Parish/Knights of Columbus Celebrate the Feast of Blessed Fr. Michael J. McGivney

On Sunday, August 13, the Feast Day of Father Michael J. McGivney, St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church and Knights from the parish's Council 7399 and Assembly 3154 prayed for the sainthood of Father McGivney.

The founder of the Knights of Columbus, Father Michael J. McGivney was a central figure in the growth of Catholicism in America, and he remains a model today. His example of charity, evangelization and empowerment of the laity continues to bear fruit and guide Knights of Columbus around the world.

In his Apostolic Letter that was read at the Mass for Beatification on Oct. 31, 2020, Pope Francis stated that Blessed Michael McGivney’s “zeal for the proclamation of the Gospel and generous concern for the needs of his brothers and sisters made him an outstanding witness of Christian solidarity and fraternal assistance.” The Holy Father set his annual feast day for Aug. 13, the day between Father McGivney’s birthday (in 1852) and the day he entered eternal life (in 1890). For more about Father McGivney click on this link A Saint in the Making.

Mass was celebrated by the Pastor and Council Chaplain, Fr. Andrzej Mitera. Brother Knight Deacon Larry Hart assisted Fr. Andy; while Brother Knights Eric Gedult Von Jungenfeld and Grand Knight/Color Corps Commander Lou Manz performed the readings. Johnny Thielen, another member of the corps was a Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion.

Fr. Andy recognized the Knights of Columbus founder throughout the Mass and concluded Mass with a special blessing for all of the Knights present at the Mass. The Color Corps was well represented with Joseph Boadu, Clifford Plante, David Miller, Dan Wehby, Travis Logerwall, Eric Gedult Von Jungenfeld, and Raul Tecson participating.

Sir Knight Dave Miller greets Sir Knight Jim Pilliod and his wife Jo Ann before Mass

Members of the Color Corps pose for a photo by the Baptismal font before Mass

Sir Knight Eric Gedult Von Jungenfeld performs the Second Reading

Members of the Knights of Columbus stand for a special blessing by Fr. Andy

For more pictures, see our Facebook page.

The Grand Knight wishes to thank our Historical Photographer, Mardelle Wehby for providing photos of the event.