variety of projects. OUR FAITH Our goal is to help men, their families and their parishes grow closer to Christ. Through our programs and resources, we provide opportunities to live and spread the Catholic faith. WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A KNIGHT We are Catholic men who lead, serve, protect and defend. We share a desire to be better husbands, fathers, sons, neighbors and role models and to put charity and community first. KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS INSURANCE The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal benefit society, which means we can provide financial security to members and their families, while turning premiums into charitable impact. INVEST WITH INTEGRITY Help Secure Your Financial Future with Faith-Based Investing Learn more: “These Men They Call Knights” The Vision of Father McGivney Restoring the Facade of St. Peter’s Basilica The Fraternal Survey Structure of the Order Who Can Be A Knight The Patriotic Degree Insurance Fraternal Benefit Programs “Surge … with Service” Membership Programs Training Aids Crusade for Life Catholic Information Service College Councils The Knights and Education Student Loan Program A Notable Victory Many Benefactions Historical Commission Papal Film Library War Against Pornography Playgrounds in Rome Bringing the Pope to the World A Firm Foundation Starting Out Right Additional Member Benefits A Message From the Supreme Knight https://www.kofc.org/en/who-we-are/our-story/index.html