Today we celebrate a special Holy Day of Obligation - the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. We know that the Church teaches that Mary was born without Original Sin and remained sinless her entire life; but where can we find this belief in the Bible? As it turns out, in many places! We'll discuss them in this Bonus Dad Talk. Please share with a friend, and God bless! Dad
So many questions from today’s readings! We know Jesus is the “stump of Jesse” in the first reading from Isaiah, but how do we know that? If John the Baptist wants to encourage conversion and repentance, why did he center his ministry in the desert and the Jordan River? Matthew mentions that John wore clothing made of camel’s hair and had a leather belt; what's the purpose of this fashion statement ? John the Baptist recognizes that Jesus is greater than John, but why did he bring up Jesus’ sandals? And in Paul’s letter to the Romans, what are the “promises to the patriarchs” fulfilled in Jesus Christ? We’ll discuss the answers to these questions—and learn more about how all these readings are connected—in today’s Dad Talk. Please share with a friend, and God bless! Dad
The Michigan State Council of the Knights of Columbus has finalized plans for the 2026 Membership Tribute Banquet honoring State Deputy Barry M. Borsenik. The event will take place Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the HORIZONS Conference Center, 6200 State Street, Saginaw.
A social hour will begin at 5:00 p.m., followed by dinner and program at 6:15 p.m. Tickets are $70 per person, available on a first-come, first-served basis through the Michigan State Council Office. Reservations must be submitted with payment, and admittance is by advance reservation only. Councils, Assemblies, or groups may reserve tables of ten.
Grand Knights are encouraged to bring their Council Membership Directors, Chaplains, and spouses. During the program, the State Council will present Quick Start Awards and State Deputy Tribute Awards to qualifying councils in attendance.
A block of hotel rooms has been secured at Four Points by Sheraton Saginaw for a special rate of $99. Reservations must be made directly with the hotel prior to January 29, 2026, under the Knights of Columbus room block.
For additional details, Councils should refer to the attached letter available at this link:
Michigan Knights of Columbus Hold Winter Leadership Meeting in Lansing
Lansing, MI — December 6, 2025
The Michigan Knights of Columbus hosted their annual Winter Leadership Meeting on December 5–6 in Lansing, bringing together more than 150 District Deputies, State and Regional Directors, and members of the Michigan State Board. The two-day gathering focused on setting priorities and defining the vision for the Michigan State Council for the next six months.
The event opened with remarks from Worthy State Deputy Barry Borsenik, who welcomed attendees and outlined the importance of strong, unified leadership as the Order continues its mission of charity, unity, and fraternity across Michigan. His message emphasized renewed commitment and collaboration as key components for success in the months ahead.
Worthy State Deputy Barry Borsenik's remarks can be watch at this YouTube link:
The weekend also included a prayerful service celebrated by the State and Diocesan Chaplains, offering spiritual reflection and grounding the meeting in faith. Their presence highlighted the essential role of spiritual guidance in the Knights’ ongoing charitable work and organizational leadership.
Throughout the weekend, attendees participated in presentations, planning sessions, and discussions aimed at strengthening councils statewide and preparing for upcoming initiatives. The Winter Leadership Meeting serves as a pivotal moment each year for aligning goals, developing leadership skills, and ensuring that Knights across Michigan continue to serve their communities with dedication and purpose.
The Michigan Knights of Columbus express their gratitude to all who attended and contributed to this year’s successful meeting.
Vivat Jesus!
SD Barry Borsenik and First Lady Mandy at the meeting.
On November 3, 2025, the Coldwater Knights of Columbus voted to donate $2,500.00 to the Branch Area Food Pantry, to support those in need in and around Branch County. The Food Pantry serves over 900 families each month, and each dollar donated to the Pantry can purchase four dollars’ worth of food. Additionally, the annual Holiday Food Basket Distribution in Branch County, will be held on November 22 from 10:00a to 2:00p, which is one of the largest distribution events for the Food Pantry during the year.
The donation made by the Knights of Columbus was done in line with its mission as a Catholic fraternal organization, which among other things includes financially supporting charities and those who are in need. Both the Food Pantry and the Knights of Columbus rely on volunteer and financial donations to continue operation.
Greg Miller (President/Treasurer, Branch Area Food Pantry) accepts a $2,500.00 check from Chancelir Murdock (Grand Knight, Council 2900, Knights of Columbus)
Members and their families from Au Lac Council 10724 and neighboring Anchor Bay Council 5981 joined together on November 30th for a Corporate Communion Mass followed by fellowship in the parish hall. Father Joseph Esper, Pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Ira Township celebrated the Mass and the K of C Color Guard was present. Approximately 100 people attended the Mass and enjoyed coffee and donuts afterwards.
Happy Advent and happy Church New Year! It's that time when we prepare for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. But this preparation period is not simply to celebrate Jesus's birth; it's a time to prepare for the second coming of Jesus at the end of Time, when all people and all nations will be judged. In today’s Dad Talk, we'll discuss how today’s Advent readings instruct us to prepare. Please share with a friend, and God bless! Dad
