The Knights of Columbus, a fraternal organization of Catholic men, has been a cornerstone of community service and charitable works for over 130 years. With over 2 million members worldwide, the Knights of Columbus is one of the largest and most respected fraternal organizations in the world. In this article, we will guide you through the process of becoming a member of this esteemed organization using Form 185, the official membership application.
Understanding the Knights of Columbus
Before we dive into the application process, it's essential to understand the Knights of Columbus's mission and values. The organization was founded in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney, a Catholic priest, with the goal of providing financial support to families of deceased members and promoting Catholic values. Today, the Knights of Columbus is dedicated to serving the Church, communities, and families through various charitable initiatives, including disaster relief, food drives, and support for the sick and the elderly.
Benefits of Membership
As a member of the Knights of Columbus, you'll enjoy numerous benefits, including:
- Spiritual growth and development through participation in Catholic events and activities
- Opportunities for community service and charitable works
- Access to exclusive insurance programs and financial services
- Participation in local, national, and international events
- Fraternal camaraderie with fellow Catholic men
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for membership in the Knights of Columbus, you must:
- Be a practicing Catholic male
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a citizen of the country where the local council is located
- Be of good moral character
Form 185: Membership Application
To apply for membership, you'll need to complete Form 185, which can be obtained from a local Knights of Columbus council or downloaded from the organization's website.
Section 1: Personal Information
In this section, you'll need to provide your personal details, including:
- Name and address
- Date of birth
- Marital status
- Occupation
Section 2: Catholic Information
Here, you'll need to provide information about your Catholic faith, including:
- Your parish and diocese
- Your confirmation date
- Your sacramental status
Section 3: Sponsorship
In this section, you'll need to provide the name and contact information of a sponsor, who must be a member of the Knights of Columbus in good standing.
Section 4: Application and Oath
Here, you'll need to sign an application and oath, stating that you're a practicing Catholic and willing to abide by the principles and rules of the Knights of Columbus.
Application Process
Once you've completed Form 185, you'll need to submit it to the local Knights of Columbus council for review and approval. The council will review your application and conduct an interview with you to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.
After Approval
Once your application is approved, you'll be invited to attend an initiation ceremony, where you'll take the oath of membership and receive a membership card. As a new member, you'll be expected to participate in local council events and activities, as well as pay annual dues.
Conclusion
Becoming a member of the Knights of Columbus is a rewarding experience that offers numerous benefits, including spiritual growth, community service, and fraternal camaraderie. By completing Form 185 and following the application process, you'll be well on your way to joining this esteemed organization.
We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences with the Knights of Columbus in the comments below. If you're interested in learning more about the organization or would like to apply for membership, please visit the Knights of Columbus website.
FAQ Section
What are the requirements for membership in the Knights of Columbus?
+To be eligible for membership, you must be a practicing Catholic male, at least 18 years old, and a citizen of the country where the local council is located.
How do I obtain Form 185?
+Form 185 can be obtained from a local Knights of Columbus council or downloaded from the organization's website.
What is the application process like?
+Once you've completed Form 185, you'll need to submit it to the local Knights of Columbus council for review and approval. The council will review your application and conduct an interview with you to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.