The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic Fraternal Organization empowering Catholic men to live their faith at home, in their parish, at work and in their community. Founded on the principles of charity, unity and fraternity, the Knights of Columbus was established in 1882 by Father Michael J McGivney, assistant pastor at St. Mary’s Church is New Haven, Connecticut and a group of parishioners. Their intent was to bring financial aid and assistance to the sick, disabled and needy members and their families. Local Knights of Columbus groups are known as councils. Bishop Muldoon Council has been in Rockford since 1900. It is the oldest council in the Rockford Diocese and is still active. While Bishop Muldoon Council does not reside at just one parish, it strives to be a part of all parishes at which there is no local council. St. James is among those parishes. In the past two years, donations of over $18,000 have been made to local organizations, including St. James, other parishes, Pregnancy Care Center of Rockford, Poor Clares, and other local non-profits.

The Knights of Columbus may be best known for serving as Honor Guard for our Bishop and special parish events and for our annual Intellectual Disabilities (tootsie roll) drive, but do so much more than that. There are many men of the parish that are currently Knights of Columbus members. They serve as lectors, commentators, cantors, and pastoral council among other roles. Men of the parish are invited to learn more about the Knights of Columbus by going to https://www.kofc.org, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or attend one of the social events.