Who Are the Knights

Our Founder: Blessed Father Michael McGivney

The Knights of Columbus began with a young Catholic parish priest, Father Michael J. McGivney, who saw the hardships facing immigrant and working-class families in nineteenth-century America. When a family's breadwinner died, a widow and children could face severe financial hardship. Father McGivney envisioned a brotherhood of Catholic men who would support one another, care for their families, and put their faith into action.

Working with men from his parish, St. Mary's Church in New Haven, Connecticut, Father McGivney founded the Knights of Columbus in 1882. The organization was formally incorporated on March 29, 1882. It brought together Catholic men in a spirit of mutual assistance, charity, and fraternity.

Father McGivney died in 1890 at age 38. He was beatified by the Catholic Church in 2020 and is known today as Blessed Michael McGivney. His vision continues to inspire Knights to serve their parishes, families, and communities.

What Do the Knights of Columbus Stand For?

The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic fraternal service organization founded on the principles of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity. Patriotism is the fourth principle associated with the Fourth Degree. Knights put these ideals into practice by helping neighbors in need, supporting the Church, strengthening families, and serving their communities.

From local parish breakfasts and charitable fundraisers to larger service initiatives, the Knights provide opportunities for Catholic men to grow in faith and friendship while making a difference.

Big Thompson Council 3434 — Loveland, Colorado

Our council was founded in 1951 and takes its name from the Big Thompson River, which runs through the Loveland valley. Council 3434 works closely with St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, supporting parish projects, charitable causes, and community traditions.

Our activities include Sunday breakfasts, Sunday Bingo, Lenten Fish Fries, the St. Patrick's corned beef and cabbage seminarian benefit dinner, Christmas celebrations, an Easter egg hunt, and the Tootsie Roll Drive. We also support the parish through projects such as providing missalettes.

Join Us

Men who are practicing Catholics and meet the Knights of Columbus membership requirements are welcome to learn more. Council 3434 meets on the second Tuesday of each month at Knights Hall, 1730 W 12th St, Loveland. The Rosary begins at 7:00 p.m., followed by the council meeting at 7:30 p.m.

Learn how to join Council 3434 or email knightsofcolumbus3434@gmail.com.

Learn more about our founder at Knights of Columbus — Our Founder.