Columbia February 2015

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K N I G H T S O F C O L U M BU S

F EBRUARY 2015

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Consecutive Years of Growth In 2014, the Knights of Columbus issued more life insurance than ever before in our history, and surpassed $96 billion of life insurance in force.

Thank you for trusting us to protect your family.

Find an agent at kofc.org or 1-800-345-5632 LIFE INSURANCE

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KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS fEbRuARy 2015 ♦ VolumE 95 ♦ NumbER 2

COLUMBIA

F E AT U R E S

8 The Pilgrimage of the Silver Rose A silver rose is carried by Knights to the feet of Our Lady of Guadalupe and presented to Pope Francis as a sign of unity.

BY ANDREW J. MATT

16 God at the Center Super Bowl champion Matt Birk discusses his Catholic faith and his mission as a husband, father and Knight.

BY SAM PATET

20 A Servant’s Heart Ricardo Sanvictores had the unique experience of working at the White House for seven U.S. presidents.

BY NADIA SMITH

24 The Aloha Spirit

Knights of Columbus Religious Heritage Art Collection – Virgin of Guadalupe (detail), Nicolás Enríquez (1704-1790)

Knights in Hawaii organize programs to provide food for the homeless and others in need.

BY DARLENE J. M. DELA CRUZ

As directed by Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Juan Diego collects roses blooming in winter on Tepeyac Hill to present to the bishop of Mexico.

An annual pilgrimage of the Knights of Columbus Silver Rose is conducted in honor of Our Lady today (see page 8).

D E PA RT M E N T S 3

Building a better world Under Our Lady’s maternal protection, we turn to the Holy Family as the perfect model of love and fidelity.

BY SUPREME KNIGHT CARL A. ANDERSON

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Learning the faith, living the faith The universal vocation to love, inspired by Christian hope, opens us and our families to divine life.

BY SUPREME CHAPLAIN ARCHBISHOP WILLIAM E. LORI

PLUS: Catholic Man of the Month

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Knights of Columbus News Pope Francis Receives Supreme Knight in Private Audience • Knights of Columbus Sets Insurance Record for 14th Consecutive Year • Order Charters Historic New Council in Washington, D.C. • Supreme Council Supports Local Connecticut Food Bank

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Fathers for Good You can turn your personal sacrifices during the penitential season of Lent into a gift for others.

BY BRIAN CAULFIELD

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Knights in Action

14 Building the Domestic Church Because love is fruitful and filled with hope, our family wants to cultivate a life-giving spirit.

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Our Plan and God’s IT HAS OFTEN been said, “If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans.” There is a tendency to want complete control over our lives, even amid unexpected twists and turns. This desire is especially strong in a world where technology promises countless solutions and instant gratification.

In the 17th century, Francis Bacon, the father of the scientific method, and René Descartes, the father of modern philosophy, revolutionized man’s understanding of himself in relation to the world. Knowledge was no longer seen primarily in terms of encountering and receiving truth, but in terms of power — of manipulating and mastering nature. Yet, we know that the human temptation to grasp control can be traced back much further, indeed, to the Garden of Eden itself.

Many prophets and leaders throughout Scripture show reluctance in the face of unexpected challenges from God. Though God answered his objections, Moses persisted, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh? … Suppose they do not believe me or listen to me?” (Ex 3:11, 4:1). There are some, however, whose wills are more inclined toward God’s mysterious plan. When the angel of the Lord told St. Joseph in dreams to take Mary into his home or to lead the Holy Family into Egypt, Joseph awoke and immediately obeyed the angel’s command (Mt 1:24, 2:14). Mary, of course, is our perfect model of faith, as her humble “yes” welcomed the Son of God into the world.

In the story of the Guadalupan event of 1531, St. Juan Diego was at first obedient when Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to him. But faced with his uncle’s illness, Juan Diego ignored Our Lady’s request to meet again and chose another route around Tepeyac Hill.

Still, Mary sought him out, assured him of his uncle’s recovery and directed him to collect roses miraculously blooming on the rocky hilltop. Inspired by this event, the Knights of Columbus conducts a silver rose pilgrimage each year in honor of Our Lady (see page 8).

The story of Juan Diego, who recognized his unworthiness when faced with God’s plan, helps to illustrate how we are entirely dependent on grace.

Our baptismal vocation is not something we choose for ourselves, but what Christ gives to us. Likewise, reconciliation is not something we earn, and holy Communion is not something we “take.” Each sacrament, like faith itself, is a pure gift that can only be received.

In a very real way, our greatest challenges and opportunities in life are those that we can never fully anticipate and control. Just ask Knights Matt Birk and Ricardo Sanvictores, whose remarkable careers came to them as a surprise (see pages 16, 20).

As they experienced personally, relinquishing control and following wherever God leads may involve great sacrifice. Paradoxically, it is also the path to freedom and joy.♦ ALTON J. PELOWSKI EDITOR

Our Lady of Guadalupe: Mother of the Civilization of Love In Our Lady of Guadalupe: Mother of the Civilization of Love (Doubleday, 2009), Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson and Msgr. Eduardo Chávez trace the history of the 16th-century apparitions that brought hope and unity to millions throughout the Americas. The authors further demonstrate how Our Lady of Guadalupe’s message speaks to contemporary issues confronting the American continent and continues to be a catalyst for conversion and cultural renewal.

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COLUMBIA PUBLISHER Knights of Columbus ________ SUPREME OFFICERS Carl A. Anderson SUPREME KNIGHT Most Rev. William E. Lori, S.T.D. SUPREME CHAPLAIN Logan T. Ludwig DEPUTY SUPREME KNIGHT Charles E. Maurer Jr. SUPREME SECRETARY Michael J. O’Connor SUPREME TREASURER John A. Marrella SUPREME ADVOCATE ________ EDITORIAL Alton J. Pelowski EDITOR Andrew J. Matt MANAGING EDITOR Patrick Scalisi SENIOR EDITOR ________

Venerable Michael McGivney (1852-90) Apostle to the Young, Protector of Christian Family Life and Founder of the Knights of Columbus, Intercede for Us. ________ HOW TO REACH US MAIL COLUMBIA 1 Columbus Plaza New Haven, CT 06510-3326 ADDRESS CHANGES 203-752-4210, option #3 OTHER INQUIRIES 203-752-4398 FAX 203-752-4109 CUSTOMER SERVICE 1-800-380-9995 E-MAIL columbia@kofc.org INTERNET kofc.org/columbia ________ Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to men 18 years of age or older who are practical (that is, practicing) Catholics in union with the Holy See. This means that an applicant or member accepts the teaching authority of the Catholic Church on matters of faith and morals, aspires to live in accord with the precepts of the Catholic Church, and is in good standing in the Catholic Church.

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Copyright © 2015 All rights reserved ________ ON THE COVER Pope Francis kisses the Knights of Columbus Silver Rose at the conclusion of Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica Dec. 12, 2014.

COVER: Photo by L’Osservatore Romano

E D I TO R I A L

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BUILDING A BETTER WORLD

Icon of Fairest Love Under Our Lady’s maternal protection, we turn to the Holy Family as the perfect model of love and fidelity

by Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson

IN THIS ISSUE of Columbia, we reOf course, this year as we prepare call an extraordinary event in the his- for the upcoming World Meeting of tory of the Knights of Columbus that Families with Pope Francis in occurred Dec. 12, 2014, the feast of Philadelphia, Our Lady of Guadalupe Our Lady of Guadalupe leads us to Our Lady of Guadalupe. On that day, has special importance for us. Families the Lord through a special concern for Msgr. Eduardo Chávez, a brother throughout the world need to hear families.

Knight and postulator of the cause for ever more clearly her message of hope, Mary also brings our families closer canonization of St. Juan Diego, pre- mercy and reconciliation. And they to the Holy Family, which St. John sented the Knights of Columbus Silver need to take to heart her message of Paul II described in his 1994 Letter to Rose to Pope Francis at the conclusion respect for the poor and indigenous Families as “the icon and model of of a Pontifical Mass celebrated in Our peoples of the world. every human family.”

Lady’s honor. Upon receiving Likewise, St. Paul dethe Silver Rose, the Holy Fascribed Christian family life ther kissed it and then placed as a “great mystery” (Eph Mary brings our families closer it before an image of Our 5:32). According to St. John Lady of Guadalupe at the high Paul II, it is because of their to the Holy Family, which altar of St. Peter’s Basilica. vocation to love that husSt. John Paul II described in his This occasion followed the bands and wives are intro55th running of the Silver “into the realm of this Letter to Families as “the icon and duced Rose, a pilgrimage that starts ‘great mystery,’” and it is prein Canada, proceeds through cisely here that their vocation model of every human family.” the United States and usually to love may reach fulfillment ends in Monterrey, Mexico. in what he calls “fairest love.”

This past year, however, brother During her fourth apparition in Here again, Mary is key.

Knights carried the rose all the way to December 1531, Our Lady described In his Letter to Families, St. John the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe Juan Diego as “my youngest son” and Paul II wrote, “Mary was the first to in Mexico City. It is a pilgrimage made told him not to fear. Then she said, enter this realm, and she introduced in honor of Mary, but it also expresses “Am I not here, I who have the honor her husband Joseph into it. Thus they the dedication of the Knights of to be your Mother? Are you not in my became the first models of that ‘fairest Columbus to St. John Paul II’s vision shadow and under my protection? Am love’ which the Church continually of greater unity throughout the West- I not the source of your joy? Are you implores for young people, husbands ern Hemisphere. not in the hollow of my mantle, in the and wives, and families.”

In all of this, we feel a special soli- crossing of my arms? Do you need Today, the challenges facing famidarity with Pope Francis, whose own something more?” lies seem to multiply faster than we devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe is Mary’s message is especially impor- can count. What better time, then, to extraordinary. Earlier on Dec. 12, I tant to us as we continue our new pro- turn again to Mary and the Holy had the privilege of personally dis- gram for families, “Building the Family to find that path by which cussing with the Holy Father the im- Domestic Church: The Family Fully each of our families may grow more portance of Our Lady of Guadalupe to Alive.” As the healing of Juan Diego’s fully alive? the Order’s mission. uncle Juan Bernardino makes clear, Vivat Jesus!

