Our Fraternity
Fr. Michael J. McGivney's vision was to create a
Fraternal Society of Catholic men in the state of Connecticut that would
pay $5 per week for members who were sick and $1,000 dollar death
benefit once the order reached 1,000 members.
On October 2, 1881 the
first meeting held at St. Mary's in New Haven, Connecticut led by Fr.
Michael J. McGivney with about 80 men in attendance. The First
Headquarters were at the Law Offices of Driscol and Asher.
On February 2, 1882 the name, "Knights of Columbus", was adopted by
the Supreme Council. The first Supreme Knight was James T. Mullen and
the first Supreme Chaplain was Rev. Patrick Lawlor. Fr. Michael J.
McGivney served as the first Supreme Corresponding Secretary.
The Knights of Columbus is granted legal status as a corporation in
the state of Connecticut on March 29, 1882. Membership requirements were
a Catholic Man between the age of 18 and 50. Motto was Charity and
Unity. Council #1, named San Salvador, is formed in New Haven
Connecticut on May 15th.
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