By: Walter Winkle - Wed, Oct 21, 2026 9:00 PM

On Columbus Day, Monday, October 12, 2026, Michigan was represented in the Columbus Day Parade in New York City. Vice Supreme Master Walter Winkle, District Master Mike Page and Sir Knight Chris Ballor were the only three Sir Knights from Michigan to make the trip, and Vice Supreme Master Winkle brought three Ohio Sir Knights along with them.

They joined a large contingent of Fourth Degree Sir Knights in full regalia, marching behind the Knights of Columbus "One Nation Under God" banner alongside the American and papal flags. Along the way the group gathered for photos, including a large group photo of Fourth Degree Sir Knights on the steps in Central Park.

The Columbus Day Parade is a chance for our Order to honor Christopher Columbus, the namesake of the Knights of Columbus, and to give public witness to the Catholic faith he carried to the New World. Marching in the Fourth Degree, the Patriotic Degree, Sir Knights show love of God and love of country side by side.

Thank you to Vice Supreme Master Winkle, District Master Page, Sir Knight Chris Ballor and our brother Sir Knights from Ohio for representing Michigan so well, and to Chris Dodson for gathering the photos from the day. We hope even more Michigan Sir Knights will join the trip next year!

By: Paul J. Palka - Wed, Oct 21, 2026 8:32 PM

At the recent Michigan Catholic Women’s Conference at the Lansing Center, a booth for HEAL Nigeria (Home to Enhance African Life) caught the attention of the Michigan Knights. The organization, whose motto is “Called to Self-Emptying Service,” presents a compelling opportunity for Michigan Knights of Columbus to put our principles of Charity and Unity into action by supporting authentic Catholic formation and poverty relief in rural Nigeria.

HEAL’s Mission

HEAL’s mission is to form Servant Leaders through poverty relief, education, and entrepreneurship in the Self-Emptying Spirit of Christ (Philippians 2:6-11). Grounded in the example of Jesus—who “emptied himself, taking the form of a servant” (Phil. 2:7)—and the teaching that “whoever would be great among you must be your servant” (Matthew 20:26), HEAL provides concrete help while forming young people to lead with humility and service.

Founded by Fr. Leo Okonkwo (recently ordained for the Diocese of Bauchi) and Nick Costello, a longtime Knight of Columbus and University of Notre Dame graduate, HEAL operates as a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organization. In rural southeast Nigeria (Imo State), it supports two K-12 Catholic schools, including Berthrand Okonkwo Memorial Comprehensive Academy (BOMCA) in the Akpim area. These schools serve roughly 200 poor and marginalized children from subsistence farming families, including orphans and children of widows, in places where educational opportunity is scarce.

What HEAL Provides

Through these schools and related programs, HEAL offers:

•  Formal Catholic education and religious formation, including catechesis and preparation for the sacraments.

•  Daily nutritious meals that help keep children in school amid widespread food insecurity.

•  Agricultural and technical skills training so students can support themselves and their communities.

•  Poverty relief such as food, basic medical care, clean water, and other essentials for orphans, widows, and vulnerable families.

The long-term vision is to form young Africans in the principles of Servant Leadership so they can contribute to the peace and prosperity of their society. Students are taught not only academic subjects but also the spirituality of self-emptying service, reflecting the Gospel call that animates HEAL’s work.

Why This Matters to Michigan Knights

This mission aligns closely with the Knights of Columbus. We are called to charity that reaches the poor and vulnerable, to support Catholic education and the Church’s mission, and to live as men of faith who put the Gospel into practice. Supporting HEAL is a concrete way for councils and individual members to extend the spirit of Blessed Michael McGivney’s founding vision—practical help rooted in Catholic faith—across the world.

Many Michigan councils already sponsor or participate in the Catholic Women’s Conference where this opportunity was discovered. Promoting HEAL continues that spirit of encounter and service.

How You Can Help

Michigan Knights are encouraged to learn more and consider ways to support this work:

•  Visit healnigeria.org for full information on programs, updates, and ways to give.

•  Share HEAL’s mission with your council, parish, or family as a possible charitable project or personal donation opportunity.

•  Pray for the students, teachers, and missionaries serving in rural Nigeria.

•  Consider a council-level donation, fundraiser, or ongoing partnership that fits your local resources and priorities.

Donations to HEAL are tax-deductible. As with any charitable opportunity, councils are encouraged to review the organization’s materials and discern what level of involvement is appropriate for their members.

In a world that often measures success by status and self-interest, HEAL offers a clear witness to Christ’s self-emptying love. By supporting this mission, Michigan Knights can help form the next generation of servant leaders while living out our own call to charity.

For more details or questions, visit healnigeria.org or contact your council’s Grand Knight or Faith in Action director to discuss possible next steps.

Vivat Jesus.

By: Charles E. McCuen - Wed, Oct 21, 2026 8:16 PM

Six men were exemplified into the Patriotic Degree during a Fourth Degree mini exemplification hosted by Msgr. Thomas O. Martin Assembly #2210 at St. John Vianney Church in Clyde Park. District Master Steve Stressman and his team conducted the ceremony.

