What is a Knight?
Knights of Columbus is a non-profit organization empowering Catholic men to live their faith at home, in their parish, at work, and in their communities. We provide support and resources to help men grow in their faith and become better husbands, fathers, and members of their communities. Our mission is to promote the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. We invite all men to join us and become part of a brotherhood dedicated to serving others and growing in faith together.
We believe that through faith and service, Catholic men can make a difference in their communities and the world.
Charity
Charity is at the heart of our faith, and it always has been. For the Knights of Columbus, charity means supporting a virtually boundless variety of projects.
Membership
Faith
Our commitment to charitable service is just one of the many ways that we express our Catholic faith. We're here to build a daily bridge back to what matters, for our members and fellow Catholics
Insurance
Together, lets build a bridge back to faith
With over 2 million members around the world, we have been investing our time, efforts and resources into our values of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotismsince 1882.
Asset advisors
Seeking to both grow your wealth and maintain your integrity? Consider our fully compliant investment portfolio.
The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal benefit society, which means we can provide financial security to members and their families, while turning premiums into charitable impact.
Our code of ethics and conduct
The Knights of Columbus' principles of Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism serve as the basis of the Order's core values which are Integrity, Professionalism, Excellence and Respect
Come support our mission, the world needs more Knights!
Our History
Our founding
1882-1899
The Knights of Columbus is founded by Father Michael J. McGivney on Feb. 6, 1882 with a mission of charity.
Fledgling to thriving
1900-1909
The fledgling Order grows dramatically at the beginning of the 20th century to serve communities beyond the United States.
Everybody welcome
1910-1918
During the Great War, Knights of Columbus Huts provide services under the motto "Everybody Welcome, Everything Free" - a philosophy upheld in today's charitable programs.
Charity and outreach, in search of liberty
1919-1929
The Order spearheads anti-defamation work in the U.S. and takes a stands for religious freedom in Mexico.
Helping neighbors
1930-1940
The Great Depression leads to a renewed sense of volunteer service - and Knights across the nation step up.
War & peace
1941-1950
Following the end of World War II, the Order turns its attention to the growing threats of communism and fascism, which threaten communities and religious freedoms.
"One nation under one God"
1951-1960
In 1954, the words "under God" are added to the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance completing an effort the Knights began three years earlier.
Reaching new heights; a transformed church
1961-1978
The Order embraces the challenge of authentic ecclesial reform, while remaining faithful to timeless truths and traditional values.
One Christian family
1979-1999
During John Paul II's pontificate, the Knights strengthens ties to the Church through increased support of the Vatican.
The new millennium
2000-2009
The Order builds upon its tradition of charitable work and spiritual formation.
Protecting Christians
2010-2019
Iraqi Christians are displaced by ISIS and take refuge. The Knights build a program to support displaced Christians in the Middle East including food and health care.
First in faith & charity
2020-PRESENT
Father Michael McGivney is Beatified. The Order continues to follow his vision through launching a series of initiatives – including Cor –reflecting the reality that faith and fraternity are the heart of the Knights of Columbus.