About Us

The Principles of the Order:
Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism

Organization Purpose

The Order was formed in 1882, in New Haven, Conn, by Father Michael J McGivney and a small group of men of St. Mary’s Parish. The aim was to face the problems of anti-Catholicism and ethnic prejudice; un-employment; lack of social standing and early loss of the breadwinner.

Our Resolve

To solve these problems, the KofC was formed to: Aid one another in times of sickness or death, by means of a simple insurance plan. Strengthen each and every one in their Faith. Strengthen families and family life. Be a strong pillar of support for our priests and bishops. Be of service to Church and community by coming to the aid of those most in need in society.

Who are the Knights of Columbus?

To fully appreciate the dynamics of the Knights of Columbus, it is helpful to understand how the Order started. In the late 1800’s the United States was experiencing tremendous population growth-much of it stemming from European immigrants. It was a time of adjustment and sacrifice for these pioneers. Catholic immigrants found themselves to be a despised minority. Discriminated against, they were given the lowest paid, most menial and dangerous jobs. Poverty, disease and accidents took their toll and often resulted in the death of the breadwinner.

Father Michael J. McGivney saw these hardships on a daily basis. Having had the same experience as a child, he knew firsthand of the difficulties faced by these families. Left without pensions or means of support they turned to their parish community for help. Father McGivney responded. In 1882, Father Michael J. McGivney brought the concerned men of his parish to form a new fellowship of care and protection…The Knights of Columbus. Its primary goal: “To render financial aid to its members and the beneficiaries of its members.”

Today, the Knights of Columbus Insurance is recognized as one of the top insurance companies in the world. We currently maintain the highest ratings available by A.M. Best, Standard & Poor’s and Insurance Marketing Standards Association (IMSA). Only 4 other companies maintain this combination. As reported by A.M. Best… “The rating of the Knights of Columbus reflects the society’s very strong market presence in the Catholic community, exceptionally strong capitalization, consistently favorable earnings performance, and high-quality balance sheet.”  As reported by STANDARDS & POORS…” Knights of Columbus has historically maintained extremely strong capitalization.  At year end 2004, CAR (Capitalization Adequacy Ratio) was 1,321%, which is the highest in the industry.

Join us today and experience the difference…
we need you!

The following is a list of notable living and deceased members of the Knights of Columbus, the world’s largest Catholic family, fraternal,service organization.

Politics and Public Service:

The Church:

 

Sports and Athletics:

Others

 

 

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