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LEARNING THE FAITH, LIVING THE FAITH

The Life-Giving Spirit The universal vocation to love, inspired by Christian hope, opens us and our families to divine life

by Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori NOT LONG AFTER my confirma- their son, of whose flaws and limitation, I came home and announced tions they are deeply aware. that I wanted to be a priest. If memory When a man and woman fall in love serves, I was in the fourth grade. In and marry, it is because they see the to do well in school, to make friends, spite of my youthful naïveté, my par- vocation to matrimony as a path to to find a job, and eventually to settle ents took my solemn pronouncement hope and happiness. Already their love down and find their calling in life. But seriously, and they were open to what- for one another is brimming with the Christian hope, perceiving the inadeever the Lord wanted. “If God wants promise of new life. They hope to see quacy and fragility of human attainyou to be a priest,” they said, “that’s their love for one another reflected in ments, also looks beyond earthly fine with us.” They didn’t push or pull, their sons and daughters — in their contentment and success. Pope Benebut they did encourage me to know children’s unique personalities and tal- dict XVI put it this way: “Whoever is and to do the Lord’s will. moved by love begins to perceive I will always be grateful for what ‘life’ really is. He begins to my parents’ receptivity to my perceive the meaning of the Christian married love takes vocation. From the fourth word hope that we encountered grade to my ordination, I had in the Baptismal Rite: from faith us beyond hopes and dreams a lot of growing up to do, and I await ‘eternal life’ — the true there were the inevitable life which, whole and unthreatconfined solely to this world. twists and turns that are part ened, in all its fullness, is simply of any vocational discernment life” (Spe Salvi, 27). process. Mom and dad were When a husband and wife are steady in their support while careful ents, indeed, in their very humanity. followers of the Lord and live their not to encroach on my freedom to re- They anticipate both the joys and faith in the midst of the Church, they spond to the Lord’s call. In their love challenges of helping their children see that “this is eternal life, that they for each other, my parents bestowed grow in body, mind and soul. And should know the only true God, and upon me a love that was life-giving. they look forward to one day having the one whom [he] sent, Jesus Christ” grandchildren and even great-grand- (John 17:3).

MARRIED LOVE children, or, as is the case with my parI’d like to think that, in the 38 years ents, “spiritual grandchildren.” Finally, ANCHORED IN HOPE of my priestly vocation, I’ve given my when a husband and wife truly love The new life that is bestowed upon us parents more than a few “spiritual one another and their children, they at baptism corresponds to the deepest grandchildren” — those whom I have seek to form families that will extend longing of our hearts for an everlasthad the privilege to touch with the gift themselves in loving service to others, ing, joy-filled love that does not falter of divine life through God’s grace and especially the poor and vulnerable. or fade away with the passage of time. mercy. And I can truly say that mom Christian married love, however, Amid our sufferings and joys, our atand dad’s hope and joy in my vocation takes us beyond hopes and dreams tainments and failures, even the drablie not in any position I hold in the confined solely to this world. A mar- ness of our daily routine, there is Church, but rather in the mysterious ried couple naturally wants their chil- something in our hearts crying out for workings of the Lord in and through dren to succeed in the worldly sense: something more lasting and satisfying.

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LEARNING THE FAITH, LIVING THE FAITH

It is nothing other than our desire to participate in God’s life and love.

In addressing this deep and persistent desire that wells up from the depths of our hearts, the Lord does not bypass our humanity or ignore our responsibility to construct a more humane society. Instead, he not only purifies our humanity of sin, he also enlarges its capacity for love. In sharing Christ’s life, our eyes are opened by the Holy Spirit to the faithful, enduring and life-giving love of God. That is precisely the life and love we are able to share with those around us.

HOLY FATHER’S PRAYER INTENTIONS

Offered in Solidarity with Pope Francis GENERAL: That prisoners, especially the young, may be able to rebuild lives of dignity.

POPE FRANCIS: CNS photo/Paul Haring

MISSION: That married people who are separated may find welcome and support in the Christian community.

In Christian marriage, a husband and wife are called to root their love for one another in Christ’s life and love. If they allow his love to purify and enlarge their love, then they begin to see their life together and their hopes for the future in a deeper, truer and more beautiful way. They begin to see themselves not only as partners in this life, but also as “ministers of hope” to one another, each engendering in the other an unshakable hope in the promise of life eternal (cf. Spe Salvi, 34).

Once their love is anchored in Christian hope, spouses will be free to

give themselves to each other and to God much more completely, including in times of suffering or hardship.

They will also be more open to whatever God may ask of them and also of their children. In this way, parents will be “ministers of hope” to their children.

A parish church should be a beacon of love and hope for all who pass by.

The family — a domestic church shaped by life-giving love — should likewise engender hope for those who are searching for deeper truth and love.♦

C AT H O L I C M A N O F T H E M O N T H

Justo Takayama Ukon (1552-1615) IN 1552 — the same year that St. Francis Xavier, the “Apostle of Japan,” died — Justo Takayama Ukon was born. The son of the samurai lord of Sawa Castle near Osaka, Ukon converted to Christianity and was baptized at age 12, together with his father, after an encounter with Jesuit missionaries.

As members of the Japanese nobility, the Takayama family used its position to evangelize, building the first Catholic church in Kyoto. As a samurai, however, Ukon was also forced to take up arms during the agitated period of civil war in 16th-century Japan.

In 1587, the powerful shogun Hideyoshi, whom Ukon had supported in several military campaigns, began to persecute Christians and ordered the expulsion of all foreign missionaries. After refusing to renounce his faith, Ukon was stripped of his rank and banished from his estates.

Having willingly chosen poverty with Christ over wealth and privilege, he served as a retainer to another Christian lord and sometimes came under the protection of aristocratic friends. All the while, Hideyoshi’s persecution of Christians increased, culminating in 1597

with the crucifixion of St. Paul Miki and 25 companions in Nagasaki.

When Christianity was banned in 1614, Ukon was given the choice to recant or be exiled. Together with a group of 300 Catholics, Ukon willingly set sail for Manila, where he received a warm welcome. The years of struggle, however, had taken a toll on Ukon’s health.

In 1615, just 40 days after his arrival in the Philippines, he fell ill and died. He was buried with full military honors.

The Bishops’ Conference of Japan sent Ukon’s cause for canonization to Rome in 2013, and Japanese Catholics eagerly await his beatification. Feb. 3 marks the 400th anniversary of his death.♦

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KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEWS

Pope Francis Receives Supreme Knight in Private Audience

On Dec. 12, 2014, the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, His Holiness Pope Francis received Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson in a private audience at the Vatican. On behalf of the Order, the supreme knight presented the pope with the annual proceeds from the Vicarius Christi Fund and an additional $400,000 for the Vatican’s Christian relief fund. The former was established in 1981 and has provided more than $54 million for the pope’s personal charities and causes.

THE KNIGHTS of Columbus recorded its 14th consecutive year of growth in insurance sales, with more than $8.2 billion in new life insurance sold and a new record of more than $96 billion of life insurance in force. These sales have led to an increase of nearly $50 billion over the past decade.

“In 133 years of operation, the Knights of Columbus has helped meet the spiritual and financial needs of Catholic families, while also serving the community through charitable works,” said Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson.

“We are pleased to have had great success on both of these fronts, which comes from our continued commitment to our founding mission of serving our neighbor consistent with Catholic social teaching. The continued growth in our insurance sales is a testament to our business model and to our close to 1,400 professional agents, who are the cornerstone of that model.”

Anderson explained that the record-breaking results mean that the Order has “helped its members to protect 6 ♦ COLUMBIA ♦

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their families while simultaneously enabling the Knights to support those most in need and the many works of the Catholic Church.”

The announcement of this latest insurance record concludes a year of milestones and accolades for the company. In March 2014, the Knights of Columbus was named one of the world’s most ethical companies by the Ethisphere Institute, an independent center for research promoting best practices in corporate ethics and governance.

In June, the Order retained its spot on the Fortune 1000 list and earned its 39th consecutive A++ (Superior) rating for financial strength — the highest rating available — from ratings agency A.M. Best.

The Knights enjoys a stalwart reputation for financial security, has one of the lowest lapse rates in the industry and offers a product line of life insurance, annuities, disability income and long-term care policies designed to meet the needs of Catholic families.♦

TOP: Photo by L’Osservatore Romano

Knights of Columbus Sets Insurance Record for 14th Consecutive Year

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KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS NEWS

Order Charters Historic New Council in Washington, D.C.

Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson joins members of Council 15723 to Washington, D.C., including State Deputy Ernest T. Boykin Jr., Charter (now Past) Grand Knight Harry Anderson, current Grand Knight Kenny Brown and Father Patrick Smith, pastor and council chaplain.

THIS PAST FALL, Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson presented a charter to St. Augustine Council 15723, located at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Washington, D.C. The presentation took place following a Mass celebrated

by Father Patrick Smith, council chaplain and pastor of St. Augustine, which is known as the “Mother Church of African American Catholics in the Nation’s Capital.”

In remarks after the Mass, which featured music by the renowned St. Augustine Gospel Choir, Supreme Knight Anderson reflected on the faith he witnessed in Haiti after

the earthquake of 2010.

“It brought home to me that spiritual strength does not depend upon affluence or material possessions,” the supreme knight said. “Christian discipleship depends upon people who have been able to walk through the valley and come out to the other side strengthened,” Anderson also urged the new council members to be willing to speak out in faith and to reach out in charity to their neighbors: “That’s what the Knights of Columbus is about.”♦

TOP: Photo by John Whitman — BOTTOM: Photo by Mike Ross

Supreme Council Supports Local Connecticut Food Bank NEEDY FAMILIES in Connecticut will have a bit more food on their tables this winter, thanks to the Knights of Columbus.

On Dec. 23, 2014, Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson presented a donation of $100,000 to Connecticut Food Bank, helping to provide meals to those in need during the Christmas season and beyond.

“With the cost of food rising and so many people struggling with hunger in our community, the Knights of Columbus is pleased to support the wonderful work of the Connecticut Food Bank,” the supreme knight said. “Helping others

in need here in Connecticut — and around the world — has been the mission of the Knights of Columbus for more than 130 years.”

For more than a decade, the Knight of Columbus has regularly supported Connecticut Food Bank with donations of food and funding, as well as volunteer support. Earlier this year, a gift of $20,000 was made to the food bank prior to Thanksgiving Day.♦

The Connecticut Food Bank’s mobile pantry is pictured in front of the Supreme Council Headquarters Dec. 23, 2014.

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The Pilgrimage of the Silver Rose A silver rose is carried by Knights to the feet of Our Lady of Guadalupe and presented to Pope Francis as a sign of unity

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n a powerful expression of Marian devotion and intercontinental unity, a Knights of Columbus Silver Rose was presented to Pope Francis at the conclusion of a Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica celebrated in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Dec. 12, 2014. Cardinal Norberto Rivera, archbishop of Mexico City and a member of the Knights, was among the concelebrants.

The Holy Father received the silver rose from Msgr. Eduardo Chávez, postulator of the cause for canonization of St. Juan Diego and a canon of the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City, at the symbolic culmination of the 55th annual Silver Rose program.

Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson, who was also present at the Mass with his wife, Dorian, and other K of C representatives, had asked Msgr. Chávez to present the rose to Pope Francis on behalf of the Order.

Since 1960, the Silver Rose program, originally called Operation Rose, has gathered Knights and Columbian Squires from Mexico, the United States and Canada under the mantle of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas. In the mid-1990s, it was adopted as a Supreme Council initiative, which grew to encompass multiple pilgrimage routes and reaffirm the Order’s commitment to the sanctity of human life (see historical sidebar).

Before arriving in Rome in December, the silver rose had undertaken a remarkable 9,000-mile pilgrimage. Starting in British Columbia April 27, 2014, Knights and Squires transported the rose south through the United States to El Paso, Texas, crossing the Mexican border into Ciudad Juárez Nov. 2. For the first time, a silver rose was brought not to the Old Basilica of Guadalupe in Monterrey, but to the Basilica of Our Lady of 8 ♦ COLUMBIA ♦

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Guadalupe in Mexico City, near the site of the apparitions to St. Juan Diego in December 1531.

On Nov. 30, the day after the rose’s arrival, pilgrims gathered to welcome the silver rose into the basilica. In a unique procession before Mass, the silver rose was carried along the same route that St. Juan Diego walked from his home in Tulpetlac to Tepeyac Hill. The rose then entered the basilica and was placed at the feet of the original image of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

On Dec. 7, another eucharistic celebration marked the silver rose’s departure for Rome, where it would be presented to Pope Francis at a pontifical Mass on the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

During his homily Dec. 12, Pope Francis recalled the events surrounding Our Lady of Guadalupe’s apparitions to St. Juan Diego. He called the Virgin Mary “the great missionary who brought the Gospel to our Americas” through her “visitation” as a pregnant mestiza, a woman of mixed race, on Mexico’s Tepeyac Hill.

“It was as though ‘a great sign appeared in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet,’” the pope added, quoting Revelation 12:1. “Taking upon herself the cultural and religious symbolism of the indigenous peoples, she proclaimed and gave her Son to all these new peoples.”

As a result of her encounters with the lay convert Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin and related events — including the winter roses she asked him to gather and the miraculous image that was imprinted on his tilma after he presented the roses to his bishop — an unprecedented cultural transformation took place.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Photo by L’Osservatore Romano

by Andrew J. Matt

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Pope Francis receives the silver rose from Msgr. Eduardo Chávez, postulator of the cause for canonization of St. Juan Diego, on the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Dec. 12, 2014.

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“Through her intercession,” Pope Francis said, “the Christian faith began to grow into the most precious treasure of the soul of the American peoples” and now “spans from Alaska to Patagonia.”

At the conclusion of Mass, Msgr. Chávez climbed the stairs leading to St. Peter’s high altar.

“It suddenly struck me like a bolt of lightning,” Msgr.

Chávez later recalled. “Am I going to bring this rose before

the Bishop of Rome like St. Juan Diego did with Bishop Juan de Zumárraga?”

Presenting the silver rose, Msgr. Chávez addressed Pope Francis: “Your Holiness, thanks to the Knights of Columbus, this silver rose has been taken on pilgrimage from Canada, the United States and Mexico; it has traveled to the Basilica of the Virgin of Guadalupe and has continued its pilgrimage

THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SILVER ROSE AND ITS ORIGINS THE INSPIRATION for the Silver Rose program originated in 1960 with a group of Columbian Squires from Monterrey, Mexico, who wanted to show their devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe in a unique and public way.

Their idea was ambitious: to organize an international relay race to transport a red rose 145 miles from the United States border at Laredo, Texas, to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Monterrey.

Under the sponsorship of Nuestra Señora de Monterrey Council 2312, the Squires of Fray Margil de Jesús Circle 660 drew up a detailed plan for this 10 ♦ C O L U M B I A ♦

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“athletic-religious event,” as they called it. Beginning Dec. 11, each Squire would run two miles, carrying the rose as a baton until they reached Monterrey 35 hours later on the Virgin of Guadalupe’s feast day and delivered the rose at her feet.

As the Squires’ enthusiasm gathered momentum, their international vision for the event also grew. They soon asked Miguel Martínez Estrada, the general program chairman of Council 2312, to write to William Piedmont, director of the Columbian Squires at the Supreme Council, explaining their plan and ask-

ing that Squire circles in the United States participate symbolically in the “Primera Gran Carrera Internacional de la Rosa Guadalupana” (the “First Grand International Relay Race of the Guadalupan Rose”).

In a letter to Piedmont dated Nov. 5, 1960, Estrada extended an invitation to all U.S. Squires circles to “deliver to Laredo, Texas, a rose as a symbol of international fraternal friendship under the patronage of the Virgin of Guadalupe, ‘Patroness of America.’”

Estrada concluded: “We hope this activity will strengthen the fraternal bonds of

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Opposite page: Msgr. Chávez addresses the faithful during Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City Nov. 30, 2014, as Mexican Knights stand at attention beside the silver rose. • Above: Pope Francis places the silver rose at the feet of an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe during the Dec. 12 Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. • Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson is pictured with Msgr. Chávez following Mass.

SILVER ROSE: Knights of Columbus Multimedia Archives — POPE FRANCIS: L’Osservatore Romano

here to Rome. This rose has collected the sadness and suffering, the pain and weariness of so many of our brothers and sisters, but also their joys and hopes. It is true, Holy Father, God wished to come live among us through Holy Mary of Guadalupe, and this rose is the sign. Please receive it.”

Pope Francis then smiled and kissed the rose. He said “yes” with a nod of his head and then asked Msgr. Chávez to pray for him.

friendship between the circles of the U.S.A. and the circle of Monterrey.”

Piedmont was delighted with the plan.

To enhance its international character even more, however, he made one key recommendation: Canadian Squires should also be invited to participate.

Estrada was thrilled and thanked the director “for your wonderful idea to join Canadian Squires in this activity,” for in doing so “we join, through you and the Supreme Council, the veneration of the American, Canadian and Monterrey Squires to Our Lady of Guadalupe.”

Thus was born a unique Marian initiative destined to strengthen not only the Order’s sense of fraternal unity, but also

“The smile of Pope Francis was incredible,” Msgr. Chávez later said, reflecting on the encounter. “I will never forget his smile, his kissing of the silver rose, and how he looked at me.

His eyes were wide open, especially when he understood that the words I had spoken were reminiscent of St. Juan Diego’s own words.”♦ ANDREW J. MATT is managing editor of Columbia.

the bonds of cooperation and solidarity across the continent.

The Canadian Squires were soon energized and embraced the “race” with gusto. “Operation Rose,” as it came to be known, began Dec. 8, the feast of the

Immaculate Conception, when Squires from Brockville, Ontario, presented a red rose to Squires from Ogdensburg, N.Y., at the midpoint of the newly opened International Bridge connecting the United States with Canada. The rose was then flown the next day to New York City via Newark and on to Laredo, Texas, where a delegation of K of C leaders presented the rose to the Mexican Squires.

The relay race by foot began Dec. 10 on the America-Mexican border at the center of the Gateway to the Americas International Bridge, with Mexican police and the Red Cross accompanying the runners along the final leg of the FEBRUARY 2015

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while, a silver rose, made in Monterrey and blessed by Archbishop Espino y Silva, was sent to the Knights of Columbus headquarters in New Haven, Conn.

The two roses were then transferred by delegations of Columbian Squires and Knights into the personal custody of Supreme Knight Luke E. Hart, who carried the two roses from New York to Dallas. District officers in Texas relayed the roses to Laredo, and Squires and Knights from Laredo Council 2304 formally presented them to the Squires of Monter-

The February 1962 issue of Columbian Squires features a photo of Supreme Knight Luke E. Hart and Cardinal Francis Spellman, archbishop of New York, holding the Order’s first silver rose. rey Circle 660 at the midpoint of the International Bridge. Again, the footrace began Dec. 10 and concluded on the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Monterrey.

Beginning in 1963, Operation Rose featured a single silver rose and followed the same trans-American itinerary. Each rose was kept at the basilica in Monter-

Knights of Columbus Multimedia Archives

route. After traveling some 2,600 miles from start to finish, the rose arrived in Monterrey Dec. 12, 1960. Archbishop Alfonso Espino y Silva received the rose in the basilica and concluded the international event with a solemn Mass for Squires, Knights and their families in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

With the success of the inaugural Operation Rose, Squires from Mexico, the United States and Canada were eager to run the relay race again in 1961. Since the original rose had withered and could not be used again, two roses were fashioned for the second event. A bronze rose, crafted in London, Ontario, and blessed there by Bishop John Cody Dec. 8, began the first phase of the event when it was flown to New York. Mean-

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Above: Supreme Knight Luke E. Hart presents the silver rose to Texas State Deputy Jack Collerain at the Dallas Airport in December 1961.

TOP: Photo courtesy of the Catholic Archives of Texas

Opposite page, clockwise from top: Columbian Squire Ed Gunter Jr. of Austin (Texas) Circle 402 receives the original red rose that was used in the inaugural “Operation Rose” at Laredo Airport Dec. 9, 1960. • With the red rose in hand, Squires Counselor Pedro Gómez, wearing a Red Cross uniform, runs the last leg of Operation Rose with Alberto Jesús García and Salvador García of Monterrey Circle 660 Dec. 12, 1960. • Bishop John Cody of London, Ontario, blesses the bronze rose. • A color guard of Canadian Squires and an honor guard of Fourth Degree Knights are pictured with the bronze rose at the London, Ontario, airport in December 1961.

rey, tangible signs of a tradition symbolizing fraternity and unity shared by the three countries.

The fifth running of the rose attracted worldwide attention because the rose was sent to Rome where it was presented to Pope Paul VI for his blessing Nov. 29, 1964. It was then transported to Laredo and carried into Monterrey. In 1968, the rose made a similar detour when it was sent to Bogotá, Colombia, so that Pope Paul VI could bless it during his August visit to that city.

For the next several decades, Knights and Squires from Mexico and Texas, including Fourth Degree assemblies in Our Lady of Guadalupe Province, were largely responsible for keeping the Silver Rose tradition alive.

In the 1990s, Supreme Knight Virgil C. Dechant adopted the Silver Rose program as a Supreme Council initiative, which eventually grew to encompass three silver roses traveling simultaneously on separate routes, making frequent stops along the way. Parishes, shrines and council halls hosted prayer services in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe, often accompanied by Fourth Degree honor guards. The first silver rose began in Ontario and moved through the central United States. Another started in Manitoba, traveling down the Pacific coast.

The third began in New York and moved down the eastern seaboard. After meeting in Laredo, all three roses were transferred to Mexico for a closing Mass at the basilica in Monterrey Dec. 12.

