My Brothers in Christ,

As Catholic men, we are called to a life of service.  We are called to care for our families, serve our communities and serve our faith communities.  I am excited to share with you that a great and wonderful opportunity exists for Catholic men to answer this call to serve by becoming a member of the Knights of Columbus.

This exemplary order of Catholic men was founded in 1882 by a parish priest who had the vision and foresight to conceive of an organization which would provide Catholic men the opportunity to live their Faith through charitable works, caring for their families, and defending the Catholic Faith.  Today, the Knights of Columbus are 1.8 million members strong in 14 countries, providing a strong moral example in an age where culture promotes secularism over service to others.  Each year, this organization of practical Catholic men donates more than $150 million and 70 million man-hours to charity, in addition to providing its members with the opportunity to share a fraternal brotherhood with men of similar values.

As a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus, I have personally witnessed the tremendous work that these men accomplish in this Archdiocese.  However, there is much work which needs to be done in the name of charity.  I strongly encourage each man in this Diocese, who considers himself to be a practicing Catholic and is at least 18 years old, to prayerfull consider joining the ranks of this fine organization.

Should a member of the Knights of Columbus contact you and invite you to learn more about this Order, please take some time to visit with them so that you may join us in our mission to promote Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism.  I promise you the experience of a lifetime.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverand Robert J. Carlson
Archbishop of St. Louis