The Story of Our Founder

Feast of Blessed Michael J McGivney

On August 13th our Order celebrates the feast day of our founder: Fr. Michael McGivney. Earlier this year, on March 29th, we celebrated founders day. On that day we wrote a short post on the Knights and it’s founding. Today, I wanted to write a bit more about who our founder was and his life. Later this week I will post an article on the Litany of Blessed Michael McGivney and the Novena to Blessed Michael McGivney.

Our Founder

Blessed Michael McGivney stands as a beacon of faith, compassion, and service, renowned for founding the Knights of Columbus, one of the world’s largest fraternal service organizations. Born on August 12, 1852, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to Irish immigrants Patrick and Mary McGivney, his life journey would be marked by a fervent dedication to the Catholic Church and a profound commitment to helping those in need.

Early Life

Michael McGivney’s early years were shaped by the struggles of immigrant life in 19th-century America. Growing up in a devout Catholic household, he imbibed the values of faith, charity, and community from his parents. Despite financial constraints, his parents prioritized his education, recognizing its importance in shaping his future. Young Michael attended the local schools, demonstrating academic promise and a compassionate heart from an early age.

In 1868, tragedy struck the McGivney family when Michael’s father passed away, leaving behind his wife and thirteen children. At the tender age of sixteen, Michael found himself thrust into a position of responsibility, shouldering the burden of caring for his grieving family. Determined to provide for his siblings and uphold his father’s legacy, Michael worked tirelessly, taking on various odd jobs to support his family while continuing his education.

Seminary and Priesthood

In pursuit of his calling to the priesthood, Michael entered St. Hyacinth College and Seminary in Quebec, Canada, where he immersed himself in theological studies and spiritual formation. Despite facing numerous challenges, including financial constraints and homesickness, his unwavering faith and determination propelled him forward. In 1877, he graduated with high honors, a testament to his intellectual prowess and steadfast dedication.

Ordained to the priesthood on December 22, 1877, in the Archdiocese of Hartford, Father McGivney embarked on his pastoral ministry with zeal and compassion. Assigned to St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Connecticut, he witnessed firsthand the plight of Catholic immigrant families struggling in the wake of industrialization and social upheaval. Inspired by his own experiences and guided by the principles of charity and solidarity, Father McGivney envisioned an organization that would provide spiritual support, financial assistance, and fraternal bonds to Catholic men and their families.

Founding of the Order

In 1882, Father McGivney’s vision became a reality with the establishment of the Knights of Columbus. Founded as a mutual aid society, the organization aimed to unite Catholic men in a shared commitment to charity, unity, and fraternity. Drawing inspiration from the principles of chivalry and the teachings of the Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus quickly grew, offering a lifeline to countless individuals and families facing adversity.

As Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, Father McGivney led with humility, wisdom, and compassion, guiding the organization through periods of growth, adversity, and transformation. Under his leadership, the Knights expanded their charitable endeavors, providing financial assistance to widows and orphans, supporting parishes and schools, and advocating for the rights and dignity of all people, especially the marginalized and vulnerable.

Legacy

Father McGivney’s legacy extends far beyond the boundaries of the Knights of Columbus. He was a tireless advocate for social justice, championing the rights of workers, immigrants, and the poor. His commitment to the sanctity of life and the dignity of every human person earned him the admiration and respect of people from all walks of life.

Tragically, Father McGivney’s life was cut short at the age of just 38, when he succumbed to pneumonia on August 14, 1890. Though his earthly journey may have ended, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched and the enduring impact of his legacy. In recognition of his holiness and virtue, Father McGivney was declared “Blessed” by Pope Francis on October 31, 2020, a testament to his exemplary life of faith, service, and love.

Today, Blessed Michael McGivney’s legacy continues to inspire millions of people around the world to live lives of faith, charity, and fraternity. Through the work of the Knights of Columbus and the countless individuals and organizations that have been touched by his example, his vision of a world where every person is valued, supported, and loved continues to flourish. As we honor his memory and celebrate his beatification, let us strive to emulate his virtues and carry forward his mission of building a more just, compassionate, and inclusive society for all.