State Deputy Charlie McCuen took part in his second exemplification in a week, carrying the sword of Former State Secretary Antonio Vittorini. Antonio's wife, Susan, gave it to him as a gift.

Congratulations to our newest Sir Knights, and thank you to Msgr. Thomas O. Martin Assembly #2210 and the degree team for their work. As our Worthy State Deputy reminds us, "Plan the work and work the plan, we still have room for more men to join us!"

By: Armando Figueroa - Wed, Oct 21, 2026 7:18 PM

El domingo 18 de octubre de 2026, siete nuevos hermanos Caballeros fueron recibidos en los Caballeros de Colón durante una Ejemplificación de Caridad, Unidad y Fraternidad celebrada en español en la Parroquia San Juan Diego en Detroit.

La ceremonia fue realizada por el Equipo de Ejemplificación en español, liderado por Armando Figueroa, Director de Alcance Hispano de Michigan. Como es nuestra costumbre, a cada nuevo hermano se le entregó un rosario y el pin de solapa con el emblema de la Orden, marcando el comienzo de su camino de fe, servicio y hermandad.

Este es un paso muy importante para los hombres católicos hispanos del área de Detroit. Estos nuevos hermanos están creciendo en número y trabajando para fundar un nuevo consejo, y pedimos a todos los Caballeros de Michigan que los mantengan en sus oraciones mientras construyen un hogar de caridad y fraternidad en su comunidad parroquial.

Gracias al Diputado de Distrito Claude J. Bergeron (DD131) por compartir estas fotos y esta noticia. ¡Bienvenidos, hermanos! ¡Vivat Jesus!

By: Armando Figueroa - Wed, Oct 21, 2026 7:18 PM

On Sunday, October 18^th 2026, seven new Brother Knights were welcomed into the Knights of Columbus during a Spanish-language Exemplification of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity held at San Juan Diego Catholic Church in Detroit.

The ceremony was conducted by the Spanish-speaking Exemplification Team, led by Armando Figueroa, Michigan Director of Hispanic Outreach. As is our custom, each new brother was invested with a Rosary and the Emblem of the Order lapel pin, marking the start of their journey in faith, service, and brotherhood.

This is an exciting step for Hispanic Catholic men in the Detroit area. These new brothers are growing in numbers and working toward chartering a new council, and we ask all Michigan Knights to keep them in their prayers as they build a home for charity and fraternity in their parish community.

Thank you to District Deputy Claude J. Bergeron (DD131) for sharing these photos and this news. ¡Bienvenidos, hermanos! Vivat Jesus!

By: Nick Zafer - Sun, Oct 18, 2026 3:59 PM

Council 6980 in Kalamazoo District 406 held an Exemplification Ceremony on Sunday, October 18^th 2026 in the Trinity Chapel at St. Catherine of Siena Church in Portage.  We are excited to welcome two new Brother Knights to Council 6980 – Christopher Manegold and Kenneth Westgate, and one new Brother Knight to St. Mary Council 9962 – Ricardo Teutli!

Pictured above - Left to Right:  Council 9962 Members Howard Deneah and Jeff Cypher; Council 6980 Degree Team Member Dominick DiCesare; Council 6980 New Brother Knight Christopher Manegold; Council 6980 Degree Team Members Jeff Phelan and Dan Kloosterman; Council 9962 New Brother Knight Ricardo Teutli; Council 6980 Degree Team Member Joe Comiskey; Council 6980 New Brother Knight Kenneth Westgate; St. Catherine of Siena Pastor Fr. Mark Vyverman; Council 6980 Degree Team Members Justin Stamm and Steve Borchert; Kalamazoo SDDR Nick Zafer.  Not pictured – Council 6980 Grand Knight and Worthy Photographer Joe Magalski!

By: Matt Hoxsie - Sun, Oct 18, 2026 3:36 PM

“A Day with the Saints”: Veneration of More Than 100 First-Class Relics on All Saints Day at Sweetest Heart of Mary

DETROIT — On the Solemnity of All Saints, Sunday, November 1, 2026, Mother of Divine Mercy Parish invites the faithful to “A Day with the Saints,” a special exposition of more than 100 first-class relics at Sweetest Heart of Mary Church.

The day begins with Holy Mass at 10:00 a.m. and continues with the exposition of the relics until 3:00 p.m. at 4440 Russell Street in Detroit. The collection includes relics of the True Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Twelve Apostles, St. Carlo Acutis, and many other saints. The parish also possesses relics connected to the life of Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary, including the Holy Manger, the Flagellation Pillar, and a portion of the veil of the Blessed Mother.

Sweetest Heart of Mary, one of the churches of Mother of Divine Mercy Parish, maintains a substantial collection of first-class relics. Previous expositions at the parish have allowed the faithful to pray before the relics, touch devotional items to the reliquaries, and deepen their sense of the Communion of Saints. As one priest serving the parish has noted in the past, the relics are “little pieces of heaven here on earth,” linking the Church on earth with the saints in glory.

