Table of Contents
Introduction
At the annual Organizational Meeting of State Deputies in New Haven, Connecticut, Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly introduced new faith formation initiatives to the state deputies and chaplains in attendance. The meeting brought together leaders from the Knights of Columbus jurisdiction throughout North America and around the world. The deputies and chaplains had the opportunity to work and pray together as they looked ahead to the 2023-2024 fraternal year. The meeting included fraternal events, workshops, planning sessions, and a pilgrimage to sites related to the founder of the Knights of Columbus, Blessed Michael McGivney.
Installation of Newly Elected Deputies
On June 9, the state deputies and chaplains gathered for a Mass at St. Mary’s Church, celebrated by Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore. Following the Mass, Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly officially installed the newly elected deputies. The installation was followed by a eucharistic procession down Hillhouse Avenue, concluding with benediction on the steps of the church.
Keynote Remarks
During the meeting, Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly and Archbishop Lori delivered keynote remarks to the state deputies and chaplains. Supreme Knight Kelly reflected on the Order’s witness of co-responsibility between clergy and laymen, emphasizing the importance of shared responsibility for the mission of the Church. He highlighted the example of Blessed Michael McGivney, the founder of the Knights of Columbus, who dedicated his life to the service, protection, and formation of those in his care. Supreme Knight Kelly called on Knights to have the “heart of a father” and to inspire a new generation of men to do the same.
New Faith Formation Initiatives
Supreme Knight Kelly introduced a new initiative called Cor, which aims to strengthen faith formation and evangelization among Catholic men. The initiative includes regular gatherings centered on prayer, formation, and fraternity, outside of the traditional Knights of Columbus council business meetings. The Cor meetings will be supported by a new Bible study for Catholic men titled “Men of the Word,” which provides discussion content. The study emphasizes the power of praying with Scripture in understanding what it means to be an authentic Catholic man.
Another new program introduced is a video series about marriage and fatherhood, following the success of the original “Into the Breach” series. The new series offers practical advice for living out the Catholic faith in marriages and homes. Both the Bible study and video series will be officially launched at the Supreme Convention in August.
Updates on Charitable Giving
Supreme Knight Kelly also provided updates on the Order’s charitable giving and hours of service. He highlighted the success of the ASAP (Aid and Support After Pregnancy) initiative, which supports pregnancy resource centers and maternity. The Knights of Columbus exceeded their first-year goal and raised over $5 million for the initiative.
Importance of the Cor Initiative
Archbishop Lori emphasized the importance of the Cor initiative to the Knights’ mission. He stated that opening our hearts to Christ and to one another is essential for achieving the goals of growth in membership, attracting a younger demographic, and expanding the scope of charity. The Cor initiative seeks to cultivate a vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer, formation, and fraternity. Archbishop Lori expressed his belief that the Knights of Columbus is well-positioned to provide Catholic men and their families with the hope and resources they are looking for in a world filled with isolation, polarization, and disregard for the truth.
Conclusion
The annual Organizational Meeting of State Deputies provided an opportunity for state deputies and chaplains from the Knights of Columbus to come together, pray, and plan for the upcoming fraternal year. Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly introduced new faith formation initiatives aimed at strengthening men’s faith and inspiring them to lead with the “heart of a father.” The initiatives include the Cor gatherings, a Bible study for Catholic men, and a video series on marriage and fatherhood. The meeting also highlighted the Order’s charitable giving and hours of service, particularly the success of the ASAP initiative. Archbishop Lori emphasized the importance of the Cor initiative and its ability to provide Catholic men and their families with the hope and resources they are seeking.