In 2001, Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson expanded the program as a culture of life initiative by beginning the “Running of the Rose” from the 119th Supreme Convention in Toronto.

“We honor not only Our Lady of Guadalupe and express the unity of the Order,” the supreme knight said, “but we also reaffirm the Order’s dedication to the sanctity of human life. It is to the Blessed Mother that we turn in prayer as we work to end the culture of death that grips our society.”

The number of simultaneously running routes increased from three to four in 2012, and from four to five in 2013.

The 2014 program included six routes, culminating in the presentation of a silver rose to Pope Francis in Rome Dec. 12.♦ FEBRUARY 2015

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BU I L D I N G T H E D O M E S T I C C H U RC H

FEBRUARY Because love is fruitful and filled with hope, our family wants to cultivate a life-giving spirit.

IN A PARTICULAR WAY, a husband and wife see the fruit of their lives in their children. But the vocation to fruitfulness is greater than this. Even if a person cannot have children, his or her love is called to be fruitful. The love that we express amid prayer, work, rest, family life, and all of our daily activities is called to generate new life in others, proclaiming through our actions the great hope of our Lord Jesus Christ. The vocations to religious life and priesthood are unique signs of this fruitfulness to which each of us — whatever our state in life — is called.

Bring Song Into Your Home

Family Project To celebrate the life-giving spirit of your family, prepare a slideshow that illustrates the ways your family is fruitful.

In the slideshow, include pictures of: • Parents’ courtship and engagement • Parents’ wedding celebration • Birth of each child • Sacramental celebrations of each child • Friends, service projects, fun times • Vocations in the family

Psalm of the Month (Psalm 139:1-7) Pray the Psalm of the Month during every Sunday of the month at your family prayer space. On the last Sunday of the month, discuss as a family which verse stood out most for each member.

LORD, you have probed me, you know me: you know when I sit and stand; you understand my thoughts from afar.

You sift through my travels and my rest; with all my ways you are familiar.

Even before a word is on my tongue, LORD, you know it all.

Behind and before you encircle me and rest your hand upon me.

Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, far too lofty for me to reach.

Where can I go from your spirit?

From your presence, where can I flee?

Council-Wide Event: Movie Night February’s movie recommendation is The Incredibles. Before the movie begins, ask your families to share their family slideshows.

THIS IS THE FOURTH MONTH OF BUILDING THE DOMESTIC CHURCH: THE FAMILY FULLY ALIVE, A K OF C INITIATIVE FOR FAMILIES. 14 ♦ C O L U M B I A ♦

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Magnificat My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.

From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.

He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation.

He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit.

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly.

He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty.

He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever.

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BU I L D I N G T H E D O M E S T I C C H U RC H

Volunteering Together Project: Global Wheelchair Mission INVITE FAMILIES to participate in fund-raising efforts to help provide wheelchairs to those in need through the Global Wheelchair Mission. The organization’s two branches, the American Wheelchair Mission and the Canadian Wheelchair Foundation, partner with the Knights of Columbus to provide the gift of mobility to people with physical disabilities. Since 2003, the Order has provided nearly 50,000 wheelchairs to worthy recipients in approximately 20 countries around the world.

First, determine what the council’s annual contribution to the initiative will be, setting a goal of a specific dollar amount, a specific number of wheelchairs, etc. Then, schedule fund-raising events and ask your volunteer families to help promote the goal to council and parish members, encouraging individual contributions.

Work with other parish groups and civic organizations in your community to organize joint efforts to support the Global Wheelchair Mission. Discuss whether there is a particular country or location that you would like to

Above: Knights and Global Wheelchair Mission representatives wave following a distribution in Guanajuato, Mexico. • Below: Fritz, a wheelchair recipient in Haiti, smiles as he experiences the freedom of mobility that a wheelchair can bring. support with a distribution.

For more information, visit kofc.org/wheelchair.

Meditation Whoever is moved by love begins to perceive what “life” really is. He begins to perceive the meaning of the word of hope that we encountered in the Baptismal Rite: from faith I await “eternal life” — the true life which, whole and unthreatened, in all its fullness, is simply life. Jesus, who said that he had come so that we might have life and have it in its fullness, in abundance, has also explained to us what “life” means: “this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent” (Jn 17:3). Life in its true sense is not something we have exclusively in or from ourselves: it is a relationship. And life in its totality is a relationship with him who is the source of life. If we are in relation with him who does not die, who is Life itself and Love itself, then we are in life. Then we “live.”

— Pope Benedict XVI, Spe Salvi, 7

Photos by Randy Hale

Questions for Reflection 1. How would our family life be different if we did not love at all?

2. In what areas has the faith and God’s love shown me how to love?

3. Why is living in relationship with God so important to really “living”?

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND A COMPLETE LIST OF MONTHLY THEMES AND MEDITATIONS, VISIT KOFC.ORG/DOMESTICCHURCH. FEBRUARY 2015

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GOD AT THE CENTER Super Bowl champion Matt Birk discusses his Catholic faith and his mission as a husband, father and Knight

by Sam Patet

W

hen Matt Birk was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1998, he could hardly believe it. A graduate of Harvard University with a degree in economics, he knew it was rare for an Ivy League player to get a chance to play in the NFL. And unlike many of his teammates, he had only been playing football since his sophomore year of high school. If he wanted to make it past training camp, he would have to work and play harder than everyone else.

Two years later, Birk took over as starting center for the Vikings and played 227 games during his 15 years in professional football. He received the Walter Peyton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2011 and, in the final game of his career, helped the Baltimore Ravens win Super Bowl XLVII in February 2013.

Birk, though, isn’t just a champion when it comes to football.

He’s also a champion of the Catholic faith and has given dozens of talks at Catholic events across the country. He has been a fearless defender of the sanctity of marriage, and he and his wife have been steadfast supporters of the pro-life movement for more than a decade.

In February 2014, a year after his retirement, Birk published a book titled All-Pro Wisdom: The 7 Choices That Lead to Greatness. In March, he filled out a Form 100 and became a member of Father Lucien Galtier Council 4184 in West St. Paul, Minn.

After moving to Connecticut with his wife and six children, Birk now works in New York City as director of football development for the NFL. Last fall, Birk spoke with Columbia correspondent Sam Patet about his time in the NFL, the relationship between sports and character development, and the role of the Knights of Columbus today.

COLUMBIA: Was the Catholic faith an important part of your life growing up?

MATT BIRK: My parents are devout Catholics, and they did a lot of things — maybe did everything they could — to make sure that I grew up to love the faith. But I didn’t love it right away. It was a gift, and like a lot of gifts, I didn’t appreciate it.

When I was in college, the world was telling me I was doing really, really well. And then I got to the NFL, where I continued to put God and my faith on hold. I started having crazy success in football, but I wasn’t satisfied. Maybe I was happy, but I didn’t have joy.

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So, I went on a bit of a journey. People don’t realize football is a very spiritual game for a lot of guys. It’s so intense, and the stakes are high by worldly standards. The highs are really high, but the lows are really low. So a lot of guys are forced to go inside to try to figure it out.

I think every Catholic probably goes through a time in their life where they have to claim their faith as their own. I’m not a finished product yet, but it took me until my mid- to late-20s to do that.

COLUMBIA: Was there a person or event that inspired you to practice your faith with greater conviction?

MATT BIRK: First and foremost my wife. When you’re playing football, it’s all about you — everybody is telling you it’s all about you. When I got married and started having kids, that’s when I realized, “It’s not about me.” My wife has a great way about her, a great spirit about her. She’s very kind and generous and charitable. It makes you start thinking about what kind of man, what kind of husband, what kind of father you want to be. In order to fulfill those responsibilities, I had to cling to the faith and immerse myself in it. And it’s the best thing I ever did. I don’t know how I went so long without it, without being intentional about growing in my faith.

I also had four guys in my life who helped get me back into my faith. I would call them hall of fame Catholics. Each one made me say to myself, “Whoa. I want to be like him. Everything about him, I want to be like that guy. What’s he about?”

For them, it started with being Catholic.

COLUMBIA: Did you see a difference in your NFL career before and after you had your conversion experience?

MATT BIRK: I was just a lot more content and more at ease.

When I say it’s intense, I never slept through the night. You’re always on edge. You’re always thinking, “How am I getting better today?” You can never do enough, because you’re defining yourself by your performance, and your performance isn’t always going to be there. You’re going to have good days and bad days.

But as I started to reclaim my faith, there was such a calming influence because my perspective was correct. Whether we won or lost wasn’t the most important thing in the world.

It was all about putting forth a great, high-quality effort, using

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Former Baltimore Ravens center Matt Birk is pictured at training camp Aug. 5, 2009. A member of Father Lucien Galtier Council 4184 in St. Paul, Minn., Birk now works as director of development for the NFL.

Photo by Jeff Weese

the gifts that God gave me, using my talents. I saw that my identity started with my faith. That’s who I was, and it all flowed from there.

Did I work just as hard? Absolutely. But my perspective was 180 degrees different.

COLUMBIA: Some Americans don’t have a very positive view about professional athletes, but for your book, you interviewed NFL players and coaches who take God seriously. Are these God- and family-centered players more common than we realize?

MATT BIRK: The NFL has men that put God first and men that put their families first. It also has men that make mistakes.

Those guys are no different than anybody else. But we build these guys up to be like superheroes, and we hold them to the expectation of almost perfection — professionally and personally. And when they do slip up, we love to point fingers.

There are a lot of great, great men in the NFL. I think that’s the case because football is a very hard game to play. The same is true for other professional sports; you put so much into it,

and there’s so much at stake. You push yourself beyond what you think your limits are, and in order to do that, you’re looking for strength beyond yourself. Where do you find this? It’s how a lot of guys end up turning to God. One of the greatest phrases I ever heard was an old coach talking about football. He said, “This game and the NFL, it’s a brutal business. It will bring you to your knees, so why not start there every day?”

COLUMBIA: Sports sometimes seem to be a new god in our society. Are sports and the faith opposed to one another?

MATT BIRK: Are they mutually exclusive? No, they don’t have to be. I look at football as being a lot more than about football; it’s about life. It’s a very effective tool for developing character. When you’re talking about integrity, hard work and discipline, we can use sports to teach those things.

I’ve never heard anybody say, “We have too many people with character going around.” We need more of that — we need people of character in our communities, in our businesses and certainly in our politics.

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Matt and Adrianna Birk are pictured together with their six children on a Florida beach in November 2014.

COLUMBIA: You became a Knight of Columbus in March 2014. What got you to take the plunge?

MATT BIRK: I spoke at a Catholic men’s conference in Phoenix in March. At one point during the day, a guy who worked for the diocese asked the 1,200 men attending, “If you’re not a Knight of Columbus, why not?” And I thought, “Yeah, he’s right: Why not?” And it kind of stuck with me.

