The Knights of Columbus were founded in 1882 by a 29-year-old parish priest, Father Michael J. McGivney, in the basement of St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Connecticut. Today, more than a century later, the Knights of Columbus has become the largest lay organization in the Catholic Church.

Thanks to the inspired work of Father McGivney as well as that of millions of other knights over the past century—the Knights of Columbus now stands at its pinnacle of membership, benefits and service. Currently, there are over 1.8 million Knights of Columbus—more than ever before in our Orders history. Together with their families, the Knights are  6 million strong and continue to grow. he Knights of Columbus has grown from several members in one council to more than 14,000 councils throughout the United States, Canada, the Philippines, Mexico, Poland, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Panama, the Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, Cuba, Guatemala, Guam and Saipan.

As the Order has grown, its benevolence has multiplied. The Order continues to break all previous records for charitable contributions and volunteer service. In the past decade, the knights donated nearly $1.5 billion to numerous charitable causes and nearly 683 million hours of volunteer service. Special projects are started as needed such as the $3 million Hero’s fund for families of 9/11 first responders that lost their lives and the   Supreme Councils  pledge of $2.5 million for Hurricane Katrina Relief.   $250,000 has been  distributed to Catholic Charities in affected areas, and $1.25 million will be used to assist the homeless. An additional $1 million has been set aside to help rebuild the estimated 130 Catholic schools.

CHARITY,UNITY,FRATERNITY, AND PATRIOTISM

Knights of Columbus are Catholic gentlemen committed to the exemplification of charity, unity, fraternity, patriotism and the defense of the priesthood. The order is consecrated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Order is unequivocal in its loyalty to the Pope. 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 125 years ago and remains true to them today. Members are gentlemen, 18 years of age and  practical Catholics in communion with the Holy See.

Hyde Park Council was formed in 1968, has 180 members and provides service to the Hyde Park community, Regina Coeli Parish, St. Peters Parish and Good Sheppard Parish, Rhinebeck. Father Brendan Fitzgerald, Administrator of Regina Coeli, is the Chaplain and Father Gristo. Pastor of St. Peters is a member.

About The Knights

If you  are interested in membership or further information, please email Joe Serencsics joefser@optonline.net .To speak to someone about membership or for more information please contact: Grand Knight  Bill Ryan (845) 454-9497. You also may leave a message at the council (845-229-6111) and some one will get back to you.