State Deputy Francis Mohr Council 0849 Baker City State Chaplain Fr. Theo Lange Council 15595 Mt. Angel Abbey Asst. State Chaplain V. Rev. Todd Unger Council 3636 Redmond Imm. Past SD Sid Thiel Council 9137 Sherwood State Secretary Ron Boyce Council 3591 Tigard State Treasurer Steve Steele Council 6266 Beaverton State Advocate Michael Rooke Council 9137 Sherwood State Warden Thomas Radel Council 1577 Albany

Worthy Brother Knights and Families, I had the opportunity to hear Fr. Amalraj’s homily at St. Anthony Parish in Tigard last weekend and he nailed this Season of Advent right on the head!! I can’t quote exactly, but I recall he stressed a Season of Preparation; we renew our friendships and strengthen those friendships as we prepare for the coming of the Messiah. I know he also mentioned something about making new friendships and that just adds to the joy of Christmas. It was not heavy theology. It’s not a hard way to live!! It was so straight forward; so easy to comprehend. That could be every day, not just Advent Season. Why not?? And then my mind ‘slipped away’ from the remainder of his homily as I started to relate how establishing friendships, building Unity and Fraternity, led to the formation of the Knights of Columbus.

We are believers of the same message that was revealed that night in Bethlehem. “Peace on Earth, good will to all men.” We share a common value. Most likely we share a common desire: “Love the Lord and Love one another as ourselves.” Oregon had a good start “out of the gate” July 1st. Thirty four Catholic men said I want to be “A Laborer in My Father’s vineyards.” They heard the message: “In my Father’s Vineyards there is much work to be done, but the laborers are few.” And then additional members dropped off! I also started to receive letters from Supreme Office with a list of suspensions. Why? Has everyone reached out, and made a new friend? Have you strengthened existing friendships? Have you asked a new friend to help with an activity your Council is doing for the Parish or Community? Have you asked him if he would like to join you in this Catholic Men’s Group that extends the Bethlehem Message? Have you shared with him that you have grown in your faith because of the Unity and Fraternity you experience? Wouldn’t that parishioner also appreciate the same satisfaction you do when you all finish an activity and you realize someone has benefited because of your efforts? Have you asked him? I encourage everyone to make this Advent Season special. Do you have an Advent Wreath on your dining room table? Perhaps a different member of the family lights the candle each night? Have you made some new friendships this Advent Season? As a Knight of Columbus you are ‘part-owner’ of a very great organization. As Jose Jimenez, who was our Supreme Director at the Salem Convention said: “It’s a great organization, don’t let it die”. We all can help add a member and keep it growing! On behalf of my wife Tay, we wish everyone a Merry and Blessed Christmas. Vivat Jesus!!

Francis Mohr Oregon State Deputy francis_mohr@msn.com Ph: Home—541-523-6245 Ph: Cell—541-519-6606

The Columbian© Newsletter Serving The Oregon Councils of the Knights of Columbus

The Monthly Newsletter of the Oregon State Council of the Knights of Columbus

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017

State Deputy Francis Mohr

Page 1

State Chaplain Report Dear Brother Knights and Families,

This holy Season of Advent and then Christmas, reminds us of our call to holiness. In the midst of reindeer, candy canes, elves, the narrative of this time communicates fanciful critters and creatures, that frankly, for most people are a major distraction from Advent and Christmas. Nativity scenes, Advent wreaths, beautiful Christmas music, Christmas plays, prayer, charitable works, fasting, are all components that work together to form an adequate narrative that puts Christ at the center of Christmas and thus our lives. Christ came to deliver us from sin, revealing

the tenderness of God, showing us how to live a life of humility, given for others, and invites us into a Christ-way-of-living.

To be a Christian is more than a set of beliefs, it is a way of life animated by the Holy Spirit. A life that simply and so concretely expresses a way of life that is the fruit of an encounter with Jesus. This Advent and then Christmas Season, Christ comes to encounter you. As the manger was prepared for the Blessed Mother to lovingly place the newborn Child Savior, our hearts are to be prepared to receive the tenderness of the Love of God and the gift of eternal life.

Our joy then, Brothers, is to receive the tender love of God and the gift of eternal life then to live Charity, Fraternity, Unity and Patriotism. The pillars of our spirituality will prepare our hearts, our lives, our families, and our parishes, to receive Christ with gratitude and joy at Christmas while keeping Christ at the very center of our lives every day. This holy season may be a good time to invite a brother in the Lord to become a brother Knight of Columbus so more Catholic men are invited to know God's love for them and for them to share this love through concrete works. Brothers, remain in His Love, as His Love is so clearly revealed in the Christ-Child!

Vivat Jesus!

Your servant in His love,

Fr. Theo Lange State Chaplain

Star Council Award Presented

State Deputy Francis Mohr presented Grand Knight Brian Fihn of Tigard Council 3591 with his Star Council Award for the past Fraternal Year during a dinner on the evening of Saturday December 2nd.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 2

Fr. Theodore Lange State Chaplain

In turn, Grand Knight Brian Fihn then presented their Council Knight of the Year Award to Brother Steve Root, Council 3591.

ADVENT: OUR REUNION Advent: it’s that time each year for us to prepare for that reunion of God’s gift of His Son in the Christmas season. This annual event with its familiar symbols lets us drop quickly in to the frame of mind of “prepare Ye the way of the Lord”. What we try to avoid is that it is just another part of the preparation of Christmas, when in reality it is its own special time. First what are the symbols of this season? The Advent wreath, that circular evergreen with its four candles, three purple and one rose, with the fifth one, white, in the middle. Each candle for each week of the Advent season. The wreath gives us a sense of anticipation of something special to come. Each candle, is a symbol of Christ—the light of the world, coming soon to us. The fifth candle, the Christ candle, celebrating the purity of God’s gift to the world and the concrete path to our salvation that is now available. The Nativity scene, another symbol of anticipation. The scene that reminds us of Jesus’ humble birth.

This scene is set up piece by piece, not in one day, but over the whole season, and carries over to the Christmas season to Epiphany with the Wise men arriving. Reunions are much anticipated events, whether it be of family gatherings or old friends getting together to remember the past. This reunion of the Advent season is not just to remember the times in the past of Christ’s first coming, but the ongoing coming in our lives and the second coming at the end of time. In this reunion of meeting Christ in the Advent season, let us always keep it fresh and new each year. In this way we use this Advent season to renew the promise that is always remembered in the Christmas event, of God’s plan of salvation in each of our lives. Fraternally, Fr. Todd Unger Oregon Knights of Columbus Assistant State Chaplain

Council In Action

Canby Knights of Columbus (Council 3484) - California Wildfires Relief, continued from November,2017 Submitted by Duane Kloser, PGK

The Catholic Church teaches us to “Love our neighbor as ourselves,” and Charity is one of the 4 Principles set forth by the Knights of Columbus. We can all agree this is what we want to do, but how do we put our faith and words into some form of action? We pray for guidance, we ask God to direct us and when the phone rings, when a fellow Knight calls us and says, “We need help” we are ready and willing to do the work.

Recently, one of our members, Mike Gorka received that phone call. A friend of his in Cloverdale, California was in need. The residents of this small community in Northern California had suffered unbelievable losses from the wildfires that had ravaged their community and many others. Mike called on us, his fellow Knights at St. Patrick’s for assistance. Within 24 hours the Knights were collecting donations and formulating a plan to get them to the people in need.

