At the simplest level, a saint is someone who has led an exceptionally holy and Godly life, although that exemplary life may have come after an imperfect start. Sainthood comes after death and requires proof that at least two miracles have followed the prayers to the deceased holy one.
Fr. Michael McGivney began his priestly ministry on Christmas Day in 1877 as curate at St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Connecticut.
He believed some organization should be created to help with the financial and spiritual needs of families, especially when the breadwinner had died or was unable to work. At this time in history, Catholics were a discriminated minority in America.
On March 29, 1882 in response to Fr. McGivney’s request, the Connecticut legislature granted a charter to the Knights of Columbus, formally establishing it as a legal corporation. Fr. McGivney installed the first officers of San Salvador Council No. 1 in New Haven in May of that year. Today there are more than 16,000 Knight councils worldwide.
The beatification of Knights of Columbus Founder Father Michael McGivney on October 31, 2020 by Pope Francis is the first priest to be beatified who spent his whole priestly ministry in a U.S. Parish. One more confirmed miracle needs to be attributed to the intercession of Blessed Michael McGivney for him to be declared a saint.
We pray each meeting for the intercession of Blessed Michael J. McGivney for the sick in our parish as well as those recently passed. Honored guests are always welcome. Reach out to me anytime.
Bryan Born, Grand Knight
(248) 891-9118