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So, when an acquaintance from my work in the pro-life movement later called me up and asked me to join the Knights, I said, “Yeah. Come over.”

To me, the Knights are men of action. It’s nice if people hear me talk about Jesus, but it’s more important that they see God in me and in how I live my life and in the things that I do. The Knights were founded to take care of widows and children, people who couldn’t take care of themselves. That’s our faith brought to life.

COLUMBIA: As members of the Knights of Columbus face the challenges of living God- and family-centered lives in an increasingly secular society, what advice would you give them?

MATT BIRK: Always keep the fundamentals close. I’m talking about the fundamentals of our faith: Sunday Mass, confession, prayer, study. That’s our best chance to become the men that God wants us to be, to be the fathers and the husbands that we’re supposed to be.

And as Knights, we can draw a lot of strength from being part of a community. We’re almost 2 million strong worldwide.

We can draw a lot of strength from that. As Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” As Catholic men, we need to spend time with other Catholic men who will help us grow.♦ SAM PATET is a reporter with The Prairie Catholic newspaper for the Diocese of New Ulm. He is a member of St. Patrick’s Council 1076 in New Ulm, Minn.

Photo by MissyK Photography

COLUMBIA: What’s it like for you and your wife to raise six children, who are all under the age of 12?

MATT BIRK: It’s very humbling, but very rewarding. As any parent will tell you, it’s the hardest job there is, but it’s the job with the most at stake.

When you retire, people really don’t care about you as a football player anymore. No matter how good you were, it doesn’t matter. And you know what? That’s great; that’s how it should be. Football isn’t who I am or who I was. But being a father, that’s the part of my legacy that I actually care about. Being entrusted with six kids — to raise them in the faith and be the shepherd of their hearts — that’s a major responsibility; that’s a job that’s too important to fail.

Our faith and our culture are at odds. I don’t want to shelter my kids, because I don’t think that’s healthy, but at the same time, I’m not going to take the governor cap off. A lot of it’s really about scheduling time, doing things like going to confession, saying the rosary, reading the Bible at home. If you’re not intentional about it, you fall off the track. Every day, I pray for wisdom and endurance and try to raise them the right way.

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FAT H E R S F O R G O O D

Love for Lent You can turn your personal sacrifices during the penitential season of Lent into a gift for others

by Brian Caulfield

CNS photo/Octavio Duran

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e often think of Christmas as a season for giving and Lent as a time for giving up. The tree with gifts underneath is a symbol for one season; a candy bar or a cup of coffee with a red “X” over it could be symbols for the other.

Nonetheless, the practices of giving and giving up can merge and shed light on one other when each is done in a spirit of personal charity. To give a gift from the heart is really to give up something of one’s self, while giving up something for Lent can and should be a form of a self-gift — to God and neighbor.

With Lent beginning this month, here are three ways that you can give up something and at the same time offer a gift to someone in need. Fathers may even find in these practices some new traditions for their families.

Give to Charity. If you are taking the familiar Lenten path and giving up sweets, coffee or some other favorite food, go an extra step and donate the money saved to a worthy charity. It could be to a local food pantry, a pregnancy resource center or your weekly parish offering. In this way, the full meaning of sacrifice will become more apparent to you and your children. The fact is, giving up something can sometimes lead us to focus more on our own effort than on the spirit of humility and sacrifice. By giving away the money you save from cutting out desserts, it will be easier to focus on others rather than yourself.

Give Time. For some, money can be an easy gift and may even be a way to feel good while keeping needy people at a distance. Ask for money for a good cause and you’ll have many donors. Ask for a few hours of time and the line will get shorter, since time and effort exact something directly from a person. This Lent, rather than (or in addition to) giving money to charity, spend some hours serving at a soup kitchen, bringing meals to the homebound, or visiting residents at a nearby nursing home or veterans facility just to cheer them up. Bring your children with you

to teach them that a personal encounter with someone in need can be more valuable than writing a check.

Give Example. You may not think about it this way, but your faith is the greatest gift you can give to someone. You may be hesitant to talk about your faith, but your example of daily Catholic living can be a powerful witness and a form of evangelization.

For fathers especially, living out your faith in a conscious, consistent manner is a vital example for your children. More often than not, a father’s religious practice or lack thereof becomes the practice or non-practice of his children. Mom can bring the kids to Mass every Sunday and teach them their prayers, but if the father is not there, chances are high that a child will drift away from the Church.

The large numbers of former Catholics in the North America and elsewhere indicate that fathers often fall short in their obligation to pass on the faith. We dads need to bring our kids to Mass, kneel with them in prayer, talk about the joy and meaning that our faith in Christ gives to our lives, and become spiritual leaders of our families.

Our instinct to protect must also reach beyond the physical harm that our children can suffer and into the more important and pervasive moral and spiritual dangers that they face within our culture. Limiting the use of social media or TV during Lent is another great way to give up something while giving your family the gift of your presence and attention.

As we approach Ash Wednesday, whatever you choose to do or not do should be summed up in these few words: Give and receive love for Lent.♦ BRIAN CAULFIELD is editor of the website Fathers for Good and vice-postulator of the cause for canonization of Father Michael McGivney.

FIND ADDITIONAL ARTICLES AND RESOURCES FOR CATHOLIC MEN AND THEIR FAMILIES AT FATHERSFORGOOD. ORG .

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Servant’s Heart

Ricardo Sanvictores had the unique experience of working at the White House for seven U.S. presidents

by Nadia Smith

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naval admiral and seven U.S. presidents have described U.S. officials. At age 24, Sanvictores was sent to work for him variously as “trustworthy,” “loyal” and “dedicated” Adm. John S. McCain Jr. in Little Creek, Va., where he be— and they all spoke from firsthand experience. Ricardo came part of the admiral’s household staff and, later, his perSanvictores, whom they commonly addressed as “Sam,” sonal travel assistant. served each of them closely during his 45-year career as a “I took care of his clothes, his meals, ran his errands,” Sanvalet and butler. victores recalled. “When we traveled and he went out at night, Following his retirement from service at the White House, I’d stay in his room to protect all his valuables, especially his Sanvictores moved to North Port, Fla., papers and sensitive materials. If there with his wife, Carmen, in 2006. Havwas an emergency, I was the one sent ing been a devoted servant most of his in to wake him up.” life, 76-year-old Sanvictores, a Fourth Sanvictores was on hand in 1967 Degree Knight, now dedicates much of when the admiral received word that HEY KNEW OF THE his time as a member of North Port his son, Lt. Cmd. John S. McCain III, Council 7997. was shot down over Vietnam. The fuSACRIFICE WE WERE An unassuming, gentle soul, he ture presidential candidate and longMAKING AS A FAMILY FOR rarely speaks openly about his past actime senator from Arizona was a complishments, but his wife proudly prisoner of war for nearly six years.

HIM TO BE THERE TO keeps track of every presidential letter “It was a very hard time,” Sanvicand award he’s received and promitores said. “He was really sad and asked SERVE THEM.” nently displays photos of her husband’s that I pray for his son. I knew the White House career in their home. whole family — the kids and the grandkids. After so many years of STEWARD TO ADMIRAL MCCAIN working for the same family, they too Born and raised in the Philippines, Sanvictores attended Far became like family. They entrusted me with so much.”

Eastern University in Manila, where he earned a degree in The great respect he had for Adm. McCain was mutual. commerce and business administration. After graduation, he Upon his retirement, the admiral recommended Sanvictores decided to enlist in the U.S. Navy. for a position at the White House.

“Life was hard in the Philippines,” he said. “Jobs weren’t “The outstanding standard of performance you have set will good, so most everybody tried to join the Navy because the serve as a fine example to all, and is the principal reason why United States was recruiting there in 1960.”

I consider it a personal pleasure to have served with you,” At the time, the Philippines was a central hub for U.S. mil- wrote Adm. McCain at the time. itary operations in the Asia-Pacific region, and the United Working for the admiral meant that Sanvictores already had States had a prominent naval base named Sangley Point, lo- the necessary security clearance, so his path to Pennsylvania cated southwest of Manila.

Avenue seemed to have been prepared in advance, even if it “When I enlisted I didn’t know what I’d do,” Sanvictores was unexpected. said. “We had to take an exam to see where we would be best A natural diplomat, Sanvictores never found it an issue to suited.” serve presidents from either party with the same dedication, For him, that meant working as a steward to high-ranking loyalty and friendship.

“T

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Photos courtesy of Ricardo Sanvictores

Clockwise from top: Ricardo Sanvictores, a member of North Port (Fla.) Council 7997, is pictured in 1993 with four of the seven presidents whom he served. From left: President Jimmy Carter, President George H.W. Bush, President Bill Clinton and President Gerald Ford. • President Ronald Reagan shakes Sanvictores’ hand at the White House in January 1983. • Adm. John S. McCain Jr. stands next to Sanvictores, his wife, Carmen, and two of their three children, Ricardo Jr. and Sarah, Nov. 26, 1968.

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“We don’t do politics; we just do our job,” Sanvictores said.

“It’s not our business, even if we have our own opinions. I just do my job and that’s it.”

Still, his decades of service and travel with the presidents were more than just a job, since he became invested in each of their lives. He has nothing negative to say about any of the presidents he served, since he was close to them all.

WHITE HOUSE SERVICE At the start of his White House career, Sanvictores arrived during the last three months of President Richard Nixon’s term, before his resignation in the wake of the Watergate scandal. As a result, Nixon is the president that Sanvictores knew the least.

However, he came to know President Gerald Ford very well.

“I started working as a valet for him,” Sanvictores said.

“Those who worked for him found out that I had worked for Adm. McCain, so they made me his assistant.”

As the president’s personal attendant, Sanvictores did whatever Ford asked of him — from prepping his clothes to bringing his meals, and everything in between. Sanvictores also accompanied President Ford and his family on vacations to Vale, Colo., and said the president loved to ski.

From firsthand experience, he learned similar facts about each of the presidents he served.

According to Sanvictores, President Jimmy Carter was a quiet, hard worker. “When he was working in his library, no one was able to disturb him — except me,” he said.

President Carter, he added, was in the Oval Office by 5 a.m., and Sanvictores would be there waiting to serve him. Most days, Sanvictores did not return home until after dinner, and if there were any parties at the White House, his workday lasted until midnight.

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Sanvictores then served throughout the two-term presidency of Ronald Reagan, whom he described, along with First Lady Nancy, as “sociable and friendly.”

“President Reagan was something else,” Sanvictores added.

“He was very charismatic — a natural.”

Carmen Sanvictores recalled that President Reagan would often say of her husband, “He always makes me look good.”

President George H.W. Bush was the last president that Sanvictores served as a personal valet.