Duane Kloser and Jesse Villarreal kept track of all monetary donations. Jesse and Gregory Perez drove thirteen hundred miles (more than 12 hours) to deliver food, bedding, personal hygiene items and household goods. They were witness to the destruction and devastation to this entire town. The volunteers who received the donations were grateful beyond measure and Greg and Jesse were humbled to be a part of this rescue mission. They were proud to tell everyone they were Knights and to be there, showing God’s love in action for those in need.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 3

Fr. Todd Unger Assistant

State Chaplain

“The United States of America is indeed the land of Mary Immaculate.”

Did You Know?

The United States Bishops, in the year 1846, chose the Blessed Virgin Mary under her title of the Immaculate Conception as the patroness of the United States of America. This is why we have the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.

Here are the words of the bishops’ decree on May 13, 1846: “With enthusiastic acclaim and with unanimous approval and consent, the Fathers [of the Baltimore Council] have chosen the Blessed Virgin Mary, conceived without sin, as the Patroness of the United States of America.”

The choice of Our Lady in her Immaculate Conception as Patroness of the United States was approved by Pope Pius IX on February 7, 1847. What is interesting is that the American Bishops chose this title of Mary as the patroness of the United States, by requesting special permission from the Holy Father to do so, before the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary became infallible dogma for the universal Church. In fact, this request of the U.S. bishops to the Holy See to promote or claim this title of Our Lady may have been a significant contributing factor to the later declaration of the dogma. On December 8, 1854, eight years after the American bishops chose Mary Immaculate as their patroness, Pope Pius IX solemnly declared the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary to be an article of faith in his Apostolic Constitution Ineffabilis Deus. Even more interestingly, the flagship of Christopher Columbus’ expedition to the New World, the Santa Maria, had a full name of Santa Maria de la Inmaculada Concepcion (Holy Mary of the Immaculate Conception). The other ships, the Niña (little girl) and the Pinta (painted one) foreshadows Our Lady of Guadalupe, the first Marian apparition in the New World which would occur two centuries later.

Sid Thiel Immediate Past State Deputy Ph: 503-610-1595 Cell: 503-860-5968 Fax: 503-610-1595 kcbooster@comcast.net

FORWARD INTO THE BREACH

STAR COUNCIL – FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 4

Sid Thiel Immediate Past State Deputy

Council In Action

On December 8, 2017 the Corvallis Knights of Columbus Council 1785 gave away money and lunch. As Knights we are here to change lives and to save lives in our community and in our world. We were honored

and grateful to have the chance to share our bounty and blessings and gifts to help others fulfill their mission to help others.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), the voice of children in our courts in Linn County, represented by

Executive Director Julie Gilman, and CASA in Benton County, represented by Executive Director Kari Rieck, received checks.

The Council also gave to Habitat for Humanity, in Benton County who were represented by Family Services

Coordinator Tabitha Ciulla and President Joe Whinnery, who received a check from the Knights of Columbus to support their mission to help others who are in need.

CASA and Habitat are not the only agencies who have received money from the Corvallis Knights of Columbus,

but they are the ones we served today. Many thanks to Brother Peter Sabatino for getting us all together to do God’s will through charity for children

and families.

Peter Sabatino, Julie Gilman, Joe Whinnery, Kari Rieck, and Emmet Jones,

Grand Knight, Council 1785, Corvallis, Oregon, on December 8, 2017

Council In Action Submitted by: Kenneth Anderson, DD7

Lebanon Council 3184 welcomed one new member on December 7th and the Council showed amazing support for this new member by attending.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 5

Holy Family Icon Presented to the Parish of St. Mary’s (Albany) Submitted by: Jon Keefer, GK

On the weekend of November 11/12, 2017, the Sir Knights of Albany Council 1577 and Assembly 906 presented the Holy Family Icon to the Parish of St. Mary’s (Albany).

The start of the Holy Family Prayer program began with the blessing of two smaller Icons that will remain at St. Mary’s and rotate through the families of the parish to inspire them to pray as a family.

The first of the smaller Icons went to the home of Ken and Suzie Duda, the State Family of the Year, Fraternal Year 2016-2017.

The second icon went to the family of SK Jorge and Martha Lopez-Gonzalez. Jorge was the State Knight of the Year, Fraternal Year 2016-2017.

The families returned the icons after two weeks so that it could be shared with another family. The large icon is being rotated to other Councils/Districts in the western half of Oregon. Photos of this event are available at: https://1drv.ms/f/s!AjHcJhfKy2DHwzJ_J9HzoNCkU77u

Jon Keefer, Grand Knight Council 1577 Albany Keeferj2@comcast.net http://kofcknights.org/CouncilSite/?CNO=1577 https://www.facebook.com/albanyknights Supreme Theme – “Convinced of God’s Love” State Theme - “In His Love”

Council In Action

Puerto Rico Hurricane Relief Fundraising Results

The Wilsonville St. Cyril Council 15640 of the Knights of Columbus received $385 from the donated cans/bottles, as well as $415 in donated cash. A check for $800 has been submitted to the Knights of Columbus Charity, earmarked for the Puerto Rico Hurricane Relief Effort.

The Knights are grateful for the generosity shown by their parishioners in supporting this worthy cause.

Council In Action

Profession of final vows, Sisters of the Society of Mary

On December 9th, 2017, three Sisters of the Society of Mary; Sr. Bernadette, Sr. Isabel and Sr. Teresa, made their profession of final vows at St Mary’s in Corvallis. Fr. Maximo asked the Knights of Columbus, Corvallis Council 1785, to participate in the role of ushers at the mass. There were six Knights of the Council, including Bob Kish, Past State Deputy, and three Past Grand Knights of the Council who served in this role throughout the mass. The Corvallis Council has utilized our light blue blazers for many years and in this case we were pleased to blend into the blue of the Society of Mary. After the mass, at the reception, I reminded one of the Sisters that whenever she needs assistance, to look behind her to see if a Knight is waiting for something to do that would help. We are not always in blue but we often will be there, servants of our Holy Mother. Emmet Jones, GK Council 1785, Corvallis

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 6

Family Director Report Hello My Brothers: First off, congratulations to Brother Kenneth Taylor and his family of Fr. Luke O’Donnell Council 6266. They were selected as a Family of the Month winner, from those submitted to Supreme from throughout the country. Sadly, only 7 Councils in Oregon submitted a family to Supreme. I encourage you all, to recognize a

Family of the Month each month. It is such an easy, yet rewarding way to recognize a Brother and his family for their hard work and dedication. Be sure, also, to claim your 200 points for doing so on your monthly activity report. My 6 year old reminded me yesterday before his bedtime that there were only 2 more weeks until Christmas. So much to do, so little time, but let’s not forget what is truly important. Father Robert Wolfe, my pastor here at St. Monica’s in Coos Bay, talked to me yesterday about Faith. Faith is much about relationships, and this is a perfect time of year to focus on our relationships. First of course, our relationship with Our Lord Jesus Christ and His Holy Family, as we prepare for his coming in this beautiful season of Advent. But also, Faith is much about our relationship with our own family and loved ones. Simple activities spent as a family can strengthen this family bond. Spend some time together decorating your church or perhaps going to a penance service together. Pray a family rosary or perhaps just spend some time retelling past Christmas stories. If some of your family is away for Christmas, be sure to set aside time, when all of you are not in a rush, to talk and share your love. If there is a member of your family, perhaps even you, where your family relationship could possibly use some mending, use this beautiful time of year to heal your hearts. Lastly, I encourage all of our Councils to celebrate the Consecration to the Holy Family on December 31st . It is our hope, as Knights of Columbus, that praying together on this day will strengthen our families and our parishes. Details, along with the prayer, can be found on the Knights of Columbus website at: http://www.kofc.org/en/domestic-church/parish-programs/holy-family-consecration.html#/ From my family to you and yours, wishing you a faith filled, warm and joyous, Merry Christmas. Bob Adams DD12 Oregon State Family Programs Director Home: 1-541-756-2171

bob.adams@ bayareahospital.org

.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 7

Bob Adams Family Director

Speak Life 18—Pro Life Rallies

On Monday, November 27, 2017, Jeff Jimerson, Oregon Life United <jeff@oregonlifeunited.org> wrote to Ron Boyce, Oregon Knights of Columbus State Secretary. Speak Life! ‘18 is an exciting series of pro-life rallies near Portland, Salem and Medford on January 21 and 22 — the 45th anniversary of Roe v. Wade.

