K of C LogoDear Brother Knights,
I have been attending St. Mark since 2011 and have found it to be the church that my family had been searching for. I was hesitant to join the Knights of Columbus for many years due to some experiences I had witnessed first-hand when I was a young boy back in Northern Michigan. I have found that my family and I have always been made to feel welcome at church and over the years we have gotten to know many people here and it feels like home to us. In October of 2017, I was approached by Richard Starr and asked to join. I was also asked by John Joseph around the same time to join the K of C as well. I prayed on it and made the decision to become a Knight. I received my 1st degree in December with five other men. I have always been a part of a brotherhood as a young man in the Marine Corps, and then later in life as a cop. I still felt the brotherhood portion was still missing, just a little bit, however for me.
Since joining, I have participated in business meetings, planning meetings, and have helped out when I can at other functions. I have found myself having a lot of fun and really enjoyed getting to know some of the men a lot better. I can say with all my heart that I have found that piece of comradery that was missing. I recently proposed a hygiene drive via the Knights to help out those who are not as fortunate as me. It brings me warmth knowing that I can help others, which is a key element of being a 1st degree Knight in which we work with Charity. To me, this is a most important and rewarding part of being a Knight.
Recently this past week, I received my 2nd degree and immediately after received my 3rd degree. In it, much was discussed about Unity, and Fraternity. While going through this, I understand how we as a council require each other to be truly effective in helping others and that we are brothers that first take care of each other first. This is in keeping with the mission of the venerable Fr. McGivney, our founder. I learned the importance of keeping our priests and bishops near and dear to our heart and that they are a necessity within our organization and not just the church. We must always support and help them, even if it is means to advise them of needs within our community. If some of you brothers have not taken the step to obtain your 2nd or 3rd degrees, I would highly encourage you to do so. I have found that I need to step up even more as a practical Catholic gentleman to set the example when it comes to educating my family with scripture, Catholic doctrine, and according to catechesis. A verse that reminds me of this is, “If it is displeasing to you to serve the Lord, choose today whom you will serve, the gods your ancestors served beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose country you are dwelling. As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15, New American Bible). I have to admit I was very surprised to hear that we have about 150 1st degree Knights, and only two of us intended to earn our official Knighting. I pray that you my brothers would carefully consider to do the same.
In closing, I know first-hand how busy we all get with life, our families, and other commitments. I know that you all love our Lord Jesus Christ, and I would ask for you to revisit why you joined the Knights of Columbus. Was it out of tradition? Or was it because you wanted to serve? I can honestly say that even though it has been only mere days since obtaining my 3rd degree, I feel closer to God, my family, and my brother Knights. I want to thank Bernie Kuta and Tim Mosholder for not letting me go at this alone. God bless you all.

Adam N. – Brother Knight, Council 1498