Members of a local Knights of Columbus council gathered May 30 to mark a special milestone – a century of faith, fellowship and service in Carneys Point.
Bishop Joseph Williams joined members and supporters for a Mass at Saint Gabriel the Archangel Parish to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Knights of Columbus Father Cannon Council 2607.
“This council has existed for 100 years due to the strength of our members and the assistance they provide,” said Scott Greenwald, the council’s former grand knight who now serves as a New Jersey District Deputy for District 52, which includes Carneys Point. “There is a sense of pride, not in ‘look what we have done’, but in knowing that we have made a difference to those in need.”
The Mass, which was celebrated in Corpus Christi Church, also included a display of memorabilia and awards to showcase the council’s legacy of service and impact. The council’s first honor was for the 1936-1937 fraternal year, and its first Star Council Award was the 2010-2011 year.
“We have earned numerous awards and honors since, including our current run of seven consecutive Star Council Awards,” said Greenwald. “We have also increased the opportunity for prayer by hosting monthly Holy Hours, the Knights Pilgrim Icon – currently the Sacred Heart of Jesus – and Silver Rose, and cohosting with our Columbiettes Auxiliary Friday evening Stations of the Cross during Lent.”
“The cooperative effort translates to a real collaboration in meeting the needs of the parish and community,” he said.
Larry VanAtta, who serves as the council’s grand knight, emphasized the fellowship and sense of accomplishment that members enjoy.
“Becoming a Knight has been a lifelong dream, and I am truly honored to join this distinguished tradition,” he said. “I am excited to stand alongside my fellow Knights and uphold the values of charity, unity and fraternity that form the foundation of our order. I look forward to serving our community and helping our order continue to grow and thrive.”
VanAtta also expressed the council’s appreciation for support from clergy. “The support from the pulpit is, without question, exceptional, and has played a vital role in the success and growth of our order.”
Greenwald, who has been a Knight of Columbus for 13 years, first joined to follow in the footsteps of his father-in-law, and with the encouragement of friends.
“Our council strives to provide help, not only to our parish and priests, but to our extended community here in Salem County,” he said. “Along with our Columbiettes Auxiliary, we work together in a cooperative way to show what it means to be Catholic, a brother Knight, a sister Columbiette. As Jesus has taught us – I come to serve, not to be served.”
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