You are invited to hear former Governor of Arkansas, Mike Huckabee, our keynote speaker for all three rallies. Mike Huckabee is a former Governor of Arkansas and U.S. Presidential candidate. Along with Gov. Huckabee, the indoor rallies will feature local pastors, elected officials and pro-life leaders who will speak truth and life over our state. Additionally, powerful testimony will be shared about finding healing and forgiveness after abortion.

Admission tickets for Speak Life! ‘18 will go on sale December 20th for $20 each. Go to the following link to see more information: https://www.oregonlifeunited.org/speaklife/

Sponsorship Opportunities

Several options to become a personal or business sponsor of Speak Life! ‘18 are now available, most of which include admission to a special pre-event reception with Gov. Huckabee. You can choose to attend whichever rally is most convenient for you. The window of opportunity to become a sponsor closes on Dec. 20. With your support, Speak Life! ‘18 will allow us to raise awareness, involvement, and funding needed for Petition #1 — the Stop Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act — to qualify and win on the November, 2018 ballot.

Thank you in advance for helping us start the new year strong as we press forward on our mission to pass Oregon’s FIRST pro-life law.

For life and liberty,

Jeff Jimerson Director, Oregon Life United

P.S. Have you signed Petition #1 yet? Find out instantly by searching your name at www.StopTheFunding.org/have-i-signed/.

About Oregon Life United

Oregon Life United is a non-partisan, non-denominational political action committee (PAC) with a simple mission: Pass our state’s first-ever law to protect women and babies from abortion.

Contributions qualify for the Oregon Political Tax Credit,

up to $50 for individuals and $100 for couples filing taxes together.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 8

Assembly In Action In Florence, Assembly 3656 joined in the annual Veterans Day Parade on November 11, 2017. Thomas Zahara, GK Council Florence

District 7 Appoints District Warden Submitted by: DD7 Kenneth Anderson III

Stephen Radel has volunteered to be District Warden/Ceremonial Chairman for District 7. He previously served as District Deputy of District 7 in the past before his brother, State Warden, Tom Radel. He also served as District Warden for then DD7 Tom Radel, for a year and is ready to serve again. His home Council is Albany 1577 where he's currently the Council Ceremonials Chairman and is responsible for all of their Council Admissions Degrees. Welcome back Stephen.

Council In Action Submitted by: Duane Kloser PGK

2017 St. Patrick’s Santa Claus Breakfast (Council 3484)

Several members of the Canby Knights of Columbus helped other St Patrick Parishioners prepare and serve over 100

guests at the annual Santa Claus Breakfast. After the breakfast, everyone enjoyed singing Christmas carols and the kids

had a chance to talk to Santa about what they wanted for Christmas.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 9

Knights of Columbus 2018 State Convention

Brother Knights and Councils, District 7 and its five Councils will be hosting the 2018 State Convention at the Boulder Falls Inn and Conference Center in Lebanon, OR. A Convention Information Book will be distributed to all Delegates attending the 2018 State Convention. The book will be included in their Convention bag. The information book will include maps of the area, a bit of history of Lebanon, Albany, Sweet Home, Corvallis and OSU. Also included will be a list of restaurants, attractions, and shopping in both Linn and Benton Counties and other valuable information for attendees. The book will not only be informational in nature and to get Councils familiar with each other, it will also help the hosting district to generate some funds to help pay for the cost of the Convention and especially allow Knights who do have a business a chance to advertise to the entire state. We will also be making polo shirts (pictured below) available to all who attend the Convention. We are asking Councils and businesses if they would like to help sponsor the polo shirts and have their Council or business's logo on the back of the shirts below the Convention logo. Sponsorship will include a half page ad in the Convention information book. Any Council, person, business or organization may submit a picture or advertisement for publication in the 2018 KofC Convention Information Book (excluding competing Insurance Companies & Financial Institutions). The sponsor form is below. Thank you for your time Knights of Columbus, District 7

OREGON KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 110th ANNUAL CONVENTION Sponsor Form

Logo on the Convention polo shirt + Half Page ad in Convention book Business Logo and ad = $300____ Convention book Full Page (8-1/2”x11”) = $100____ Half Page (8-1/2”x5-1/2”) = $50____ Quarter Page (4-1/4”x5-1/2”) = $25____ 1/8 Page (Business Card) = $15____ Any business may submit a photograph or business advertisement for publication in the Convention Yearbook (excluding competing Insurance Companies & Financial Institutions). Pictures/Ads should be in print ready format (color preferred) Please provide MS WORD, PDF, JPEG, TIFF or Camera Ready Artwork. Maintain at least a half-inch (1/2”) perimeter margin on all sides Refer all questions to Tom Radel – (541)-974-5716 DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION IS March 1, 2018 Logos and ad can be emailed to: Thomas Radel twilldel@comcast.net ************************************************************************************************** (Please PRINT Legibly) Business Ad in Convention Book_____ Business logo on back of the polo shirt_____ Name: __________________________________________ Business Name: _________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ Phone:( ) ____________ E-Mail:___________________________________ Make Checks Payable to: Knights of Columbus Mail Payment and form to: Thomas Radel State Warden / Convention Chairman 1737 NW Laura Vista Dr. Albany, OR 97321

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 10

Food for Families

The other day I needed my daily coffee fix so I stopped by the nearest McDonald’s Restaurant. A large coffee cost $1.00.

Next to me in line was someone most people would identify as homeless. I observed that he appeared to be hungry and

needed food. Being Catholic, I was brought up with a Biblical challenge to “feed the hungry”. I offered to buy him a

meal.

While this was an isolated event, it occurred to me that I could feed the hungry daily for the cost of a McDonald’s coffee.

I made my 2018 New Year’s Resolution to do just that. I resolved to donate to a food bank $1.00 per day. At the end of

the month I will send a check to the food bank for the amount of $1.00 times the number of days in the month.

I projected that my annual donation to the food bank will be $365.00 for the year. The food bank can purchase $7.00 to

$10.00 of food for each $1.00 donated. My $1.00 donation per day will produce annually between $2,555.00 and

$3,650.00 of food.

Join me in 2018 in supporting your local food bank in any way you can. Collectively, we can change lives and save lives.

Dick Akins, Brother Knight of Knights of the Resurrection Council 13851 (Financial Secretary) Sir Knight of Archbishop Fulton J Sheen Assembly 3248 (Faithful Navigator) Oregon State Chairman – Food for Families 6420 Sorrel Way West Linn, OR 97068-2214 503-358-0816 dickakins@comcast.net

Council Director Report Brother Knights all,

A very Merry Christmas and an early Happy New Year.

We have done great things this past calendar year, so let's start out the new year with a bang. One of these things we need to get off to a good start—the Grand Knights appointing a Knight in your Council to report your activities to the state each month.

Another important item is to start by giving credit to a Knight, Lady of a Knight and a Family of the Month each month

Please let us know what's going on in your Council. This is where the activity reporting is greatly needed.

