July 2007

Brothers, there's kind of a transformation that you go through when you join and are active in the Knights of Columbus - I'll share what happened to me, but I believe that this same general experience has occurred with the majority of our active members.

• I joined our council in January of 2000 shortly after we moved to Brownsburg. As a new member in the council and a new member at St. Malachy - I was a little intimidated at first. I headed downstairs after that first meeting for sandwiches and refreshments among all of these guys that I didn't know from Adam.
  
  
• During the subsequent meetings, sign up sheets start to come around for various activities - I felt a little pressure to sign up for something because I noticed that the two guys setting next to me signed up on each of the last three clipboards that came around. So I decide to take the plunge and sign up. Before long I'm wearing a vest and holding a can passing out Tootsie Rolls to folks in front of Kroger. It feels a little strange at first. What is a grown man doing standing in a goofy vest with a collection bucket handing out Tootsie Rolls and accepting donations?
  
  
• Then it happens. A group like Special Olympics comes in to one of our meetings to thank the council for our contribution and support. During the emotional presentation from the athletes, I look around and see all of the teary eyed men standing around me, and then I start to understand the importance of those Tootsie Roll donations. I walk home a little taller that night, because I'm proud to be part of this event and part of this organization. I share this with my wife and kids and pretty soon they start to get interested in what the K of C is all about.
  
  
• Over time I bond with the men at the meetings and I get to know them well. I pray a decade of the Rosary with them each meeting, and if feels great to pray for their family and friends that may need special prayers. During the meetings, I also become educated about important issues in the Catholic Church - such as Pro-Life, and my conviction about my faith grows stronger.
  
  
• I now find myself looking forward to the meetings - because I will help in planning events that make a difference, I will discuss items that are important to me, and I will be getting together with friends. When the activity signup clipboard comes around, I no longer feel pressured to sign up for events. I sign up because I want to, I know that I will enjoy working along with my Brother Knights, and I know that the work that we do WILL make a difference.
  
  
• I start to look for ways to involve my family in the council activities - before long my kids are helping out in a car wash, my wife and kids are completely embarrassing themselves with me while doing a hillbilly skit for our priests at our annual Christmas party, were canoeing with other families, Christmas caroling, planting a garden to support the needy, and now as a family we are proud and excited each year to wear those goofy vests and distribute Tootsie Rolls.
  
  

When we as a council are able to make transformations like this happen for our members and their families within our parish community, we are in line with the intentions of our founder Fr. Michael J. McGivney 125 years ago. I am extremely honored to serve as your Grand Knight for the upcoming year - thank you for giving me this opportunity.

July 2007

I was listening to Fr John Corapi recently on Catholic Radio (89.1 FM) and he talked about how the power of his priesthood didn't come from himself, rather from all the help he had in formation and all the many people who prayed and suffered to give to him. It is similar with the GK position in the KofC. We accomplish so much because of the prayers and work of so many people in this group and I know the success of the last 2 years reflects that as much as it does my leadership. I thank God for the opportunity to get the Experience of a Lifetime.

Sir Isaac Newton said "If I have seen so far, it is because I have stood on the shoulders of Giants." Of course, I wouldn't even be writing this if it was not for the vision and efforts of Fr. Michael J. McGivney. However, I really want to thank all the Past GKs & Officers and Directors of #12540 who preceded me and laid the groundwork for us to build upon, so that each future leadership team doesn't have to begin everything from scratch. We continue to improve the community and to help more people every year because of the work you guys did years ago and the experiences that you have shared. I thank you all.

I cannot possibly thank all the people individually who had significance to me over the past 2 years and longer, because there are too many and I'm already losing your attention. Please don't feel that you didn't matter to me if I don't mention your name here, but I need to do a few. Like thanking Bryon Meunier for those 8 simple words: "Have you ever thought about joining the Knights?" It scares me to think about how vacant my life would be if he hadn't asked. And thanking my late-night email buddy ("Worthy Webmaster" if there was such a title) Rich Mroz, whose unique and humorous way of putting things kept me from being discouraged and gave me a file of a few classic emails to look back on when I needed a smile. (My favorite is still the concern he expressed over his new GK when he found the headline "Big Cat Blamed for Pig Kill Near Bloomington!") Then there's FS Bill Barnes, whose wife started to get jealous about how much we talked to each other. We learned about the position together and I really appreciate all the time, the questions, and the jokes. And, of course, I have to thank my partner and DGK Jeff Gaerke, whose work ethic and dedication to family have not gone unnoticed. Even though I had a couple of years to prepare for it, Jeff helped me to be a better Grand Knight by continuing to ask the "why" questions. "Why do we do that..." and "why don't we try..." questions forced me to really examine our beliefs and practices as a Council and mine as an individual, too. Thanks to each of you guys and the many, many that I don't have room to mention.

