History
Michael Joseph McGivney (August 12, 1852 – August 14, 1890) was an American Catholic priest based in New Haven, CT. He founded the Knights of Columbus at a local parish to serve as a mutual aid and insurance organization, particularly for immigrants and their families. It developed through the 20th century as the world’s largest Catholic fraternal organization.
The cause for his canonization started in the Archdiocese of Hartford in 1996; in March 2008, Pope Benedict XVI declared McGivney “Venerable” in recognition of his “heroic virtue”. On May 27, 2020, Pope Francis announced that McGivney had been approved for beatification, which officially occurred on October 31, 2020.
Blessed Michael McGivney inspired the Knights of Columbus to get involved with their communities. He established the four core Pillars that should be followed.
Our Pillars
Charity
Our Catholic faith teaches us to “Love thy neighbor as thyself.” Members of the Knights of Columbus show love for their neighbors by supporting local charities and recognizing that our mission and our faith in God compels us to action. There is no better way to experience love and compassion than by helping those in need.
Unity
None of us is as good as all of us – together we can accomplish far more than any of us could individually. We support one another. 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.
Fraternity
Blessed Michael J. McGivney founded the Knights of Columbus, in large part, to provide assistance to the widows and children left behind when a family member passed away – often prematurely. The Order’s top-rated insurance program continues to do this today, as do the good works of individual Knights, illustrating how Catholics serve each other in fraternity and mercy, every day.
Patriotism
Members of the Knights of Columbus are patriotic citizens. We are proud of our devotion to God and country and believe in standing up for both. Whether it is in public or private, the Knights remind the world that Catholics support their country.
Prayer for the Canonization of Blessed Michael J. McGivney
God, our Father, protector of the poor and defender of the widow and orphan, you called your priest, Blessed Michael McGivney, to be an apostle of Christian family life and to lead the young to the generous service of their neighbor. Through the example of his life and virtue, may we follow your Son, Jesus Christ, more closely, fulfilling his commandment of charity and building up his Body which is the Church. Let the inspiration of your servant prompt us to greater confidence in your love so that we may continue his work of caring for the needy and the outcast. We humbly ask that you glorify Blessed Michael McGivney on earth according to the design of your holy will. Through his intercession, grant the favor I now present (here make your request).
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