As a personal request, District Deputies, please help your Councils with their reporting. Help them to help themselves!

Paul Crawford Council Director paul57@canby.com

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 11

2018 New Year’s Resolution

Buy a cup of coffee each day

for someone who is homeless.

Paul Crawford Council Director

Knightline If you did not receive or have lost your current edition of Knightline, please copy the following and paste into your web browser: http://kofc.org/un/en/resources/lc/knightline/knightline_20171201_en.pdf to view this edition.

Missionaries to the Homeless

Matthew Ch. 25, v. 35 – v. 36: For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger

and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.

The Resurrection Catholic Knights of Columbus Council 13851, Tualatin, OR has understood Matthew Ch. 25 to say we

should all become Missionaries to the Homeless and provide for the naked by providing a sleeping bag. This is our 10th

year providing sleeping bags to the homeless of the greater Portland, OR area. Over the past 10 years we have provided

over 3,000 new sleeping bags at a combined cost in excess of $60,000.00 to various organizations who are providing

assistance to the homeless.

The beneficiaries of the sleeping bag program include Rose Haven, an organization that supports battered women and

their families; St. Andre Bessette Church known as Downtown Chapel on Burnside that serves the need of the homeless

West of the Willamette River; St. Francis Catholic Church on the east side of the Willamette River and serves the needs

of the homeless in East Portland; NightStrike, a Protestant church serving the needs of the homeless underneath the

Burnside Bridge every Thursday evening. Resurrection Catholic Parish Life-Teens participate in the NightStrike program

on an annual basis. When the need arises, we give sleeping bags to the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Resurrection

Catholic Parish; Volunteers of America also received sleeping bags. This organization addresses the needs of former

addicts and tries to integrate them into society and Impact Northwest serving the needs of women in crisis (YWCA). We

have donated sleeping bags to the Episcopal Church on Clay Street in downtown Portland that addresses the needs of

the homeless youth from ages 14 to 24 (this program is known as the Underground). We also donate sleeping bags to a

non-sectarian program called New Answers for Youth which serves the needs of the homeless youth on the east side of

Portland. Finally we give sleeping bags to three parish churches who serve the needs of the homeless – St. Cyril Church

in Wilsonville, St. Francis Church in Sherwood and St. Anthony Church in Tigard.

The funding for the sleeping bags come from a variety of sources: West Linn Lions Club; St. Vincent de Paul Society Chapter of Resurrection Catholic Parish; Assured Life Association (Rose City Camp #77); Odd Fellow Lodges of Mt. Scott/Star #188 and the Samaritan Lodge #2; Knights of the Resurrection Council 13851; Omaha Woodmen Lodge 1946 and Fulton J Sheen Assembly (4th Degree Knights). Resurrection Catholic Parish and many individual parishioners from Resurrection Catholic Parish and others also contribute on an annual basis. As is often said, “For every two sleeping bags donated you save one life”. We have saved over 1500 lives in the past 10 years. Join us in fulfilling the KofC goals to “Change Lives and Save Lives” of strangers.

Richard L Akins, Co-Chairman Charles Cloud, Co-Chairman

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 12

THOUGHTS OF VOCATIONS

REFUND SUPPORT VOCATIONS PROGRAM (RSVP}

I would like to thank Tigard 3591, Albany 1577, Portland 12656, Beaverton 6266, Aumsville 8270 and Mt. Angel 1767 Councils for their participation in RSVP in time for the Holyday festivities. For some of our Seminarians, it means a way to go home, to others, gifts for family members, and to others, some assistance with their tuition. I hope there are other Councils, who may not be following Supreme’s

RSVP procedure, but are continuing to support other Seminarians. I still have two Seminarians who have requested support and two new Seminarians who are studying for the Archdiocese of Portland. These men would be thankful for your support. Please contact me if you are interested. Since last year, I have been given the task of following the Councils who are involved in RSVP, primarily to prevent any duplication of our support. However, since the procedure is not always being followed, I have no way of determining which Seminarians are being supported. If your Council is unaware of the correct RSVP procedures, please notify me and a copy will be sent to you. It has been distributed at the Winter meeting for DD's and at the Convention as well as being printed in the Columbian. Currently we have 163 Seminarians from around the world at the Abbey, three studying for the Archdiocese of Baker and twenty-five for the Archdiocese of Portland. Several are being supported by two or three Councils, while others go unsupported. Please contact me for assistance or let me know who you are supporting. I have been asked by Councils, how to contact their Seminarian. Each is given an email address, first name, last name@mtangel.edu. However, the majority have a Facebook page, which includes photos and a chat page with direct communication. We also have Seminarians studying in Rome, so, your avenue of communication of spiritual support is very important.

Remember, “NO ONE IS BORN A PRIEST" Vivat Jesus Dr. George Vennes State Chairman for Vocation and Decency 3756 NW Kaiser Rd Portland, OR 97229 gvennes@yahoo.com

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 13

Dr. George Vennes Vocations Chairman

Seminary Benefit Dinner Brother Knights,

Share the light of faith at the 9th Annual Eugene Seminary Benefit Dinner. Gather for an evening of fellowship

with your Seminarians on Sunday, March 4, 2018, at the Eugene Hilton. I am asking you and your Council to get involved in this most worthy event. Here is your opportunity to be part

of a very exciting, fun and sometimes emotional evening. Please present this to your Council and ask other Knights to attend. Also, please spread the word around your

Parish. We need to let more people know about the Eugene Benefit Dinner. You will also find below, the formal and more detailed invitation and instructions on how your Council can get

involved. My hope is that every Council that reads this letter, sponsors a table. Let’s show Monsignor Betschart and all the Seminarians up on the hill how supportive the Oregon Knights of Columbus can be. God Bless and Thank You for your consideration Brothers. Fraternally,

Robert J. Kish Jr. Oregon Past State Deputy President, Oregon State KofC Charites, Inc

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 14

Winter Fund Drive Brother Knights,

The end of the year is fast approaching. This year we are promoting a “Winter Fund Drive”. You still have time to make your donation to our State Charities and receive a tax deduction. We have made it very easy for you to Change Lives and Save Lives with several methods of donating and allowing you to choose exactly which charity or cause you would

like to support. You can give online, by credit card, check or even through estate planning. Just go to our website for simple instructions.

www.oregonstatekofccharities.org

Start by going to the Oregon State KofC Charites, Inc. website and click on the “SUPPORT US” tab at the top or the "DONATE" button on the bottom. There you will find the options and detailed instructions on how you can make a difference right here in Oregon. Please know that 100% of your donation will be used for the programs you designate. Thank you for your generous donation.

Fraternally,

PSD Bob Kish President, Oregon State KofC Charites, Inc.

Culture of Life

Patrick & Teresita Parson, Culture of Life Couple, Oregon Knights of Columbus

Stop the Funding of Abortion in Oregon

We hope all Councils are still gathering signatures for the Stop Taxpayer Funding For Abortion

In Oregon petition. We still need thousands more signatures to make it on the ballot. People who are not sure if they

have already signed can find out by going to the Oregon Life United website: https://www.stopthefunding.org/

Oregon Right-to-Life Memorial & March 2018

Oregon Right to Life is holding the annual Roe v. Wade Memorial & March on Sunday, January 14, 2018, at 2:30 p.m. in

the Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland. One of the featured speakers will be Archbishop Alexander Sample. Please

consider attending as individuals or as Councils to show your support. More information is at: https://www.ortl.org/roe-

v-wade-memorial-2018/

Speak Life! ’18

Speak Life! ‘18 is a series of pro-life rallies sponsored by Oregon Life United. The keynote speaker for each rally is former

Arkansas Governor / U.S. Presidential candidate Mike Huckabee. Tickets are $20 each. The purpose of the rallies is to

raise awareness, involvement, and funding needed for the Stop Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act to qualify and win on

the November 2018 ballot.