I've got to cut this off, but not before I remind you that Abraham Lincoln once said, "My father taught me to work; he didn't teach me to like it!" In this KofC Council, you learn how to do both.

Thanks for putting your trust in me, and never take for granted that you belong to the best Catholic, Fraternal, Service and Family organization in the world!

September 2006

I hope you had an enjoyable summer and were able to accomplish whatever goals you (or someone else) set for yourself. If you did some traveling, I hope you were able to visit a different Parish and didn't miss the chance to participate in Mass with a different community. (No, going to Noon instead of 9:00 at St. M doesn't count!) Although the architecture may look different and the people may talk a little funny, it's always a great feeling to rediscover your "home" while on the road.

Though I'm not a world-traveler, I have been to Mass in big churches in California and DC, beautiful structures in Virginia and Atlanta, historical buildings in Wisconsin and Chicago, and little country churches in Tennessee and French Lick. There was even that one we visited while camping that was so small that the Communion line had to exit the side door and walk outside the building to the main entrance in order to get back to the pews. No matter how different they appear, isn't it great that you know the responses and can immediately participate and fit in?

The traditions of the Mass link you to the Body of Christ no matter where you are. Even in a foreign location where you don't speak the language (and I don't mean Kentucky), you can follow the cadence and know by the gestures exactly what is happening and you are still bound together with the congregation and with God.

The end of Summer also signals a time for changes in our schedules, but you can count on many things remaining the same in your local KofC. We will ALWAYS provide service to the church and to the community and we will strive to be knowledgeable and active in our faith. Throughout this newsletter [mailed to your homes in early September] you can see reports on some of the annual events we recently held, but don't forget that we have many more opportunities to get involved. There are a multitude of ways to help out the Parish at Country Fare, and our monthly KofC Pancake Breakfasts begin in October. Even if you can't work these events, bring your families and friends and spend money to help worthy causes. Of course we continue to hold some traditional events like the Steak Fry, the bonfire/hayride, the Christmas party, Know-it-All, Knight Bowl, the Tootsie Roll Drive and the Lenten fish-frys, but we are also seeing new events like the summer Turkey Run outing and a Habitat for Humanity day (among others).

There's something for everyone in this Council, and it's a great privilege to be a member of this group and a part of the team. We recently received notice that we were awarded Supreme's Star Council Award (for the 7th consecutive time). I can't say whether it will be another award-winning year as far as the State or Supreme is concerned, but I know I'm looking forward to another year of continued growth in membership, service, spirituality, and fun!

July 6, 2006

Effective immediately, please use this address (worden301@sbcglobal.net) for all KofC communications instead of the k12.in.us one. The other email will be down for 10 days and spotty after that, so I will NOT get your messages if you use it. Thanks!

In case you think I'm tardy with an Independence Day message, remember that the first newspaper didn't publicize the Declaration of Independence text until July 6th and it was August before all the signatures were finalized. In fact, on July 4th, only 9 of the 13 colonies voted in favor of the document (2 said no, 1 was undecided, and 1 abstained). I suppose even the best of ideas can be hard to accept in the beginning.

I have always found it interesting how a declaration of IN-dependence for a group so quickly caused the individual members of that group to DE-pend upon each other in the battles. These patriots all gained strength through the reliance on their brotherhood and in their common goals.

Like we see in the KofC, the sum of our efforts can be much greater than our individual work, and volunteering side-by-side makes the experience richer. I hope you continue to appreciate and enjoy the blessings of liberty that we owe in part to that group of men who were willing to take a stand and work together to back it up.

September 2005

This weekend we salute the American Worker--the men and women who build and maintain our planes, trains, cars, & roads for better transportation; those fire, police, & military personnel who protect us and put our safety ahead of their own; the construction workers, whose efforts have produced better housing and some of the sturdiest and most beautiful buildings in the world; the farmers, whose ingenuity and determination provide food to us and other countries as well; those who teach on the job or in classrooms to ensure the future of business and of the country; those in manufacturing or transportation who continue to supply us with equipment, fuel, clothing, entertainment items, and more; those who work in finance to help maintain and improve businesses, government, & individuals; those medical & health workers whose efforts and research have improved our quality of life; those who have retired from these and the many other important jobs that are too numerous to mention here. In short, we salute those workers who have developed this country and who continue to make it the Greatest Nation on Earth! Take time to thank God for these individuals and that you live where and when you do.