All Saints Day is a Holy Day of Obligation. This year it falls on a Sunday, so Catholics fulfill the obligation by attending Mass. The exposition offers a concrete opportunity to honor the saints, ask for their intercession, and be inspired by their witness of holiness.

Brother Knights and their families are encouraged to attend. The event is open to the public. For questions, contact the parish at (313) 831-6659 or visit motherofdivinemercy.org/relics.

Event details at a glance

* Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026 (Solemnity of All Saints)

* Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Mass at 10:00 a.m., followed by exposition)

* Location: Sweetest Heart of Mary Church, 4440 Russell Street, Detroit, MI

* Phone: (313) 831-6659

By: Matt Hoxsie - Sun, Oct 18, 2026 3:19 PM

Vince Lombardi: A Fourth Degree Knight Whose Faith Shaped a Championship Legacy

GREEN BAY, Wis. — Decades after his death, Vince Lombardi remains one of the most celebrated coaches in NFL history. What is less widely known is that the man who led the Green Bay Packers to five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls, and whose name is on the Super Bowl trophy, was also a devoted Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus whose Catholic faith was the foundation of his life and leadership.

According to the Knights of Columbus, Lombardi joined Msgr. Basche Council 4505 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and later became a Fourth Degree Knight. In an excerpt published by the Order from The Knights of Columbus: An Illustrated History, Lombardi is described as “a man with strong Catholic faith and an unparalleled coaching career.” He believed faith was important in every life, considered daily Mass and Communion the source of his strength, and often led his Catholic players to Mass.

Born Vincent Thomas Lombardi on June 11, 1913, in Brooklyn, New York, to Italian immigrant parents, Lombardi grew up in a devout Catholic household. He served as an altar boy and, as a teenager, entered Cathedral Preparatory Seminary with the intention of becoming a priest. Football ultimately drew him away from that path, but his faith remained central. He attended Fordham University, a Jesuit institution, where he played on the famed “Seven Blocks of Granite” line and received a formation that emphasized human dignity, discipline, and the pursuit of the common good.

After coaching stops that included St. Cecilia High School in New Jersey, Fordham, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and the New York Giants, Lombardi arrived in Green Bay in 1959 to lead a struggling Packers franchise. Within two years he guided the team to consecutive NFL titles, followed by a third championship and victories in Super Bowls I and II. His overall coaching record stood at 105 wins, 36 losses, and six ties. He died in 1970 at age 57; thousands attended his funeral at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.

Lombardi’s faith was not confined to Sunday. Biographical accounts and contemporary recollections describe him as a daily communicant who attended Mass at St. Willebrord Catholic Church in Green Bay, a short walk from the Packers’ offices. He is widely remembered for telling his players that the three most important things in life were God, family, and the Green Bay Packers—in that order. His commitment to treating every person with dignity also shaped his approach to race. He refused to tolerate prejudice among his players and made it clear that local businesses that refused service to any of his players because of skin color would be boycotted by the entire team. Players who displayed prejudice risked being dropped from the roster.

In this, Lombardi lived out principles that have long been central to the Knights of Columbus: charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism grounded in the equal dignity of every person. The Order has highlighted him as one of the notable Knights whose life and work brought distinction to the organization.

Today, councils in New Jersey and Green Bay bear his name, and his example continues to resonate with Knights who seek to live their faith in the public square—whether on a football field, in a workplace, or in service to their communities. Lombardi’s story is a reminder that excellence in one’s vocation and fidelity to one’s Catholic faith are not separate pursuits but two sides of the same calling.

By: Matt Hoxsie - Sun, Oct 18, 2026 3:06 PM

Kirt Trumbia Named Knight of the Month for October

Dearborn O’Kelley Council #3680 has named Kirt Trumbia as its Knight of the Month for October 2026.

Trumbia has a long history of stepping up to serve whenever needed. He coached girls soccer at St. Sebastian while his daughters attended the school, then continued coaching them in track at both Divine Child and St. Frances Cabrini high schools. He also served on several committees for the St. Sebastian festival, assisting with finances and security cameras, and took on the large task of festival set-up and tear-down.

In addition, Trumbia served on the building committee for the council’s hall on Park Street and currently serves as an usher at St. Maria Goretti. Married for 37 years and the father of two daughters, he recently accepted the role of Financial Secretary for the council.

Council members are proud to recognize his continued dedication and service.

Vivat Jesus!

By: Matt Hoxsie - Sun, Oct 18, 2026 2:53 PM

Dearborn O’Kelley Council Provides Virgin Mary Statues to St. Anselm School

Dearborn O’Kelley Council #3860 recently purchased 14 statues of the Virgin Mary—one for each classroom at St. Anselm Catholic Grade School in Dearborn Heights, Michigan.

Before the statues were distributed to the classrooms, Fr. Hans Flondor blessed them. The gift reflects the council’s ongoing commitment to supporting Catholic education and fostering faith among the students and staff of the parish school.

Vivat Jesus!