Knights of Columbus Report Record Membership Growth and Charitable Donations at Annual Convention in Quebec Amid Global Secularism Surge

In a surprising twist amidst a growing global trend towards secularism, the Knights of Columbus are celebrating an impressive uptick in both membership and charitable contributions.

This exciting news was shared at their annual convention held in Quebec, Canada, this week.

Supreme Knight Patrick E. Kelly revealed that the Knights’ membership soared to 2.1 million in the past year, marking one of the organization’s best growth years in a century.

With 92,000 new members joining, Kelly noted that this surge represents a significant achievement for the fraternal group. The organization also dedicated over 47 million hours to service, breaking records with $190 million in charitable donations.

“Together, we build up families, parishes, and communities that are centered on Christ,” Kelly stated during his speech on August 6. “There is no greater task.

It requires sacrifice and sometimes even suffering, but that’s what it means to be a disciple.”

Kelly highlighted the Knights’ expanding reach, noting increased membership across several continents, including the United States, Ukraine, the Philippines, Mexico, and France.

Particularly noteworthy was the rise in South Korea—a country the Knights have been present in for a decade—and Cuba, where the Knights have overcome significant historical challenges.

In the U.S., Kelly pointed out that half of the new online members were Hispanic, reflecting a growing demographic shift within the American Catholic population. He expressed optimism for future growth, envisioning a day when membership might reach 4 or 5 million.

He also referenced a survey indicating that 7 million Catholics are interested in joining but have yet to receive an invitation.

Kelly announced two new initiatives in Africa: one in Nigeria and another in Benin.

In Nigeria, a collaboration with the bishops’ conference and Franciscan University of Steubenville aims to establish a national catechetical institute to support ongoing formation for priests and lay leaders. With over 80% of Christians being killed for their faith in Nigeria, this initiative is crucial.

In Benin, the Knights are supporting the Sisters of the Company of the Savior in building a vocational training center for young girls.

This center aims to help girls discover their talents and develop both socially and economically, especially in a country where they are often targeted by terrorists.

Additionally, the Knights’ Charity Convoys have delivered over 8.5 million pounds of relief supplies to Ukraine, and their Mercy Centers have provided aid to over 1.6 million refugees.

The Ukraine Solidarity Fund alone has contributed $17 million in humanitarian relief.

Recognizing Family and Continuing the Mission

The Knights also awarded their “International Family of the Year” honor to the Ampe family, who adopted two children with Down syndrome from Ukraine. Their commitment is a testament to the organization’s values.

Kelly also highlighted the Knights’ response to natural disasters, including the 2023 wildfires in Hawaii.

They provided crucial support to affected communities, including rebuilding efforts at Sacred Hearts Catholic School in Maui and financial aid to teachers who continued working despite losing their homes.

Call to Action

Despite the rise of secularism, Kelly urged the Knights to follow in the footsteps of Blessed Michael J. McGivney, the founder of the fraternal organization, and St. François de Laval, Quebec’s first bishop.

“We must have the zeal of Bishop de Laval and Father McGivney,” Kelly said. “Like them, we must build and we must start by building up a new generation of Catholic men—men formed in faith and virtue; men prepared to be missionary disciples.”

Tyler Arnold is a staff reporter for Catholic News Agency, based in EWTN News’ Washington Bureau.

His previous work includes contributions to The Center Square and various other outlets, including The Associated Press, National Review, The American Conservative, and The Federalist.

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