The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic, Fraternal Organization founded in 1882 in New Haven, Connecticut, USA by a 29 year old priest, Father Michael J. McGivney. The Order ha been called "the strong right arm of the Church", in general and "the strong right arm" of the Parish Priest in particular. The Knights have been praised by Popes, Presidents, Prime Ministers and other World Leaders, for support of the Church, programs of evangelization and Catholic Education, civic involvement and aid to those in need. As recently as 1992, Mother Teresa of Calcutta praised the Knights of Columbus in a speech, on the occasion of her acceptance of an award, for her work with the poor and the dying of India.

Knights are Catholic gentlemen committed to the exemplification of Charity, Unity, Fraternity, Patriotism, and Defense of the Priesthood. The Order is consecrated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Order is also unequivocal in its loyalty to the Pope, the Vicar of Christ on earth. It is firmly committed to the protection of human life, from conception to natural death, and to the preservation and defense of the family. It was on these bedrock principles that the Order was founded over a century ago and remains true to them today.

Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to practical Catholic men in union with the Holy See, who are at least 18 years old. A practical Catholic is one who lives up to the Commandments of God and the Precepts of the Church. A candidate is considered a Knight after taking the First Degree, but he is encouraged to advance to the Second and Third Degrees and on to the Fourth Degree. The Fourth Degree Members support the virtue of Patriotism by serving in the honour guards, color corps and promoting respect for country and the flag. The Knights of Columbus have a proud heritage. The qualified Catholic men can share in this heritage and build a better future by affiliating himself with this forceful Fraternal Organization. We do this by participating in many programs such as: Pro-Life, Special Olympics, Health Programs, Civic involvement, War on Pornography, Substance abuse, Youth Activities. There are also Spiritual Activities such as: Vatican and Church Support, Financial aid for the recruitment and training of Priests, Keep Christ in Christmas Program, Rosary program, The Marian Hour of Prayer and Retreats etc.

Father McGivney's founding vision for the Order also included establishing a Life Insurance program to provide for the widows and orphans of deceased members. Year after year, the Knights of Columbus have earned the highest possible quality rating for financial soundness from A.M. Best and Standard and Poor's.

If you require further information concerning the Knights, you may check the church bulletin, ask an usher to point out a Knight to you at Church, or enquire at the Parish Office. Our Council at St. Augustine's is M. Leo Sweeney Council 8319.

 
Council meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month in the Parish hall.