On its 125th Anniversary, the Knights of Columbus Stands Out
Knights of Columbus - 125th Anniversary Site
The Knights of Columbus has also long been actively involved in American public life. Before and throughout World War I, the Knights ran "Army Huts" -- facilities that provided recreation, snacks and comfort items to the troops near bases and near the front. The huts - whose motto was "Everybody welcome. Everything free" -- were a predecessor to the USO. During the 1920s, in direct opposition to the Ku Klux Klan, the Knights lobbied President Calvin Coolidge to pressure the Mexican government to stop its persecution of Catholics in Mexico. Ultimately, the lobbying paid off, and an accord was reached between the Church and the Mexican government.In the 1950s, the Knights of Columbus led the effort to have the words "under God" added to the Pledge of Allegiance. The organization continues to speak out on important social issues -- especially in the area of the protection of human life -- today. Among the many notable Knights over the past 125 years were: writers Joyce Kilmer and Miles Connolly, sports legends Babe Ruth, Connie Mack, Vince Lombardi, Floyd Patterson and Ron Guidry, and statesmen Al Smith, Henry Hyde, John F. Kennedy, Jeb Bush and Sargent Shriver.
Last year, the Knights of Columbus donated more than $139 million and 64 million volunteer hours to charity.
I'm a Knight and I definitely recommend membership for any adult Catholic male. It's a great way to get involved with an outstanding organization, do good, grow in your faith and build friendships.