Sanvictores has fond memories of playing horseshoes with Bush, who hosted an annual tournament at the White House and often played at his vacation home in Kennebunkport, Maine.

When he left office, President Bush wrote to Sanvictores saying, “To say that we still miss you is the classic understatement of the year. We will always be grateful for all that you did to make us so happy in those challenging, wonderful days.”

After 30 years of service, Sanvictores retired from the Navy in 1990 as a master chief petty officer, the highest rank of an enlisted sailor.

But Sanvictores’ White House career wasn’t quite over. He applied for a civilian job as the White House butler and served President Bill Clinton in that capacity.

“In some ways it was a much easier job,” Sanvictores recalled. “As a butler I only took care of serving meals and setting up for parties — but President Clinton had a lot of parties.”

Sanvictores retired as the White House butler two years into President George W. Bush’s presidency in 2003, but because the staff would often call him for help, he stayed on an additional two years as the part-time butler until permanently leaving the White House in 2005.

He already knew the Bush family because of his work for the senior George Bush and appreciated how they, like the other presidential families, were very “normal and down-toearth.”

Carmen Sanvictores recalled that the president would joke with her husband, saying, “Imagine, you served seven presidents and you still look good.”

To this day, the Sanvictores still visit with the Bushes, who invite them to their vacation home in nearby Boca Grande, Fla., every year.

Photo courtesy of Ricardo Sanvictores

President George H.W. Bush pins a Navy Commendation Medal on Sanvictores during a White House ceremony Sept. 5, 1990.

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Photo by Brian Tietz

Sanvictores stands with his wife, Carmen, in front of their home in North Port, Fla., in December 2014.

SACRIFICE AND DEDICATION There is no question that Sanvictores’ years of service took a toll on his family life. Working at the White House sometimes caused tension with his wife, Carmen, as the brunt of raising their three children fell squarely on her shoulders.

“With God’s help our marriage survived and our family remained intact,” Sanvictores said. “My only regret was not seeing my kids grow.”

Over the decades, the presidents each expressed gratitude to Carmen for understanding the demands of her husband’s work. “They knew of the sacrifice we were making as a family for him to be there to serve them,” she said.

“Prayers can move mountains,” Carmen added. “It’s true that a family that prays together stays together. To this day we are all close.”

The couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in January, and Sanvictores also celebrated 50 years of being Catholic. Raised Methodist, his decision to become Catholic was partly due to his wife, but he also felt comfortable with the Catholic Church since most of his family and friends were

Catholic. It was the Eucharist, the sacraments and the Blessed Mother that kept him strong in the faith.

Now his wife jokes, “He’s more Catholic than me!”

The same dedication he gave to the White House, Sanvictores now gives to the Knight of Columbus. He first joined the Order in 1988, during the Reagan administration, and became a Fourth Degree member in 2007. A charter member of San Pedro Assembly 3163, he has served as the treasurer for North Port Council 7997 for the past seven years.

“He’s so busy with the Knights now, it’s like he’s back at the White House,” Carmen said.

As far as Sanvictores is concerned, his Catholic faith continues to guide him, praying the rosary daily as he carries out his tasks, just as he did during those busy years in Washington, D.C. “Without prayer and faith in God we wouldn’t have what we have,” he said.♦ NADIA SMITH is a correspondent for the Florida Catholic, the newspaper of the Diocese of Venice.

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The Aloha Spirit Knights in Hawaii organize programs to provide food for the homeless and others in need

by Darlene J. M. Dela Cruz | photos by Michelle Scotti

O

n a sunny 80-degree “winter” day last December on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, Knights of Columbus from Bishop James J. Sweeney Council 11485 gathered at Sacred Heart Church in Waianae to help tackle a growing problem hidden behind Hawaii’s beauty: hunger and homelessness.

Rising costs of living and other socioeconomic factors have left many people on the islands struggling for food and shelter. Sacred Heart Church lies in a part of Oahu where increasing numbers of homeless people have, in recent years, been finding refuge in tents on public beaches and roadsides.

To address this problem, Council 11485 has teamed up with the outreach ministry at Sacred Heart Church to host weekly food distributions for the needy. These events, held almost every Tuesday, give parish volunteers and Knights from Sacred Heart and from St. Rita Church, in the neighboring town of Nanakuli, a chance to share the “spirit of aloha” — peace, compassion and charity — in a very special way.

Aiding the hungry and homeless is likewise an expression of the Hawaiian “ohana” — or family — spirit, and Knights throughout the islands have been engaged in innovative work toward this cause.

‘A TIME FOR GIFTS’ Gilbert “Gil” Jose of Council 11485 spearheads the Sacred Heart Church outreach initiative. On the morning of Dec. 9, 2014, Jose was at the parish bright and early, greeting guests, organizing volunteers, setting up tents and figuring out logistics for the day’s delivery of rations from the Hawaii Food Bank.

“I love to mingle with the crowd and see how they’re doing,” Jose said. “I get worried sometimes that there won’t be enough volunteers, but everybody comes out again and it turns out all right.”

Involved with parish outreach since 2005, Jose expanded the operation in 2009 at the request of Sacred Heart’s former pastor, Father Carmelo Rey Lim. As a first step, Jose went to the Hawaii Food Bank to inquire about the process of creating a comprehensive and effective food distribution program. He learned the state and federal regulations for homelessness outreach, including policies on discrimination and health requirements. Afterward, Jose worked to find space on the small Sacred 24 ♦ C O L U M B I A ♦

FEBRUARY 2015

Heart Church property where food could be stored properly in ample supply. He and volunteers created a well-stocked pantry out of a parish toolshed, outfitting it with a refrigerator, freezer and lots of shelves.

The Knights and other parishioners at Sacred Heart Church were eager to come on board with the project. All of the volunteers attend a class each year to ensure that they meet stringent guidelines for food handling and social ethics. The class discusses things such as hand washing, distinguishing good canned goods from bad, and treating clients with respect.

“Everybody is reminded about how we do things,” Jose said.

“I’m still a rookie, but I’m learning fast.”

The Hawaii Food Bank treats the Sacred Heart outreach program as an official “agency” and drop-off site, Jose explained.

With this distinction, the food bank is able to send delivery trucks with provisions for direct donation at the parish on the first and second Tuesdays of each month.

Jose and Dennis Fortna, a fellow member of Council 11485, also regularly drive to the Hawaii Food Bank site in Honolulu’s industrial Mapunapuna district to pick up outreach items. On the third Tuesday of the month, they distribute frozen foods and meats in addition to dry goods and produce. On the fourth Tuesday, they dole out what remains in the pantry, which may include donations from parishioners and community organizations.

The Knights and other volunteers often spend more than eight hours at Sacred Heart Church on distribution days. If a month has a fifth Tuesday, they are given a break.

Clients of the food distribution program typically begin lining up as early as 6:30 a.m. At 10 a.m., people of all different ages and backgrounds are given numbered tickets for one trip through the distribution line.

The program has always been given more than enough supplies to serve its registrants.

“We always have the pantry where we keep canned goods, and we have a couple of freezers where we store extra food,” Fortna explained. “We don’t want to turn anybody away hungry, and have never had to.”

More than 160 people registered for the Dec. 9 distribution.

When the trucks arrived at noon, volunteers unloaded pallets of food, lined them up under a tent and organized the donations

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Gilbert K. Jose, a Fourth Degree member of Bishop James J. Sweeney Council 11485 in Waianae, Hawaii, is pictured as he oversees food delivery and distribution at Oahu’s Sacred Heart Church Dec. 9, 2014. • Paul G. Ganaban (left) of Council 11485 and a volunteer collect fresh produce for distribution to the needy.

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Feb 15 E 1_14 FINAL_Mar E 12 1/14/15 4:58 PM Page 26

by category: fresh produce, canned goods, snacks and breads. Jose then gathered everyone together for prayer and to offer encouragement and affirmation of God’s love to those in need.

“This is not only a time for gifts, but a time for happiness and being with one another,” he said.

Tickets were called by number, and volunteers swiftly loaded up clients’ carts and boxes with the food they needed.

“Thank you guys so much,” one client gratefully told a volunteer. “You guys are awesome.”

Longtime Sacred Heart parishioner and fellow council member Paul Ganaban said that the food program is an extremely gratifying experience for all those involved.

“I’m serving the people and I’m serving the Church,” he said.

In addition to providing food at the grassroots level, the program has also provided a way for the parish and state to keep track of who is seeking outreach services.

Each client must sign in with an ID or provide an ID at a later time.

Organizers keep all of the information in a confidential database.

Jose said that these strategies are nothing new. He has been visiting other well-established outreach programs and social ministries for additional advice on how to handle the sometimes overwhelming task of feeding the hungry.

“We all help each other,” Jose said. “That’s what it’s all about.”

DOING WHAT WE CAN In addition to the efforts of Council 11485, the altruism of the Knights of Columbus spans across the Hawaiian islands, as councils have been collaborating with parishes and local organizations to feed the hungry.

For instance, Bill Rodrigues of Brother Joseph Dutton Council 7156 in Honolulu regularly picks up surplus items from the Kaneohe Marine Corps Base commissary for the outreach ministry at St. George Church in Waimanalo. A small town on the opposite side of Oahu from Sacred Heart, Waimanalo has also seen a recent rise in the number of homeless camped on its streets and shorelines.

Rodrigues began volunteering his time to pick up food at the Marine Corps base several years ago. He had a close relationship with the late Father William “Bill” Mattimore, who was pastor of St. George Church for more than two decades. Both men served in the military and parlayed their connections at the commissary to benefit their parish family.

“One year, I picked up 19 tons of food,” Rodrigues noted, adding that he is proud to serve as a Knight of Columbus.

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FEBRUARY 2015

“I always wanted to join the Knights,” he said. “I looked up to them. All that I’m doing for the Church, it’s all a blessing.”

The Knights on Oahu are doing well to feed their neighbors, but one council has even been extending aid to the poor across the sea.

St. John Apostle and Evangelist Council 14663 in the Central Oahu city of Mililani has been collecting and shipping food to schoolchildren on the small, disadvantaged island of Molokai.

When the expansive Molokai Ranch closed in 2008, many residents were left unemployed and struggling to support families with the rural island’s meager resources.

William Castro, a member of Council 14663, said that the generosity of his fellow parishioners from St. John Apostle and Evangelist Church has been inspiring. The council sends over boxes of food and backpacks filled with nutritious snacks for more than 200 children each month.

The cost to ship these items by barge to Molokai can run high, but Castro said it does not deter the Knights’ passion for this project. He visits Molokai annually and sees firsthand that the children there have been doing much better in school when given healthy, wholesome meals.

“The kids are really benefiting,” Castro said. “We get back more prayers than we give. Christ is involved in this, in everything we do.