See you soon,

August 2005

I’m glad that Supreme decided to stick with that phrase for another year, because it completely reflects how I feel about my association with this organization. I’ve always given time to my church and community, but it was done with a feeling of isolation – like it was my own private cross to bear. My efforts in the church were beginning to feel like work and like they were insignificant. I was introduced to the KofC in my late 30’s and found that this group provided what I had been missing for many years. I discovered a group of men of ALL ages who work hard and pray hard (& play hard!), and I began to feel more connected. The lessons from the 1st Degree about Charity enabled me to change my attitude about how to prioritize my time and my faith. Abraham Lincoln said, ”My father taught me to work, but he did not teach me to love it.” Now I feel that the time I spend at service events must not be work because I have such a good time while I’m doing it.

As valuable as the lesson from the 1st degree is, I have found that it is only a glimpse of what the Knights of Columbus organization is really about – both locally and internationally. Much more understanding was gained as I took my Major Degrees. I find with the strength of Unity, the support of Fraternity, and the pride of Patriotism, I have really gained so much more from this group of men than I could ever hope to give to them. I encourage each of you to find out (or re-learn) all you can by attending the Major exemplifications on October 9th.

I am thrilled with the opportunity to lead the St. Malachy KofC through the coming year. I have plans to see our membership numbers continue to grow by 10% and by 5% in insurance/investment members this year, while doubling (at least) the number of men who really actively participate in the council. The outstanding group of Officers & Directors (see pg 3) has already begun working to find ways to invigorate the membership through a variety of events for individuals, couples, children and families. Yes, we will still conduct Business at our meetings, but look for more opportunities to learn about your faith, each other, and the history and goals of the order, along with just plain fun. We are a Catholic, Fraternal, Family & Service Organization, and I hope you are as proud as I am to be a member of this group. Belonging to the Knights of Columbus really is “the Experience of a Lifetime.”

July 2005

Brothers,

As you make and discuss plans for cookouts, parades, visiting with friends, traveling, camping, boating, etc. for this big holiday weekend, I hope you will also remember to think about WHY you have so many options on how to spend extra day off. We celebrate July 4th as "Independence Day", but in reality there is a huge difference between declaring independence and earning independence (just ask a teenager). In the case of this country earning it took FIVE more years of battle, effort, and many lives before the surrender at Yorktown. This weekend, remember to fly your flag proudly and make sure you take time to thank God for providing us with many freedoms and the people (past and present) willing to work so we can enjoy them.

May 30, 2002

It is indeed a pleasure to represent the Knights of Columbus here tonight. On behalf of my brother Knights and our families, I would like to congratulate all of our 8th graders on their graduation from St. Malachy Parish School.

This is the 3rd year the St. Malachy Knights of Columbus will award a $500 Catholic Leadership Scholarship to a graduate who will continue their education at a Catholic High School.

Last fall when I was walking through Cardinal Ritter High School, I noticed a poster on a door of one of the classrooms, it read:

• of what is true
  
• of what is fair
  
• and what is right.
  

During your time here you have been exposed to many wonderful examples of leaders.

Your parents have demonstrated their leadership in many ways. One important way has been through their belief in the value of Catholic education. They recognized by completing your education here you would be prepared to move on to high school as leaders - and would not require the time some may feel is needed to be “socialized” into a new environment. This is the truth!

Mrs. McClain, the faculty, staff and many volunteers are leaders who have given of themselves and their time. They have made many sacrifices to give you an education second to none. They have taught you, nurtured you, comforted you, coached you and challenged you to grow. You have been given more opportunities and encouragement here than you could get anyplace else - to learn, to compete and to become the best that your generation has to offer scholastically, socially and athletically. That’s fair for all students!

Our good priests, Father Dan and Father Russ have ministered to you in many different ways. They have been your spiritual leaders here. The spiritual aspect of your education here is what truly makes you different from those who are not graduates of St. Malachy. Fr. Dan and Fr. Russ have given you guidance along your faith journey and shown their love and support for you. Never forget that they are strengthened by your love and support for them too! Our spirituality doesn’t make us right, it teaches us what is right!

On September the 11th, the Knights of Columbus instituted the KofC Heroes Fund. This fund was designated to assist the families of police officers, firefighters and emergency workers who lost their loved ones in the tragic events of that day.

You also felt a need to help and planned an activity to raise money throughout the school. When you heard about the KofC Heroes Fund, your leadership decided to join our council in making a donation. I am pleased to let you know that your donation made it there and is a part of more than $1.3 Million that has already been paid out by the KofC to assist these families.

You have already demonstrated your leadership in many ways. You have exemplified the principles of the Knights of Columbus:

• Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism

You have all been appropriately prepared to be leaders in our community. We need you to take what you have learned here - and become leaders in our community - followers of what is true, what is fair, and what is right!

Now, it is my honor to present the Knights of Columbus - Catholic Leadership Award - to the individual among you, who will join previous recipients Ryan McManus and Zach Koontz - - - Congratulations, Patrick Rodgers!

April 15, 2002

Brother Knights,

I would like to begin today by relaying to you a story that had been brought to my attention recently. This occurred on Easter Sunday as the pastor of a parish was beginning his Easter sermon. The priest invited all the little children to come forward and sit on the steps near the Altar.

