Columbus Day - Honoring our Namesake
- Sat, Oct 12, 2024 8:10 AM
Columbus Day is a recognized national holiday in the United States. This day commemorates the historic arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in October of 1492.
When Father Michael J. McGivney established the Knights of Columbus, he deliberately selected Christopher Columbus as the organization's namesake. This decision was made amidst a backdrop of prevalent anti-Catholic sentiment.
Father McGivney and his Knights recognized the significance of their choice - by aligning themselves with Columbus, they were making a bold statement and giving a voice to generations of Catholics. These Knights sought to demonstrate that Catholics had a rightful place within American society and to underscore the contributions of individuals like Columbus in shaping the nation they inhabited.
Therefore, Columbus Day holds a deeper meaning beyond simply being a day off from work or school. It serves as a reminder of Christopher Columbus's profound impact on America and the pivotal role he played in its formation.
To learn more about Christopher Columbus and his legacy, please click here