CHARITY, THE FIRST PRINCIPLE
The first principle of the Knights of Columbus is charity. It is one of the primary purposes of our council and it is the first principle that must be perfected in order to progress as a Knight. In order to fulfill this requirement our council supports many charities nationally, but more importantly, we support several charities on the local level. Charity does begin at home.
Sts. Simon and Jude Council 8336 currently support a monthly Fun-Time Dance for the developmentally disabled at Edison Hall. In addition to financial support, Knights are on-the-ground at the event, serving food, manning the door and ensuring that everyone has a good time.
At Christmastime, Knights sell Christmas cards and use the proceeds to fuel Parish events.
Knights are deeply rooted in the Pro-Life movement, raising funds to support institutions that help women and families make better decisions.
UNITY, THE SECOND PRINCIPLE
The second core principle of the Knights of Columbus is unity. None of us is as good as all of us. Members of the Knights of Columbus all know that – together – we can accomplish far more than any of us could individually. So, we stick together…we support one another. That doesn’t mean that we always agree or that there is never a difference of opinion. But what it does mean is that – as a Knight of Columbus – you can count on the support and encouragement of your brother Knights as you work to make life better in your parish and community
Knights are in communion with the Church, and they understand, respect, and follow the teachings of the Church. Knights promote the education of our members in the teachings of the Church. A condition of membership is that prospective Knights be practicing Catholics and in communion with The Holy See. We promote the formation of an informed conscience through a variety of activities.
FRATERNITY, THE THIRD PRINCIPLE
The third core principle of the order is fraternity. Our charitable works, meetings, and social events serve to bond new members to their brother Knights as we interact to achieve a common goal, or just to enjoy each other’s company. Meetings at Colman Hall are lively, educational and friendly.
Every month, Council 8336 hosts coffee and donuts outside the church. We encourage congregants to stay after mass, get to know one another and our community needs, and to grow together as a people dedicated to God.
PATRIOTISM, THE FOURTH PRINCIPLE
Members start each meeting with two rituals: a prayer, and the Pledge of Allegiance.
For the Knights of Columbus, civic involvement comes in many forms. Members take part in community recreation programs and cultural activities, as well as patriotic observances. Knights can always be found participating in, or leading, community observances of Independence Day, Flag Day, Veterans Day, and other civic ceremonies that honor the nation and the men and women who have fought and died to protect it.
Knights of Columbus councils and assemblies also regularly recognize those who serve and protect their fellow citizens in public safety careers, including police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, as well as other key figures in their communities.