Sun, Jan. 11, 2 p.m., Portland Metro / Sun, Jan. 21, 7 p.m., Peoples Church, Salem / Mon, Jan. 22, 7 p.m., Bethel Church,

Medford.

Columbia Knights in Action

Check out the December edition of Knights in Action under News at www.kofc.org and see our State Secretary Ron Boyce

gathering Stop The Funding signatures during the Rosary Bowl NW.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 15

Patrick and Teresita Parson Culture of Life Couple

Cultura de La Vída

Patrick y Teresita Parson, Pareja de Cultura de la Vida, de los Caballeros de Colon de Oregon

Alto a Los Fondos Para el Aborto en Oregon

Esperamos que todos los consejos sigan consiguiendo firmas para Parar Los Fondos Para el

Aborto en Oregon. Necesitamos miles de firmas más para llevar estas a las votaciones. Las personas que no están

seguras de que y firmaron, pueden averiguarlo llendo al sitio Oregon Unidos Para la Vida:

https://www.stopthefunding.org/

Oregon Pro-Vida, Memorial y Marcha 2018

Oregon Pro-Vida está llevando a cabo el Roe v.Wade Memorial y Marcha anual en domingo, el 14 de Enero, del 2018, a

las 2:30 p.m. en el Pioneer Courthouse Square en Portland. Uno de los conferencistas será el Arzobispo Alexander

Sample. Por favor consideren asistir individualmente o en Consejo para mostrar su apoyo. Más informes al:

https://www.ortl.org/roe-v-wade-memorial-2018/

Speak Life! ‘18

Speak Life’18 es una serie de rallies pro-vida patrocinado por Oregon Unidos Por La Vida. El principal conferencista para

el Rally, es el anterior Gobernador de Arkansas/Candidato Presidencial de U.S.A. Mike Huckabee. Los boletos cuestan 20

$ dólares cada uno. El propósito de los Rallies es formar conciencia, envolvimiento y los fondos que se junten son para

Parar el Acto de Fondos para el Aborto para que califique y gane en las votaciones de Noviembre 2018. Domingo de

Enero. 11, 2p.m. Portland Metro / Domingo, Enero. 21, 7 p.m. personas de la iglesia. Salem / Lunes, Enero 22, 7 p.m.

Iglesia Bethel, Medford.

Cultura de la Vida

Chequen la edición de Diciembre de los Caballeros de Colon en Acción, en las News en: www.kofC.org, y vean al

secretarios Ron Boyce consiguiendo firmas Stop The Funding durante el rosario del Rosario Bowl NW.

Council In Action Coat and Blanket Drive / Soup Supper

Council 9257 Milwaukie has been organizing a January coat and blanket drive and donating them to the Downtown Chapel for several years.

This January, the coat and blanket drive will be on Saturday, January 13th. Please set aside your unneeded coats and blankets, and bring them to the Christ the King Parish Center on Saturday January 12th, before or after the 5:30 p.m. Mass.

Stay and enjoy some free soup at our soup supper. Also, the parish bingo game will take place that evening, and you are all invited to stay.

Joe Keller, F.S.

Council 9527

jwkeller144@comcast.net

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 16

Patrick and Teresita Parson Pareja de Cultura de la Vida

Supporting Christians In The Middle East

Over the last several years the Christians in the Middle East have been fighting for survival and they still are. This is where Christ started his Church and is home to the descendants of the first Christians; they need help to survive. What has been done to support them? For the past several years only a couple of nations and a few organizations have helped. The Knights of Columbus has been instrumental in helping them survive and we are still working to help them. This is something we can all be proud of. There is still more work to do. We need to keep working diligently to help the seat of Christianity to survive. One of the tenants of our religion is to help those in need and we are doing this. We have been doing this for the Christians in the Middle East and still need to keep doing this but we also need to look around us locally to see who needs help and how we can help them. This is not only helping them with their physical needs but also with their spiritual needs. We need to step out and help our Clergy spread the word about Christ. Let’s start preparing for the future.

Sid Thiel

Immediate Past State Deputy Ph: 503-610-1595 Cell: 503-860-5968 Fax: 503-610-1595 kcbooster@comcast.net

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 17

FORWARD INTO THE BREACH

STAR COUNCIL – FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION

Message from the General Program Director

I would like to thank those who helped make some of our Programs a success this past month. First, a

thank you to State Youth Director, George Murphy, for organizing this year’s State Soccer Challenge.

Also thank you to DD’s, Duane Morris and David Judy and Council 14802 for helping the event run

smoothly.

Second, I would like to congratulate DD11, Ipo Ross and Council 2255 for a successful first time run of a

new program of “Burying the Unclaimed Dead” in Klamath Falls, OR. This was a long overdue program

that gives the unclaimed dead a respectable burial. Hopefully this program will spread across the state

and out into the nation.

Third, I would like to thank Paul and Debbie Hernandez, morning DJ’s of Hope 107.9 FM radio in Albany, OR for playing

the KofC Public Service Announcements on “Keeping Christ in Christmas” throughout the holidays.

Finally, please have all your Council programs tie in with “Building the Domestic Church” this Holiday Season. All of the

Domestic Church Programs and information can be found on Supreme’s website under the tab on top of the home page.

Happy Holiday and remember to Keep Christ in Christmas.

Tom Radel State Warden State General Program Director Habitat for Humanity Chairman

State Community Program Director: District Deputies: I sent out a mailing to seek your input about how we can find a need for 100 wheelchairs in the State of Oregon (which is a shipping carton full... the minimum required for an order). I asked you to please ask your Councils where the need might be for one, two, or even several wheelchairs. The response has been anemic.

Maybe there isn’t a need for wheelchairs in our State. However, I want to get your final word on this at the State Winter Meeting, so we can make a decision if we can run this program in Oregon... or if we need to start thinking of other countries that DO have a need! So please, ask your Councils this month and bring the total number to Eugene. Thank you, Vivat Jesus, Kent Purdy purdalator2@gmail.com Home: 503-881-1244

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 18

Tom Radel State Warden

1737 NW Laura Vista Dr. Albany, OR 97321 541-974-5716 twilldel@Comcast.net www.kofc-or.org

Kent Purdy Community Director

Youth Director Report

Worthy Brother Knights:

This will be the final Youth report for 2017. I would like to give thanks to all of our Brother Knights,

Councils, and Assemblies that participated this year. We have much to be thankful due to their

participation.

We held the State wide kick-off of Coats For Kids on Black Friday, 24 Nov 2017. We asked that our

Councils determine the needs of their communities, then see how much their Councils could afford to

donate. I know that Cathedral Council 1529, Hillsboro Council 1634, Holy Trinity/St. Pius X Council 12656, Salem Council

5060, Sherwood Council 9137, Tualatin Council 13851, Albany Council 1577, Coos Bay Council 1261, Molalla Council

3509, and Mt. Angel Council 1767 provided the most boxes with 10. In all we gave away more than 40 Boxes of Coats to

Kids in need. I will have a final count broken down by numbers within Councils next month. Our thanks to all the

Councils and DD's that participated. If I missed a Council please contact me so that I can add you into our final count next

month.

The State Soccer Kick Championship was held at Holy Trinity Council 14802 on November 19, 2017. It was very well

attended and the winners have been forwarded on to Supreme. Tom Radel our State Warden handed out trophies to

the winners. Photos will appear in next month’s issue if we obtain releases. DD's 17 and 18 Duane Morris and Dave Judy

helped. G.K. Leroy Knuckles, Past Faithful Navigator Chuck Stratton and Brother Knight William Angdl all helped.

