St. Isidore’s Knights of Columbus: service, faith, brotherhood

Council #8511 is very active at St. Isidore’s sponsoring several events every semester. Hosting a pancake breakfast, meatless soup suppers during Lent, a Mexican dinner, serving food for the marriage preparation retreat, putting together finals week care packages and helping raise money for the mentally disabled through Tootsie Roll sales are just a few of the ways they stay busy and add to the community at St. Isidore’s. The Knights also participate in activities to raise the camaraderie of the group, like Gorgefest (going to a local restaurant and eating a lot of cheap food and hanging out) and paintball.

"Besides the fun events like paintball, I probably enjoy the dinners and breakfast we put on at the Center. I feel that it brings St. Isidore’s a little closer," said Joe Metzen, junior in agricultural economics from Clonmel, Kan. "The preparation time is a great opportunity to get to know some of the other Knights better."

For many of the men, choosing to become a Knight is a way to build Catholic brotherhood and to learn how to become a strong Catholic man. Being a Knight has also been a tradition in many of their families for generations.

"I became a Knight because I saw what great things they do for the Church and community. It is a great organization building fraternity between Catholic gentlemen as well," said Kevin Lager, junior in animal science from Grinnell, Kan. "Being a Knight is also a family tradition. I saw what great examples my father and grandfathers were and the great work they had done."

The Knights not only participate in many service and community building events, they also have an opportunity to take on a leadership role within the organization. Chris Baalmann, senior in construction science and management from Wichita, Kan. serves as Grand Knight. The Grand Knight is responsible for conducting the meetings and making sure that all goes well, said Baalmann.

Along side of the Grand Knight, the Chancellor, Metzen, is responsible for recruiting and retaining members, writing the newsletter and sending e-mail reminders to brother Knights. Other leadership roles include Recorder, Deputy Grand Knight, Treasurer and Financial Secretary.

"The best part of being a Knight is the other guys who are Knights. We have a great time working together and having fun together. You become friends with your brother Knights and know that they will be there for you," said Metzen.

Being a Knight at St. Isidore’s does not only mean serving the community, but also learning how to grow in the faith and become a better Catholic man.

"Our Knights of Columbus Council has always been a joy to work with over the years. We have had many outstanding young men involved with the Knights," said Father Keith Weber, St. Isidore’s Chaplain. "This year, once again, we have a tremendous council. The guys in our council always have a fun time whenever they get together. They are definitely an asset to our community here at St. Isidore’s."

For more information about the St. Isidore’s Knights of Columbus, call 785-539-7496.