NORWICH – Knights of Columbus Grand Knight Jim Reynolds considers the local Catholic fraternity to be one of the city’s best-kept secrets, and hopes that the organization’s plan to become more visible in the community will remedy that.
Founded in Connecticut circa 1882, the brotherhood remains the “largest Catholic charity in the world, stressing the ideals of fraternity, charity, unity and patriotism,” according to Reynolds.
Locally, the organization holds numerous fundraisers and charitable events throughout the year, providing support and education for fellow Catholics and their families, said Reynolds, who added that he considered the Knights a “positive force in the community.”
In addition to its annual free-throw competition, which Reynolds said “gets the youth involved and excited in something they can relate to,” the local affiliation recently sponsored a substance abuse poster contest, and is continuing its yearly trip to Washington, D.C., marching in the Pro Life March For Life. The fraternity also provides tuition assistance for those less fortunate wishing to attend the Holy Family School, and grants three $1,000 scholarships per year to graduating Catholics wishing to attend a Catholic university.
“We’re looking to do more family oriented and social events this summer,” stated Reynolds. “Events like the Holy Family Fish Fry, this Friday and the next, are just one example. It’s important for us to support the only Catholic school in the community.”
According to a Knights of Columbus spokesperson, the fraternity is open to practicing Catholic men 18 years of age or older, in union with the Holy See, and applicants and members must accept the teaching authority of the Catholic Church on matters of faith and morals, aspire to live in accord with the precepts of the Catholic Church and be in good standing with the church.
Reynolds said that the fraternity, which meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month at St. Bartholomew’s parish center on East Main Street, is in need of new members to “help with our charitable works supporting the church and the community,” and asked that those interested contact him at 336-1311, or via e-mail at j1_reynolds@us.aflac.com.