The State is still accepting Essays for our Essays contest . Also Posters for Drug Abuse, Alcohol Awareness, and Keep

Christ in Christmas Posters programs. All of these are to be sent to State Youth Director. Address is below. The cut off

date for this year is December 23, 2017.

I have attended two Christmas celebrations. First Portland Council 678 - the meeting hall was PACKED. We met

Brother Knights from St. Therese Council 7828, St. Agatha Council 7388, The Madeleine Council 11682, and The Rose

Council 3735. The food and drink was all free and they packed the meeting hall. They are located across the street from

St. Charles Church. The next Christmas celebration was at Hillsboro Council 1634. Santa gave out gifts to 30 girls and

boys. It was well attended, DD17 Duane Morris and wife Junalyn were there. Past State Masters Andy Robinson and wife

Mary Ann, and Carroll Gorg and wife Roberta, (who was celebrating her birthday) were present. Both parties were great

holiday treats.

I wish A Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone.

Reminder: Councils should start preparing for their Hoop Shoot Programs in Jan 2018!

VIVAT JESUS

George E Murphy

State Youth Director

1969 SE Gail Ct.

Hillsboro, Or 97123

Email: murphy1969@frontier.com

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 19

George Murphy Youth Director

Council In Action Submitted by: Kent Purdy Community Director

Brother Knights I wanted to report that Mount Angel Council 1767 participated in the Coats for Kids Program as well as Food for Families on Black Friday, November 24th. We did this in conjunction with our St. Mary Parish and distributed 8 cases of coats to local kids. The seminarians at The Abbey Council also ran a separate GLOVE DRIVE up on the hilltop. They brought the gloves down, and we distributed them with our coats! We also collected and distributed over 1700 pounds of food for St. Joseph Shelter in Mt. Angel. So, in one day we were able to fulfill all four Youth Activities and Family Activities for the Colombian Award! And.... we had a lot of fun! Vivat Jesus Dick Bielenberg, Grand Knight

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 20

Council In Action Submitted by: Mike Campy, GK

Portland Council 678 is sponsoring the “Turkey Project” of the Radio Cab foundation. The foundation will feed hundreds of families in the Portland metropolitan outer areas this Christmas. It is a worthy cause. I myself personally have delivered many boxes. It is so heartwarming to see the warm, smiling, shining and very happy grateful faces of the families who will have a nice warm meal. This would warm up anyone’s heart. We have decided as a Council to only have listed any recognition on radio or television news as work being sponsored by Oregon Knights of Columbus. We do not wish to be individually recognized on the state level… just for the good works of Knights of Columbus. There are plenty of opportunities for other Knights of Columbus to volunteer time if they’d like. Just a few hours on a Friday or a Saturday in the next weeks before Christmas. If your Council wants to help, you can go to the helpful website located at:…http://radiocabfoundation.org/turkey-projects/.... I have been assured by a spokesman for the local media that the Knights of Columbus will be featured prominently… Thank you so much, Mike Campy, GK Council 678, Portland

Here is a quick overview from the website...

Turkey Project—The Radio Cab Turkey Project. What is it ?

In simple terms, the Radio Cab Turkey Project is a hunger relief program that serves families struggling with food insecurity. In broader terms, The Turkey Project is much more. It is a unique food program that provides families living in Greater Portland the essential ingredients – a Christmas turkey with all the fixings – for one of the most cherished family meals of the year.

The Turkey Project supports the Family Meal

During the holidays, the demand for hunger relief reaches its highest point in the year. Our program strives to fill this need in a special way – by providing a complete Christmas dinner that sets the table and brings the family together.

Another benefit of the Turkey Project is its personal touch. Hundreds of turkeys are delivered personally by the drivers of Radio Cab Company who volunteer their time to reach seniors, the infirm, and those without transportation.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 21

Corporal Work of Mercy—Interment of Cremains Potters Field Project For The Unclaimed Dead

Klamath Falls Oregon - Knights of Columbus District 11 and Council 2255

Through the tireless efforts of Ipo Ross, District Deputy 11, and work of the Klamath Falls Mt. McLoughlin Council 2255 as well as the local people of the parishes in Klamath Falls, the community was able to pay their respects and inter 150 unclaimed remains in a Potters Field at the Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Klamath Falls on November 18, 2017. By permission of Klamath Falls, Oregon Herald and News Editor Gerry O’Brien, we include a majority of their comments:

BY STEPHEN FLOYD H&N Staff Reporter. “About a year ago, Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery set out to provide a final resting place for unclaimed cremated remains in Klamath Falls. In Catholic tradition, caring for the living is as important as caring for the dead, as they see our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. Cemetery Manager Ipo Ross said he expected to find around 30 sets of ashes at local funeral homes, where unclaimed cremains are kept in storage. Ross said a funeral home is not required to keep ashes beyond 180 days, but he has learned many do so for a matter of decades. “We just felt as though it was a shame for these people to not have a place to go,” said Ross. Rather than a couple of dozen, Ross said he found about 150 remains between Davenport’s Chapel of the Good Shepherd and O’Hair & Ward’s Funeral Chapel. Some are of children, some unknown adults and some of well known people, but no family has laid claim to them. Plans were put in place to inter the ashes during a ceremony which was held on November 18th in a potter’s field at the cemetery. Several priests and officials were on hand for the services. A ministry of service In Catholic and other religious traditions, a potter’s field or pauper’s grave is a section of a cemetery set aside for burying unknown and indigent people. The name comes from the scriptural account of the death of Judas Iscariot, who was buried in a field purchased by the high priests that was later used to bury strangers and the poor.

Ben Quen, President of the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Association, said it took little convincing for his board to approve setting aside land to inter the unclaimed ashes. In a unanimous decision, the board set aside around 3,000 square feet of land behind the cemetery chapel specifically for burying unclaimed remains. “Burying the dead is a major thing for us,” he said. “We treat it as a ministry.”

For those less fortunate—Quen said there could be a number of reasons ashes go unclaimed. Sometimes the cost of cremation is more than a family can pay, while other times there can be disputes as to who is responsible for the deceased. “It could be costs, could be rifts in the family,” he said. In one example, Quen said a woman from out-of-state was traveling through Klamath County recently when she took ill and later died while hospitalized. No next of kin could be located and, after learning of the situation, the cemetery offered to bury the woman for free. Quen said, after leaning more about her life, they found the woman was Catholic and an accomplished traveler with a Sister in Europe. Quen said those among the unclaimed ashes do not have to be Catholic to be interred at the potter’s field. Whether from another faith or from no faith, Quen said that was a matter “for God to sort out.” Each urn was documented during the November 18th ceremony. Ross said they invited ministers of different faiths for the deceased who may not have been Catholic. He said military honors were included as at least 11 of the ashes belonged to veterans. The ceremony also featured reading each of the names of the deceased and prayers for their souls. The names of each person will also be inscribed on a headstone donated by Premier Memorial. The ashes will be interred in tubes, known as ossuaries, with 10 cremains in each ossuary. The first plot will hold up to 18 ossuaries, and if more cremains are located Quen said they can prepare another plot within the area dedicated by the board. “If we need to grow, we’ll open up another plot and get it prepared,” said Quen. Ross said there is the potential for additional local ashes from Eternal Hills Cemetery, whose records and remains are currently being administered by the state.

