The Knights of Columbus was founded on March 29, 1882, through the vision of Father Michael J. McGivney, assistant pastor of St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, and was chartered by the Connecticut legislature as a fraternal benefit society. The Order remains rooted in charity, unity, and fraternity.
It was formed to provide financial aid and support to members and their families, including assistance to people who are sick, disabled, or in need. Its educational, charitable, religious, community, war-relief, and public-outreach work also fosters social and spiritual fellowship.
The Knights has grown from one council to more than 14,000 councils and 1.8 million members in the United States, Canada, the Philippines, Mexico, Poland, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Panama, the Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, Cuba, Guatemala, Guam, and Saipan. It also supports family security through life insurance, annuities, and long-term-care programs while contributing service to communities worldwide.