It’s just such a joy.”

A council on the west side of the Big Island of Hawaii, meanwhile, has started a new effort to provide fresh fruit for the needy.

State Deputy Stephen D. Lopez of St. Michael the Archangel Council 13227 in Kailua-Kona organizes a program called “Knights Harvest.” Since various citrus fruits, papayas, mangos, avocados and bananas often fall to the ground and go to waste on the Big Island’s agricultural land, the council offered to pick up these fruits to share with area food banks.

Lopez and his brother Knights now collect excess fruit growing on private properties in the same rich volcanic soil that produces world-famous Kona coffee.

The council has already donated 9,000 pounds of fresh fruit and has inspired the launch of a similar program in the town of Hilo, on the island’s east side.

“It’s a perfect thing for the Knights of Columbus,” Lopez said.

“My faith has grown tremendously since being involved with like-minded men.”

Jose echoed these sentiments at the end of the distribution day at Sacred Heart Church in Waianae. Even with weary legs and a tired team of volunteers, he said there is no greater satisfaction

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Above: Two men depart from the Sacred Heart Church food distribution with boxes filled with food. • Right: Past Grand Knight Dennis Fortna of Council 11485 and a volunteer unload a pallet of food from the Hawaii Food Bank together. • Opposite page: A smiling woman is pictured at the Sacred Heart food distribution. than the smiles the Knights receive through the simple sharing of food. He hopes more people will get involved with the outreach program and continue its mission to pay kindness forward.

“I like what I do,” Jose said. “I just like to see the people’s faces.

Sometimes it’s only temporary for them, but at least that’s something. We just try to do what we can. Whatever little bit we can give, why not?”♦ DARLENE J. M. DELA CRUZ is a reporter and photographer for the Hawaii Catholic Herald.

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KNIGHTS IN ACTION

REPORTS FROM COUNCILS, ASSEMBLIES AND COLUMBIAN SQUIRES CIRCLES

COLUMBIA NEEDS YOUR PHOTOS!

Columbia is always in need of great photos that showcase the activities of your K of C units. Reports that are accompanied by dynamic pictures are always the first to catch the attention of the editors. So what does it take to have your council’s picture published in Columbia magazine? Here are some tips: • Photograph people while they are involved in an activity. Do not stop what people are doing to set up a posed shot.

• Wear your Knights of Columbus gear. If your members have T-shirts, aprons or other items printed with the emblem of the Order, encourage them to wear these items at all of your events.

• Charity is about people.

Show readers how you have helped people through the funds you worked so hard to raise; do not show them a signed check.

• Send your photos to: columbia@kofc.org

28 ♦ C O L U M B I A ♦

Members of Father Crisostomo Council 6000 in Cabantuan City, Luzon, distribute rosary beads and booklets on how to pray the rosary to parishioners at the Barangay Santa Cruz Chapel.

Knights distributed the rosaries to encourage increased Marian devotion and family prayer.

NEW SIGN

St. Pius X Council 11168 in Getzville, N.Y., donated $10,000 to purchase a new electronic sign for St. Pius X Church. The sign displays Mass times as well as special messages that can be programmed by the parish administrator.

The chalice was inscribed, “To Father John Eze in memory of his mother Susan Eze,” with the emblem of the Order on the base.

CERT TRAINING

MEMORIAL CHALICE

St. Joseph Council 4599 in Smyrna, Ga., sponsored a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class at its council hall. CERT teaches attendees how to respond to natural and manmade disasters in the absence of, or while waiting for, first responders. Likewise, East Hanover (N.J.) Council 6504 donated $200 to East Hanover CERT. The funds are earmarked to purchase new equipment.

Queen of Peace Council 8617 in Mishawaka, Ind., presented a chalice to Father John Eze in memory of his mother, who passed away in her home country of Nigeria.

Christ the King Council 12165 in Tampa, Fla., raised more than $36,000 for the Foundations of Life Preg-

NEW TABLES

Fairfield (N.J.) Council 6380 purchased 40 commercialgrade tables and two carrying carts for St. Thomas More Church. The tables replaced old and cumbersome tables the parish had been using for approximately 40 years.

FEBRUARY 2015

ULTRASOUND & BUS

nancy Center. Of the money raised, $22,000 was used to purchase a new ultrasound machine through the Knights of Columbus Ultrasound Initiative. The remaining funds were used to repair the center’s mobile ultrasound bus.

HONORING A HERO

Lt. Cmdr. Father Joseph T. O’Callahan Assembly in West Springfield, Mass., presented a special framed certificate to Jay O’Callahan, the nephew of the late priest for whom the assembly is named. Jesuit Father O’Callahan served aboard the USS Franklin in World War II when it was attacked

by Japanese aircraft. For his actions in the line of duty, Father O’Callahan was awarded the Medal of Honor, the first priest since the Civil War to receive the prestigious award.

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KNIGHTS IN ACTION PREPARED TO SERVE

Richland (Wash.) Council 3307 donated $31,500 to PREPARES: Pregnancy & Parenting Support for All. PREPARES is a statewide pro-life initiative that was launched by the bishops of Washington’s three Catholic dioceses to serve women and couples in crisis pregnancies.

The donation, which came from the council’s charitable fund, represents $100 for each of the council’s 315 members.

EDUCATION ENDOWMENT

Mother Seton Council 6724 in Brandon, Fla., awarded $35,000 to Nativity Catholic School through the Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of

St. Petersburg. This gift establishes an endowment that will provide tuition assistance to families at Nativity in financial crisis.

FOOD DRIVE

Sunrise Council 6607 in Bohemia, N.Y., ran a food drive at two local grocery stores to benefit the food pantry at St. John Nepomucene Church.

Knights collected more than 4,600 pounds of food and $340 in gift cards, which will help to feed the estimated 140 families that the food pantry serves.

ROSARY & RECONCILIATION

Holy Spirit Council 11669 in Lantana, Fla., hosted an R&R (“rosary and reconciliation”) weekend at its parish.

Knights distributed rosaries and pamphlets on how to pray the rosary to all parishioners after Mass, urging them to renew their prayer lives and devotion to Mary.

BIBLES TO CONFIRMANTS

Carmenda R. Arevalo, deputy executive director of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, and Past Grand Knight Florentino B. Rosario of Manila (Luzon) Council 1000 look on as NHCP Executive Director Luduvico D. Badoy and Knight Antonio Hernandez unveil the historical marker for Council 1000. The council was recognized by the Philippine government for its civic achievements and for its contributions to the nation’s history. Founded in 1905, Council 1000 was the first K of C council established in the Philippines.

St. Paul Council 3105 in D’Abbotsford, Québec, donated Bibles to the 20 confirmants at St. Paul Church.

Knights annually donate Bibles to all of the young people who will receive the sacrament of confirmation.

TRAVELING CHALICE PROGRAM

During the Year for Priests in 2010, Prince of Peace Council 7983 in San Antonio created a glass case with a traveling chalice inside that parishioners could use to pray for vocations. The program has grown so popular in recent years that the council now has five chalices — one available at each of the five weekend Masses at Prince of Peace Church. Parishioners

Members of St. Rita’s Council 7624 in Rockford, Ill., and their families — all dressed as mermen and mermaids — charge into the water during a polar plunge at Olsen Lake to benefit Special Olympics. Knights raised more than $1,500 for Special Olympics by taking a dip in the frigid water and won second place for their costumes.

can even reserve the chalice through the parish or council website.

SPELLING BEE

Mount Shasta (Calif.) Council 2599 sponsored the annual Siskiyou County Spelling Bee, furnishing cash prizes for first- and secondplace winners in both elementary and junior divisions. Knights also provided funds for the winners’ families to travel to the state competition.

AMERICAN PRIDE DINNER

Star of the Sea Council 371 and Star of the Sea Assembly, both in Bayonne, N.J., hosted its annual American Pride Family Dinner to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. The focus of the event was to increase awareness of post-traumatic stress disorder, and the event raised more than $9,000.

MEDICINE COLLECTION

San Pedro and San Pablo Council 15218 in Matamoros, Mexico Northeast, collected medicine from members of the community and from parishioners at St. Francis of Assisi Church to benefit the clinics at two local parishes and at the Convent of St. Rose of Lima.

Knights collected medicine valued at 25,000 pesos (approximately $1,900), which will be distributed to people in need.

VESTMENTS FOR BISHOP

Texarkana (Texas) Council 1003 donated new rose vestments to Bishop Joseph E. Strickland of Tyler. Bishop Strickland joined the Order as a deacon in 1984 and is a member of Bishop Charles E. Herzig Council 1502 in Tyler. He served as council chaplain for 11 years.

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KNIGHTS IN ACTION

local emergency medical service. The bears are given to any child that has to ride in the ambulance.

MEMORIAL WALK

Roger Fontaine of Rocky Hills Council 7497 in Prud’Homme, Saskatchewan, uses a tractor to dump a load of topsoil at a local cemetery while fellow council members rake and level the dirt. Knights undertook a project to beautify the cemetery by hauling and leveling new topsoil and planting new grass.

PARISH MINISTRY FAIR

Members of Father McCauley Council 6609 in Fayetteville, Ark., responded to their pastor’s “Stewardship Renewal Campaign” by organizing a parish ministry fair at St. Joseph Church. Nearly 50 parish organizations exhibited at the fair — including the council, which offered general information about K of C membership, degrees and insurance.

MASS KIT

Father James Knight Assembly in Moore, Okla., donated a Mass kit for use at the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City’s Our Lady of Guadalupe Retreat Camp. The Mass kit was donated in memory of a deceased member.

ROSARIES FOR KENYA

Father Edward Shaughnessy Council 3884 and Father George F. Clark Circle 819, both in Newington, Conn., hosted a “Rosaries for Kenya” drive. Knights and Squires collected more than 450 rosaries, religious medals and other items for Christians in 30 ♦ C O L U M B I A ♦

the East African nation, which were personally delivered by council member Kinyua Nyamu.

ROOM REPAIR

Barasoain (Luzon) Council 3817 hosted a benefit dinner to raise funds for the repair and maintenance of the Father Gregorio Crisostomo Room at Barasoain Church.

The room is currently infested with termites and has suffered structural damage.

The dinner raised 50,000 pesos (approximately $1,120) for the needed work.

MEN’S ONLY HEALTH CLINIC

St. Ignatius Council 7621 in Tarpon Springs, Fla., hosted a men’s only health clinic at St. Ignatius Church with support from 24 volunteer nurses and nine doctors. The day began with continental breakfast, followed by free screenings for a variety of medical problems. Men also heard a presentation by a local urologist.