One little girl really stood out among the children as she bounced toward the steps in a very pretty and fancy dress. As the priest had been known to do during school Masses, he began his sermon by asking the children some questions.

As the little girl with the fancy dress was sitting down, Father leaned over and said, "That is a very pretty dress. Is that your Easter dress?" The little girl replied, directly into Father's clip-on microphone, "Yes, and my mom says it's a real b**** to iron!"

If only that were the most embarrassing thing that we had to deal with these days!

When I addressed you the very first time as Grand Knight back in July during the installation of officers, I commented on Fr. Dan's remarks during his sermon at Mass the previous Sunday of the trend on TV and in society toward eliminating the weakest link. As Knights, we look to our members as individual fibers, that united together, form a strong unbreakable cable. I reminded you - "... that is exactly what we need to be."

I am reminding you of that again today!

Our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, has referred to the Knights of Columbus as the "strong right arm of the Church."

• We must continue to take this responsibility seriously.
  
• We will defend our faith!
  
• We will promote vocations!
  
• We must and will support our priests and seminarians!
  

Unity in support of priests and seminarians is once again imperative upon us and our families. By supporting our priests we will continue to defend our faith and promote vocations as well.

I assume that many of you have been asked your opinion on the scandal in the Catholic Church today.

I have been. Most recently a friend who is not Catholic said to me, "I am only asking you this because it's been all over the news. What's your opinion on this mess with the priests? Don't you think that the celibacy thing is a big part of this problem?"

Boy was I glad that I attended the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral on Tuesday during Holy Week! Archbishop Beuchlein challenged the media present at that liturgy to tell the whole story . . . that 98% of pedophiles were married men. He also asked those attending the service to think back to some point in time when they, or someone they knew, were in need and found strength, courage and comfort from a priest. Within seconds, I was in tears.

Now I ask you to do the same - think back to some point in time when you, or someone you know, were helped by a priest.

Right now, maybe more than ever, they need our support. We will be there for them!

With regard to my friend:

• I told him that, yes, what has happened is a very sad and horrible thing.
  
• I told him that 98% of pedophiles are married men. (I have since been made aware of various studies that support this with percentages consistently over 90%.)
  
• I told him that the Catholic Church, like all faiths, is subjected to the same human frailties.
  
• I also told him that anyone who commits a crime against a child deserves to be punished to the full extent of the law while those who have been wrongly accused should be exonerated . . . "with liberty and justice for all."
  

Now at a loss for words, my friend turned to a beautiful framed portrait on my desk and asked, "Who's that?" I told him, with tears suddenly welling up in my eyes, "That is Fr. Stanley Milewski, a dear friend and an incredibly holy and pious Catholic priest! In addition to being the major influence on the formation of my faith, he was a major influence in the development of my character. He passed away from us and into the arms of our Lord on February 15th."

Brother Knights, pray for all of those who have been affected by the events that we are hearing so much about. Pray for the victims, their families, those who committed these acts, those who hindered swift justice (whether by accepting payments or transferring the problem), those who may be wrongly accused, those who now must carry the burden of embarrassment that others have placed on them and those who continue to serve us as priests. Pray for an increase in vocations and pray that young men considering the priesthood be given the strength, courage and comfort to follow their call.

Yours in Charity, Unity, Fraternity, Patriotism and Support of the Priesthood,

October 30, 2001

Worthy Brother Knights:

I have just been advised of a contribution that will be made in conjunction with our Sunday, November 4 pancake breakfast to benefit the Knights of Columbus Heroes Fund.

Janet Clements, St. Malachy School librarian and Student Council moderator, has informed me that the Student Council will contribute the money that they are raising, with the help of all St. Malachy School students, to be joined with the proceeds from our breakfast.

The students are currently guessing the number of seeds in a pumpkin to win things like casual day passes and other small, but often appreciated, classroom "perks."

Mrs. Clements estimates that this contribution should be in the range of $100-$200!

The students had been expressing a desire to contribute to the relief efforts of the September 11 attack and planned this contest. They were then trying to determine where to send their contribution when they noticed our bulletin insert advertising our upcoming breakfast.

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank Mrs. Clements, the St. Malachy Student Council and all of the students at St. Malachy School for their generosity in assisting all of the families of firefighters, police officers and emergency workers who have lost their loved ones. The Knights of Columbus Heroes Fund will provide each family with $3,000 to help them with immediate funds in order to attempt to maintain some order in their lives.

I would also like to invite Mrs. Clements and the Student Council Officers to attend our meeting on Monday, November 5 at 7:00 p.m. in the Holy Family Room so that we might be able to personally thank them for their thoughtful contribution.

Sincerely,