Dear Brother
Knight,
As the world
reels from the coronavirus crisis, the Knights of Columbus continues to
serve: providing the charitable, spiritual and financial resources relied on
by so many.
Early action
at the Supreme Council headquarters meant that we began working remotely in
mid-March, ensuring the health and safety of our workforce, and the
continuity of our business operations with minimal disruption. Our employees
are putting the “home” in “home office,” as they continue their work with the
utmost commitment and excellence.
The Order’s
agency force has also embraced working virtually. Agents continue to meet and
advise members about their insurance and financial needs, but now they do so
online through secure Skype appointments. The financial services and products
we offer are important in normal circumstances; they are vital during this
pandemic.
The Knights
of Columbus remains financially strong. On April 6, Standard and Poor’s
ranked life insurers on their ability to weather the coronavirus storm. Of
hundreds of life insurers in North America, the Knights of Columbus was one
of only six to earn the top ranking.
Responding to
the pandemic, in March we launched a new initiative — “Leave No Neighbor
Behind” — and councils worldwide are already implementing it, providing
critical support in neighborhoods and parishes, donating blood, and ensuring
that no one is forgotten. The Supreme Council has also launched a
multimillion-dollar campaign to support food banks in the United States and
Canada, and we are providing a financial lifeline for dioceses as well.
These efforts
complement the countless ways that brother Knights are helping the sick, the
hungry and others in need. Our charitable work in North America is so
significant that the White House has asked for regular updates on our relief
efforts.
During this
pandemic we have also adapted from in-person meetings to having councils
conduct essential business remotely. The Supreme Council has also provided a
platform to allow every jurisdiction to hold a virtual state convention. The
means of connecting has changed, but our proud tradition of faith in action
has not.
Our actions
have been a powerful witness, and a recent degree ceremony, held online,
produced the largest number of new members from a single event in our Order’s
history. The Supreme Council is hosting our new Exemplification of Charity,
Unity and Fraternity online every Thursday. In addition, our eMembership
option continues to provide a quick and easy way for men to join our
brotherhood.
The Knights
of Columbus has risen to meet every challenge we have faced since 1882. In
fact, COVID-19 is the third pandemic in our Order’s history. As we have
always done before, we will prevail and do immense good during this time. Not
only will the Order come through this crisis; we will make a decisive
difference in ensuring that our parishes, communities and countries do the
same.
May Venerable
Father Michael McGivney and Our Lady of Guadalupe guide and guard you in the
days ahead. Vivat Jesus!
Fraternally,
Carl A.
Anderson
Supreme Knight |