(Continued next page)

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 22

(Corporal Work of Mercy—Interment of Cremains Continued)

Eternal Hills was among funeral homes Ross intended to reach out to, but the former company has been struggling against administrative sanctions since March 2016. If any relatives of the deceased learn they are interred at the cemetery, Ross said they will be able to retrieve the cremains from the appropriate ossuary. He said this is one of their larger goals for the project, that people would learn of a loved one’s final resting place and retrieve their remains. Growing beyond the basin—And the scope of the burial may reach further than Klamath Falls as the idea is now being adopted by the Knights of Columbus. Ross is a District Deputy for the group and after turning to the organization for support of the project, they said this idea was something other Oregon Councils might be interested in. “They would like to take it across the state,” he said. Quen said it is not their goal to have Klamath Falls become a hub for unclaimed remains, rather for communities to partner with cemeteries and funeral homes to keep the ashes of loved ones local. Quen said he expects the potter’s field will become a fixture for those who visit the cemetery to pray for the souls of the dead.”

Thanks to the effort and work of Ipo Ross, District Deputy, District 11 Klamath Falls and Council 2255, the 150 unclaimed remains between Davenport’s Chapel of the Good Shepherd and O’Hair & Ward’s Funeral Chapel were interred during a non-denominational ceremony in a potter’s field at the Mt Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Klamath Falls Oregon. During the ceremony, several local priests, ministers of different faiths and officials were present. Full military honors were also included.

Those interred included veterans, children and unknown adults, who have no families to lay claim to them, both Catholic and not. Ipo Ross, who was instrumental in starting this work, would like to acknowledge several key Knights of Council 2255 who were a huge help by providing their sweat equity. Much of this could not have happened without their help, hard work and dedication to see this activity through to its completion. The following were those key players and the “Potters Field Committee & work party”.

Ken Waters

Doug Buttersworth

Justin Longacre

Jerry Sweetman

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 23

A large stained glass cross adorns the back of the chapel above the space where the dedication stone will be placed for the potters field, at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

Church Director Report

Journey to the Inn

An Advent Celebration Brothers, Are you searching for an activity that will increase the visibility of your Council within your parish, help to get young people involved, and reach across the cultural divide? We have that program, but you'll have to act quickly. A Domestic Church Program entitled Journey to the Inn may be able to help you succeed in all of that, and more. The Journey to the Inn shares an idea with a popular Latin American Christmas tradition called "Las Posadas" meaning "the inns". It's a simple reenactment ceremony of Christ's birth, which gives emphasis to Mary and Joseph's search for shelter prior to the Nativity. Popular for generations in Latin America and the southwestern U.S., you can easily help bring this program to your parish.

As with all of your Church activities, first talk with your pastor. He may also be able to tell you if some members of your parish community are already doing Posadas, in which case you can offer your Council's support. If no one is involved with Posadas in your parish, Supreme has a booklet entitled: “Journey to the Inn; an Advent Celebration” (#9898), which can be ordered or found online. This will give you guidelines for conducting this activity. My suggestion to you, after you have received this booklet, is to seek out members of your parish Hispanic community and see how this may have been done in the past, and enlist their help. This activity fits perfectly with the new emphasis from Supreme about Councils getting more active in parish activities. Act quickly; this activity can be a win/win for everyone involved. Contact me with any questions regarding this or any church program. Fraternally, Ray Prom Oregon KofC Church Director promray58@gmail.com

Council In Action Sweet Home Council 8624 Knights of Columbus giving out Keep Christ in Christmas lawn signs to the parish.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 24

Ray Prom Church Director

The Call to Basics! and

Building the Domestic Church through Council programs!

Editor’s Note: (While this report was given to members of Council 14802, it is open to anyone who wishes to assist in this project. Also, it is a reminder that we as Knights are always willing to provide assistance to widows of Knights and those in need). Brothers, If you recall, during your First Degree ceremonials, there is a section telling you of our Knights of Columbus founder Father Michael J. McGivney. It was he, who in 1882 gathered some men from his parish and put a plan into place to help out widows and orphans. Now is our time to step forward and keep that dream alive. We, as Council 14802 members, will be holding a yard clean up at Sara Coffey's home. Sara is the widow of Past Brother Tim Coffey, who lost his battle with cancer February 27, 2017 at the young age of 39. This presents us all with a great opportunity to show/teach your family the meaning of charity. Family and spouses are welcome to help. (Remember—hours of work performed for the Knights are hours that can be counted on the Annual Survey of Fraternal Activities, due to Supreme January 31, 2018) WHEN: Saturday December 16th 2017 WHERE: 4680 Owyee St. Portland, Oregon 97229 (This is just outside the Rock Creek neighborhood). Please contact me if you can attend. Brother Tom Stoffel will have his trailer to remove debris from the property. Many Blessings Brothers, David Judy DD18/GK 14802

Council In Action

Council 678, under the direction of GK Mike Campy, is starting a new era for this Council. He reports that on December 9th that their Council held a Christmas party which was a full dinner with drinks and open to Knights and their families.

Also, Council 678 is one of the sponsors (along with a few corporate sponsors) for the 21st annual “Turkey Project” that is put on by the Radio Cab foundation...full Christmas dinner boxes presented and delivered to families in the greater Portland metropolitan area...in past years the number of boxes has in been in the range of 800 but as high as 1300...It is a very worthy cause.

The turkey project will be featured on state wide television and radio. This is an excellent opportunity for exposure for the Knights of Columbus. There is also time for other Knights to help with dropping off or putting boxes together for a couple of hours on a few days in December… Any ideas on getting more Knight involvement would be appreciated.. I can provide you exact dates and times. Thank you, Mike Campy GK Council 678 503.422.3501 Onepdxone@gmail.com

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 25

Hispanic Outreach The Christmas Season is fast approaching and I find myself still trying to figure a better way to convey a stronger and more convincing message to all state Knights of Columbus Councils to “open the door” to our Hispanic brothers. Some Councils are participating and getting some great results. Others are still thinking about it? I know we can do better! If only I could convince those that are thinking about it to pray about it and try to overcome disagreements by using UNITY as a coordinator. During your regular Council meetings, when you get to the “Good of the Order” to offer prayer for those who are suffering from illness or some sort of health issue, try to include the betterment of your Catholic Character and Strong Determination to overcome the weakness of Faith. Remember that what matters for each human being is not where we begin but where we end! All of us have felt the tremendous effects of the natural disasters we have had this year: earthquakes, floods, fires, tornadoes and hurricanes. We see and hear of all that damage and sufferings and that does not include the horrific behavior that has been demonstrated by some individuals. With all that and God still loves us! So I am suggesting to change the method of recruitment! Reverse the trend, “Recruitment in Reverse”. Instead of trying to bring our Hispanic brothers to join our Councils, let us go to them and visit their church activities and learn what they do to strengthen their Faith and Spirituality? Let us join them so they can see what we are and what we do! Let us be messengers of Mercy. Let us join them on the journey to find the baby JESUS. Even Supreme is suggesting the addition of POSADAS* as an event to building the Domestic Family. During the preparation for Advent Season, most Hispanic congregations participate in telling the story of the journey of Joseph and Mary looking for a room at the Inn to await the coming of our Lord and Savior. JESUS. Look at your church bulletin. The month of December is packed with events for the Nativity. The POSADAS is an event celebrated by most Hispanics and consist of nine days of prayer, adoration and meditation in preparation for the coming of Baby Jesus. Supreme is offering a complete booklet with information and history. If your parish doesn’t have a POSADA in Spanish, look at your neighboring town. Most of the churches in the Portland diocese with the first name “Saint” have a Spanish mass. Come and join them and their processions. They celebrate the activity, their fiestas most always have hot chocolate and pastries, you’ll like it. Wear your Knight’s gear and introduce yourself as a member of the Knights of Columbus. The hand shake and a smile is done internationally without words, even in the Hispanic community. Share your friendship as a Knight as a gift for Christmas. Allow them to recruit themselves by wanting to do what you do. Try it. Jesse C. Villarreal Chairman, Hispanic Outreach jcv1936@canby.com

*Posadas are an important part of Mexican Christmas traditions. These community celebrations take place on each of the nine nights leading up to Christmas, from December 16 to 24th. The word posada means "inn" or "shelter" in Spanish and in this tradition, Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem and their search for a place to stay is re-enacted.

