St. Thomas the Apostle Knights of Columbus
The Knights of Columbus are the world's largest lay Catholic family service organization. As their forebears did more than a century ago, today's Knights and their families stand shoulder to shoulder in support of one another. Through their charity and their examples of their lives, they stand in service to all as witnesses to the Good News of the Gospel.
But just who are we?
We are your friends, neighbors and fellow parishioners. We sit next to you at mass; serve as Eucharistic ministers, cantors, lectors, religious education teachers, and in many other behind the scenes ways. We mow grass, provide transportation for parishioners, visit the sick and disabled, and serve on various parish committees. We raise money for several important projects, including assistance to the mentally challenged, in support of our youth programs, debt reduction for the parish, facilities support, and support for seminarians. We work at most parish functions including picnics, parties, dinners and celebrations.
We support the Catholic Church through support to others. We believe we can accomplish more as unified Catholic men than we can as individuals.
What do we do locally?
The Father John Savoca Council of approximately 170 members provides service to our families, our church and our community. We provide leadership and funding for the parish Boy Scout troop and Cub Scout pack. We host family events and fundraisers such as the monthly pancake breakfast, bus trips to Smokies' baseball games, spaghetti suppers, chili dinners, the St. Patrick's Day dinner, wine tastings and selling Christmas cards. We sponsor K of C free throw and soccer kick contests for Loudon youth. The Knights also give time, talent and treasure to community projects such as the K of C Mental Retardation Drive, Habitat for Humanity, our Hispanic community, and hot meals for shut-ins throughout the year and at Thanksgiving and Christmas. We provide financial support for diocesan seminarians and participate in Pro-Life events and Eucharistic Adoration.
In brief, we are an important and active part of St. Thomas parish life.
Who can become a Knight of Columbus?
You can! For more information on becoming a Knight, contact membership chairman Ray Mouse at 865-712-7820 or raymouse1@aol.com
4th Degree Knights of Columbus
The Pope John Paul Assembly #2920 of the Knights of Columbus consists of Knights from 4 parishes in the Diocese of Knoxville (St. Thomas the Apostle in Lenoir City, St. John Neumann in Farragut, St. Mary in Oak Ridge and St. Therese in Clinton). The 4th Degree is the face of the Knights of Columbus. Our main principle is Patriotism.
You have probably seen 4th Degree Knights serving as honor guard for the bishop, standing honor guard at wakes and funerals for deceased Knights, or in various neighborhoods parades and ceremonies.
The only requirement to become a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus is to already be a Third Degree Knight in good standing.
