The Knights of Columbus, a fraternal, benevolent society of Catholic men was founded in New Haven, Connecticut in 1882, by Father Michael J. McGivney and a small group of pioneering Catholics to provide much needed security for widows and orphans of Catholic parishioners. The order’s goal is to promote social and intellectual interchange, to protect and promote Catholic interests, and to foster a spirit of fraternity among citizens of all races and creeds. These Catholic men and their families are dedicated to promoting the concepts of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. Today there are more than 1.8 million members in over 15,000 councils on three continents and numerous Island nations around the globe.

The first council formed in Kentucky was Council 390 in Louisville on December 7, 1898. The State Council was established in 1903 following the institution of Covington Council 702 and Lexington Council 762. Over the years the Knights of Columbus in Kentucky has grown dramatically and today stands at 92 councils with a membership in excess of 11,000.

If you are a practical Catholic man at least 18 years old, the Knights of Columbus may be for you. Contact us at the Kentucky State Council or the nearest local council in your area

Bill Schmidt, State Deputy

Mission Statement: The Kentucky State Council is dedicated to growing the Order throughout the state of Kentucky to further the vision of our founder, Fr. Michael J. McGivney. The Order was founded on the principle of Charity, specifically to care for the widow and orphan of a Brother Knight. Later the principles of Unity and Fraternity, as well as Patriotism were added. It is in these primary teachings that the Kentucky State Council will grow the Order by implementing programs that exemplify these principles. The leadership of the State Council will lead by example and through strong communication to inspire its members into action.