WHEELCHAIR LIFT

St. Mary’s Council 3212 in Tillsonburg, Ontario, hosted

FEBRUARY 2015

a charity raffle to benefit a council member who was injured in a boating accident.

Denis Turcotte was hit by a propeller and paralyzed from the neck down while scuba diving. Funds from the raffle were used to purchase and install a wheelchair lift at Turcotte’s home.

St. Brigid Council 13204 and Father Joseph T. O’Callahan Assembly, both in Johns Creek, Ga., worked for more than a year to raise $21,000 to build a gazebo at the Johns Creek Veterans Memorial Walk. In addition, Knights volunteered 670 hours to build the structure.

The memorial includes 10 plazas that honor veterans from World War I through all the conflicts to the present day. Knights donated $2,000 to the memorial itself, and the assembly provided an honor guard for the park’s dedication.

RETREAT COLLECTION

Our Lady, Star of the Sea Council 7122 in North Myrtle Beach, S.C., was planning to attend a retreat at the Shrine of our Lady of South Carolina in Kingstree along with other councils in the district. A few weeks before the retreat, the shrine made a special request for canned food to help stock the pantry run by the Felician Sisters.

Knights responded in kind by collecting 825 pounds of food and delivering it when they traveled to the shrine for their retreat.

A DOSE OF COMFORT

Msgr. Patrick R. Dunigan Council 695 in Flint, Mich., donated a box of Knights of Columbus teddy bears to a

Members of Father Michael J. McGivney Assembly in Blairsville, Ga., salute the U.S. and papal flags that Knights placed at St. Francis of Assisi Church. St. Francis Council 11746 donated and installed the flagpoles in the church’s memorial garden, which was blessed and dedicated by Father Juan F. Areiza in memory of deceased veterans.

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KNIGHTS IN ACTION

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Members of Leo XIII Council 1090 and Msgr. John Neale Assembly, both in Terryville, Conn., stand with a new statue of the Order’s founder, Venerable Michael McGivney, that Knights placed at the LYCEUM Catholic Community Center in Terryville. The council held a special Mass and dedication ceremony for the statue of Father McGivney, who served as pastor of Immaculate Conception Church in Terryville from 1884-1890. The event helped raise funds for the local food pantry, and the memorial statue of Father McGivney will be perpetually lit.

FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN

Father William Blum Council 3656 in Crystal, Minn., volunteered to pack meals for Feed My Starving Children, an organization that sends nutritious, hand-packed meals to malnourished children in 70 countries around the world.

Specifically, Knights helped pack 93 cases of food for children in Haiti.

FEBRUARY 1990 COVER: Photo by John Zierten, courtesy of Our Sunday Visitor

ROAD RACE

Bernardo Council 1350 in Shelton, Conn., held its annual road race through the streets of its community. The event drew 200 runners and raised $5,000 for the council’s charitable fund.

PRO-LIFE YARD SALE

James Madison University Council 9286 in Harrisonburg, Va., hosted a community yard sale to help support the Harrisonburg Pregnancy Center. Father Edward W. Johnston Council 9488 pro-

vided items for the college Knights to sell at the yard sale, proceeds from which will help the pregnancy center purchase a new ultrasound machine.

FRATERNAL CAMPING & FISHING

Louis Joseph “Jimmy” Wittler Circle 4169 in Pleasanton, Texas, undertook a fraternal camping and fishing trip to Rockport. In addition to the outdoor activities, Squires also attended Mass at the historic Star of the Sea Chapel and toured the chapel’s prayer garden.

kofc.org exclusive See more “Knights in Action” reports and photos at www.kofc.org/ knightsinaction

February 1990

FEATURE ARTICLE The February 1990 issue kicked off with a feature piece

by Jeannette Angell-Torosian titled “Silent Art that Speaks of Faith.” Writing about the history of icons in Catholic tradition and the role they continue to play in educating and inspiring the faithful, Angell-Torosian said: “Icons are doorways into stillness, into closeness with God. If we sit with them long enough, we too can enter into that stillness, into that communion. And if we listen to them closely enough, with our hearts, we just may discern the voice of God.” SUPREME COUNCIL NEWS Elmer Von Feldt, former editor of Columbia and director of historical research at the Supreme Council, retired Dec. 1, 1989, after 23 years and four months of service.

Prior to joining the Knights of Columbus as editor of Columbia, Von Feldt had a career as a reporter, feature writer and editor. From 195665 he served as news editor of the National Catholic News Service, and in 1963-64 he acted as director of the U.S. Bishops’ Press Panel for the Second Vatican Council in Rome.

KNIGHTS IN ACTION From reports on councils and jurisdictions: “Lillian Murray has new friends in her guide dog, ‘Casey,’ and the Knights of St. Thomas More Council 6062 in Hauppauge, N.Y., who arranged for her to obtain the dog. The council donated $3,000 to the Smithtown Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, which trains guide dogs for blind people.”

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Players practice their putts at the annual “Golf For Charity” tournament hosted by Our Lady of Joy Council 11116 in Carefree, Ariz.

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STATE/PROVINCE ZIP/POSTAL CODE Complete this coupon and mail to: The Father McGivney Guild, 1 Columbus Plaza, New Haven, CT 06510-3326 or enroll online at: www.fathermcgivney.org

OFFICIAL FEB. 1, 2015: To owners of Knights of Columbus insurance policies and persons responsible for payment of premiums on such policies: Notice is hereby given that in accordance with the provisions of Section 84 of the Laws of the Order, payment of insurance premiums due on a monthly basis to the Knights of Columbus by check made payable to Knights of Columbus and mailed to same at PO Box 1492, NEW HAVEN, CT 06506-1492, before the expiration of the grace period set forth in the policy. In Canada: Knights of Columbus, Place d’Armes Station, P.O. Box 220, Montreal, QC H2Y 3G7 ALL MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOS, ARTWORK, EDITORIAL MATTER, AND ADVERTISING INQUIRIES SHOULD BE MAILED TO: COLUMBIA, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-0901. REJECTED MATERIAL WILL BE RETURNED IF ACCOMPANIED BY A SELF-ADDRESSED ENVELOPE AND RETURN POSTAGE. PURCHASED MATERIAL WILL NOT BE RETURNED. OPINIONS BY WRITERS ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE VIEWS OF THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS. SUBSCRIPTION RATES — IN THE U.S.: 1 YEAR, $6; 2 YEARS, $11; 3 YEARS, $15. FOR OTHER COUNTRIES ADD $2 PER YEAR. EXCEPT FOR CANADIAN SUBSCRIPTIONS, PAYMENT IN U.S. CURRENCY ONLY. SEND ORDERS AND CHECKS TO: ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-0901.

COLUMBIA (ISSN 0010-1869/USPS #123-740) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, 1 COLUMBUS PLAZA, NEW HAVEN, CT 06510-3326. PHONE: 203-752-4000, www.kofc.org. PRODUCED IN USA. COPYRIGHT © 2015 BY KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NEW HAVEN, CT AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO COLUMBIA, MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-0901.

CANADIAN POSTMASTER — PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 1473549. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, 50 MACINTOSH BOULEVARD, CONCORD, ONTARIO L4K 4P3 PHILIPPINES — FOR PHILIPPINES SECOND-CLASS MAIL AT THE MANILA CENTRAL POST OFFICE. SEND RETURN COPIES TO KCFAPI, FRATERNAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, PO BOX 1511, MANILA.

32 ♦ C O L U M B I A ♦

FEBRUARY 2015

IT’S NOT EASY to score a hole in one in golf, but Our Lady of Joy Council 11116 in Carefree, Ariz., has certainly landed close to the pin with the council’s annual “Golf For Charity” fundraiser.

Now in its 14th year, the tournament has continued to raise the bar for the council’s charitable fundraising endeavors. In 2014, the event raised $165,000 for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and 25 worthy charities. Over the history of the tournament, Knights have raised more than $1.4 million.

For the past nine years, the event has been played at Troon Country Club in Scottsdale, but registration in 2014 was so far over capacity that additional foursomes were added at the nearby Desert Highlands Golf Club.

In addition to meals and a day on the links, players competed for team and individual awards, hole-in-one prizes and raffles.

During dinner, which was held at the Troon banquet room, tournament organizers told the audience about the history of the event. Representatives from the Society of St. Vincent de Paul also thanked participants for their generosity.

The day culminated in a live auction that included such prizes as a week’s stay in condos at various tropical locations and autographed memorabilia. Bidding edged up towards $10,000 for one week in a fabulous Tuscany villa and provided a dramatic finish to what had already been a very full day.

Photos by Jack McAward

CITY

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K N I G H T S O F C O L UM B U S

Building a better world one council at a time Every day, Knights all over the world are given opportunities to make a difference — whether through community service, raising money or prayer. We celebrate each and every Knight for his strength, his compassion and his dedication to building a better world.

TO

BE FEATURED HERE , SEND YOUR COUNCIL’ S

C OLUMBIA , 1 C OLUMBUS P LAZA , N EW

Members of Banal Na Sakramento Council 8753 in Quezon City, Luzon, look on as Father Rudy M. Tulibas (lower left), council chaplain, blesses a new sign for Banal Na Sakramento Church on a busy intersection in Barangay Talipapa. Knights sponsored the placement of the sign, which directs residents to the church.

“K NIGHTS IN A CTION ” H AVEN , CT 06510-3326

PHOTO AS WELL AS ITS DESCRIPTION TO : OR E - MAIL : COLUMBIA @ KOFC . ORG .

FEBRUARY 2015

♦ C O L U M B I A ♦ 33

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PLEASE, DO ALL YOU CAN TO ENCOURAGE PRIESTLY AND RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS. YOUR PRAYERS AND SUPPORT MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

K E E P T H E F A IT H A L I V E

‘LORD, IF YOU WANT ME TO BE A PRIEST, I’LL DO IT.’

FATHER BENTON GARRETT, LT, CHC, USN Navy Chaplain Programs Officer Hyattsville, Md.

Photo by Ed Pfueller

The first time I seriously thought about being a priest was shortly after my conversion to Catholicism in high school. I reflected on how I had never known the beauty, joy and fulfillment of a relationship with Jesus Christ in and through the sacraments, and realized there must be millions of people out there just like me. I remember praying, “Lord, if you want me to be a priest, I’ll do it.”

The Knights of Columbus were a constant presence of support during my priestly formation. It was at a barbeque sponsored by the Knights that I first met a recently retired Navy chaplain who encouraged my interest in the military chaplaincy. Inspired by his mentorship, I asked my archbishop for permission to be a full-time Navy chaplain once I was ordained. I’m now in my sixth year of active duty, currently working as a chaplain recruiter for the U.S. Navy.

The need for priests serving in all military branches is incredibly great. I call on all of my brother Knights to encourage priests to serve as military chaplains for our men and women in uniform.