Posadas are held in neighborhoods across Mexico and are also becoming popular in the United States.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 26

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 27

Street Soccer Portland Submitted by: Vivi Bory, Office Manager Kennedy Agency

Street Soccer Portland has used the power of soccer to help Portland’s homeless, refugee and at-risk communities discover their strengths, take positive steps forward in their lives and connect to several community/social service organizations. In less than a year, we’ve been able to reach nearly 100 participants and our goal next year is to continue to bring soccer to more people of all ages and backgrounds by: 1. Launching a Women’s Initiative for homeless and low-income women and mothers 2. Doubling the size of our team of Homeless Young Adults 3. Replicating the success of our Youth Program in the David Douglas neighborhood throughout East Portland

Starting this Giving Tuesday (November 28th) and going through the New Year, we’re launching the ‘I Play For Portland’ campaign. How you can get involved: Our players are playing for bigger goals, whether that is for Family, Recovery, Courage, Hope, Compassion, etc.—and now we want to hear what you ‘Play For’. 1. Visit www.streetsoccerusa.org/playforpdx/ and make a contribution to one of Street Soccer PDX's three initiatives, then... 2. Follow the instructions on www.streetsoccerusa.org/playforpdx/ and post a picture on social media telling us what you 'Play For', and 3. Help us spread the word by tagging your friends, sharing with colleagues and sending to anyone that would interested in supporting!

Questions? Contact Adam Lewis: adam@streetsoccerusa.org

2017 Canby Christmas Tree Lighting Knights of Columbus (Council 3484)

Submitted by: Duane Kloser PGK Council 3484

The Canby Knights of Columbus prepared and served 35 gallons of hot chocolate at the 2017 Christmas Tree Lighting

Ceremony at Waite Park in Canby on Friday December 1st. More than 2,000 people attended the event and thanked the

Knights for their generosity.

Fifteen members of the Knights, including spouses, served the hot chocolate on a chilly December evening.

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 28

From Vice Supreme Master Chuck Delvin:

Worthy District Masters,

Congratulations to Sir Knight Jesse Villarreal who has officially joined our team as the new District Master of Oregon. After an extended wait, I received word today.

Chuck Davlin, VSM

From Oregon District Master Jesse Villarreal: Worthy Sir Knights, Faithful Navigators and Brothers All,

As you can see, the assignment has finally been completed and I have accepted the responsibility.

Also realize the present conditions due to the drastic change of "uniform" for our ceremonial events.

Let's just put the feathers away and concentrate on what our Fourth Degree represents. Patriotism!

Let's all work together and continue to be strong Catholics and proud Knights.

Vivat Jesus!

Jesse C. Villarreal, DM Home: 503-266-4043 jcv1936@canby.com

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 29

Supremes' Family of the Month for

September 2017

Oregon Councils participating in September were:

Council 1307 Astoria, Council 1577 Albany, Council 1623 McMinnville, Council 3484 Canby, Council 6266* Beaverton, Council 8129 Dallas and Council 9263 Salem.

This family received one of the 100 Holy Family gifts that are given out by the Supreme office in a random drawing each month. Any Council who uses the Family of the Month booklet (Form 1993), which is provided to each Council on the “Surge with Service” DVD, is automatically placed in the random drawing each month at Supreme.

Kenneth Taylor Council 6266

Charles Davlin

Jesse Villarreal

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 30

Please direct your prayer requests to: State Health/Welfare/Prayer Chairman

Andrew “Andy” Robinson Jr. Email: robinsoa@peak.org

Phone:503-543-2338

SICK AND DISTRESSED

Joyce Sample

Mother of Archbishop Sample

DD23 David V. McKee

Brian Harles

William Osborne Council 9529 Lincoln City

Imm. PSD Sid Thiel Council 9137 Sherwood

PSD George Flake Council 7223 Madras

DD01 David Saunders Council 3591 Tigard and Assembly 1292

PSD Mike Adams Council 2325 Oregon City

Bob Peron Council 9137 Sherwood

Ed Daniels

Jack Kolaso

John Plunkett

Gary Staats Council 11258 Central Point

IN MEMORIAM

Let us keep in mind and prayers all those Brother Knights and/or members of

Knights’ families who have gone before us.

Faith Gerstel Wife of SK Ian Gerstel

Council 6602 and Assembly 2277 Newberg

Donald Robert Fournier Council 3591 Tigard

Dear Jesus, Divine Physician and Healer of the sick, we turn to you in this time of illness. O dearest comforter of the troubled, alleviate our worry and sorrow with your gentle love, and grant us the grace and strength to accept this burden. Dear God, we place our worries in your hands. We place our sick under your care and humbly ask that you restore your servant to health again. Above all, grant us the grace to acknowledge your will and know that whatever you do, you do for the love of us. Amen.

During the month of December, when we think about Christmas, please remember our Veterans and those members of the Armed Services who risk their lives in the

service of our communities, states and throughout the world, as Firefighters, Police, Ambulance, Chaplains, Nurses, Doctors, Care Givers and those who minister to the

needs of others— please take time out to say:

“Thank You So Very Much”

For all that they do for all of us!

During Advent and Christmas, remember those in need and give your love unconditionally.

Please be a volunteer to help those in need and see to the needs of others.

BRINGING THE CHURCH HOME

Building the Domestic Church in Oregon, Through the eyes of Mary

December 2017 Through the rosary, and through the Joyful Mysteries , we meditate upon the life of the Holy Family through the eyes of Mary. The rosary is one of the simplest and most powerful prayers that the family can pray together. Both St. John Paul II and Pope Francis have often asked families to pray the rosary together. By coming together in this way for prayer and by turning together to Jesus with Mary, many families have experienced profound moments of peace, joy and reconciliation. Christ regularly prayed the psalms with his family and Mary knew the scriptures well (Luke 1:46-55). St. Joseph, as head of the household, would have led them in prayer.

Our Holy Family Icons continue their Oregon Journey

District 10 Holy Family Burns, OR St. Thomas Aquinas (Crane Mission) St. Charles (Juntura Mission) Our Lady of Loretto (Drewsey Mission)

District 7 St Mary’s Albany

District 21 St Cyril Wilsonville St Francis Sherwood Resurrection Parish in Tualatin Soon to visit St Peter in Newberg

Councils and Parishes who wish to host the Holy Family Icon, and promote more family prayer time, please contact your District Deputy or Mike Woody wood-ygap@comcast.net.

Wishing you and your family a joyful Advent and Christmas. Prayers and Blessings, Mike and Joanne Woody Oregon Membership Director Oregon Executive Secretary

Vol. 114 No. 6 December 2017 Page 31

The Oregon Knights of Columbus Columbian Newsletter© is published MONTHLY and can be found online at the Oregon Knights of Columbus website KOFC-OR.ORG.

Submissions are due to the Editor by the 10th of each month.

Editorial Staff: State Deputy Francis Mohr, francis_mohr@msn.com Editor and Publisher: Tom Karl, tkarl@charter.net