KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

a US Roman Catholic organization with branches also in Canada, Mexico and other countries. It was established in 1881 in New Haven, Connecticut , by Father Michael McGivney, and the main office is still there. Its aim is to help members and their families who are in need, to give to charity and also to create pride in the Catholic religion. The Knights of Columbus is now an important service organization and in 2004 had more than 1.6 million members.