My dear brother Knights of Columbus; it is always wonderful to be with you. Your dedication and visible presence, particularly at Eucharistic celebrations, is a true source of joy for the clergy and religious. But what brings even greater joy is seeing your active participation in your parish communities, with your families, as vibrant members of the Body of Christ.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your service to the Church, its clergy and religious, your communities, and most of all the domestic Church: your families. Also, allow me to thank your wives, who support you in your service as Knights and in many other ways. As Pope Francis has said, “the experience of love in families is a perennial source of strength for the life of the Church, constantly enriched by the life of all the domestic Churches.”
Your role in the Church is vital. Just as the lay faithful rely on the clergy for spiritual guidance and spiritual nurturing, the clergy depend on the laity for support, faithfulness, example of Christian charity, and fruitfulness of the Lord’s work in the world. Together, we build up the Church and carry forward the mission of Christ.
Blessed Michael McGivney, your founder, understood this deep connection between clergy and laity. His life was dedicated to empowering laymen to serve the Church and society, inspiring both clergy and laypeople to holiness. Through your selfless acts of service, you embody his vision and live out the Gospel in everyday life.
As we gather today to share this meal, let us call upon God’s continued blessings for each of you, your families, and your service. May Our Blessed Mother of Guadalupe protect and guide you always.
Let us pray: Almighty Father, we thank you for these men and their dedication to the Knights of Columbus. Bless their efforts to serve the Church, their communities, and their families. May their lives be a reflection of Your love and grace. Bless this meal we are about to share, and may it nourish us in body and spirit, so that we may continue to serve You faithfully. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Enjoy the meal, and may God bless you all!
