Late-19th century Connecticut was marked by the growing prevalence of fraternal benefit societies, hostility toward Catholic immigrants and dangerous working conditions in factories that left many families fatherless. Recognizing a vital, practical need in his community, Father Michael J. McGivney, the 29-year-old assistant pastor of St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Conn., gathered a group of men at his parish on Oct. 2, 1881. He proposed establishing a lay organization, the goal of which would be to prevent Catholic men from entering secret societies whose membership was antithetical to Church teaching, to unite men of Catholic faith and to provide for the families of deceased members.
Begun in 1911 at St. Anthony’s, the Knights of Columbus helps the physically and mentally challenged people, youth, families, the Church and community.
Meetings are held on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. MST and 8 p.m. DST at the Knights of Columbus Hall. All Catholic males 18 years of age or older are eligible to join upon approval of application and initiation. 
Contact:
Ronald Schreder (970)522-5050
