The Knights of Columbus
by Allen Perk

The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic men's fraternal benefit organization that was formed to render aid and assistance to the sick, disabled, and needy members of our community. Founded on October 2, 1881 by Father Michael J. McGivney in New Haven Connecticut, membership has grown to over 1.6 million men in North America and almost 200 men at St. Matthew.

Grand Knight Brian Barringer explains that the Knights at St. Matthew, "Perform charitable works and Demonstrate Catholic beliefs and ideals in the work that we do. Our council at St. Matthew's is very involved in the life of the parish. Basically, we raise money through social events and then turn around and donate the profits to various charities."

Barringer continued, "The Knights also assist in whatever the Parish or Father Noble requests of them, whether it involves the Parish Summer Festival, removing pews from the old church, or caroling for the Parish shut-ins during Christmas. "

Deputy Grand Knight Rod Barnaby noted, "Annually our council donates close to $20,000 to a variety of causes such as Catholic scholarships, ALS, the Mentally Challenged, Youth Goups, Pro-Life, and to the seminarians at The Pontifical College Josephinum.

The Knights also sponsor several events to raise month for the above charities. These are a Spaghetti Dinner in December, a Reverse Raffle and Dinner in February, Lenten Fish Fry events, and Pancake Breakfasts in late fall and winter.

For more information on the Knights of Columbus contact Mark Smith at 614-476-3726.

Young Adults Ministry

In our modern world, it is getting increasingly difficult to find time for activities providing enjoyment and contentment. We are all looking for an opportunity for fellowship, but so very often we get completely lost in the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives.

We are constantly rushing to and throw, consumed by the cares of the day. So often we loose site of what the true purpose of our life is. The demands of the day, the demands at work, the demands of parenting, as well as various distractions we create for ourselves often leave us very little time for ourselves.

As individuals, we need to make time to participate in social interactions that enrich our lives. And what better place to start than parish activities based on a foundation of faith, love, and unity.

The Young Adults ministry was formed to identify and begin to meet the needs of the young adults of our parish, ages 20 through 35 years of age, married or unmarried, with or without children. Young Adults provides opportunities for its participants to come together for social, spiritual, and service activities. Activities include cookouts, dinner get-togethers, and sporting events and community service activities. The ministry continues to assess the needs of the young adults of our parish and develop activities that create opportunities for community fellowship.

For more information on this program e-mail us at STEWARDSHIP@stmatthew.net.