Father Michael J. McGivney, who was the assistant pastor of St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Connecticut, officially chartered the Knights of Columbus as a fraternal benefit society on March 29, 1882. The Order still holds true to its founding principles of charity, unity, and fraternity.

The Knights of Columbus was formed to render financial aid to members and their families. Mutual aid and assistance are offered to sick, disabled, and needy members and their families. The social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious, social welfare, war relief, and public relief works.

The history of the Order shows how the foresight of Father McGivney brought about what has become the world’s foremost Catholic fraternal benefit society and has helped families obtain economic security and stability through its life insurance, annuity, and long-term care programs, and has contributed time and energy worldwide to service in communities.

The Knights of Columbus has grown from several members in one council to more than 13,000 councils and 1.7 million members around the world.

Father McGivney cause for sainthood is currently being investigated by the Vatican.