Knights of Columbus
Anderson Knights of Columbus
Father Francis A. Friend Council 8295
Thanks to the efforts of Father Michael J. McGivney, assistant pastor of St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, and some of his parishioners, the Knights of Columbus was officially chartered in 1882 as a fraternal benefit society The “Knights” was formed to render financial aid and assistance to sick, needy, and disabled members and their families. The Order consists of more than 13,000 councils and 1.7 million members. It is the world’s foremost Catholic benevolent society. Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious and relief works. The Order has helped families obtain economic stability through its insurance programs and has contributed time and energy worldwide to service in communities.
Father Francis A. Friend Council No. 8295 was established in 1983. Jerry Carroll was the Charter Grand Knight (president), a fourth degree member and he continues to be very active in council activities. Our council has over eighty members from both St. Joseph and St. Mary of the Angels parishes. We are all practicing Catholic men interested in charity, unity, and fraternity as well as promoting our faith particularly in pro-life issues and respect for our priests.
One of our major charities is the Special Olympics. We raise funds through our “Operation Hope” Tootsie Roll Drive and other appeals. Last year’s campaign rose over $4,000. Our council also pledged to raise $7,500 for the building fund of Operation Clean Start. We promote and attend an annual silent retreat at the Jesuit Ignatius House in Atlanta (photo above). We are a fraternal organization of Catholic men doing charitable work within the parishes and community. Contact us to learn about the many benefits of becoming a “Knight.”
From His Excellency, Most Reverend Robert E. Guglielmone, 13th Bishop of the Diocese of Charleston:
" ... As a Member of the Knights of Columbus, I have personally witnessed the tremendous work that these men accomplish in the this diocese. However, there is much work which needs to be done in the name of charity. I strongly encourage each man in this Diocese, who is a practicing Cathlolic and is at least 18 years old, to prayerfully consider joining the ranks of this fine organization."
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Click here to view the official website for KofC Council 8295.