Those that are familiar with information technology will get the “hello world” reference. For the rest of you, it’s typically one of the first instructions you write as a computer programmer–a basic program telling a computer to say “Hi”.
Most of you know my wife, Stephanie, and I–we’ve made St. Anne our home since moving to the area in 2003. Our kids, Clara and James, went through all the sacraments here, and Clara was an altar server. Stephanie has planned many church community activities throughout the years, and she often says that the week doesn’t start right unless she hears Laura’s flute.
For many years, I was aware of the Knights of Columbus but not familiar. They chop wood, they do pancake breakfasts, they stand on street corners and pass out tootsie-rolls. Back then that was about all I knew.
I admit it took some time for me to mature in my Catholic faith before I came around to being open to learning more, and eventually joined our Council in the spring of 2015. I quickly learned the ‘why’ behind the activities, and got to know fellow Catholic men that I’ve ‘known for years’.
When I am not participating in Knights of Columbus or church activities, I run my own digital marketing business and can typically be seen on the sidelines of a Redhawks lacrosse game cheering on James or traveling to watch Clara run cross country for LTU.
I see many young families at Mass each week, and it warms my heart as I think back on those days in my family. Back then I was never pressured to join the Knights, and I hope to never give that impression to others.
Participating in the Knights of Columbus amounts to 24 hours per year. Just 2 hours a month–doing community service with brother Knights from our Council can change your life. It’s time being formed into a better man, husband and father–a better Catholic.
So… ‘Hello World’ from your new Grand Knight of Council 6824, Jeff Mackey. Let’s chat. Call or text me any time with questions: 248-229-7614.