from the State Deputy

Transcription

1 from the Texas State Council Volume 7 Issue 12 Publication of the Texas State Council Knights of Columbus Dec 2012 STATE DEPUTY Jim Collins (Duchess) (cell) jcollinskc@comcast.net STATE CHAPLAIN Most Reverend Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller MSp.S San Antonio (office) STATE SECRETARY Terry Simonton (Estelle) (cell) simon@vvm.com STATE TREASURER Doug Oldmixon (Jo-Dee) (cell) doldmixon@austin.rr.com STATE ADVOCATE Diego Pena (Pia) (cell) djpena57@me.com STATE WARDEN Rudy Escamilla (Amy) (cell) rudy_242@hotmail.com IMMEDIATE PAST STATE DEPUTY Tony Herreth (Marty) (cell) therreth@att.net from the State Deputy Our Christmas Message Share the Gift of Love We Thank You and Value Your Friendship Brother Knights, Jim Collins STATE DEPUTY As we come to the closing of another year, it is our hope that in 2013, you will have the opportunity to share with your family a time to pray together, share the gift of love, and the time to plan on how we will continue to grow as a family. As we begin the New Year, reflect on all the people you met during 2012, places you have been, personal accomplishments and have we followed God s command to Love One Another? We wish you and your family prosperity in all endeavors. May each of you share good health, love of family, the gift of life, and we must all be grateful for the gift of freedom we share. In addition to your personal prayers, please remember our Pope, Bishops, priests, deacons, women religious, those serving in the military, the unborn the homeless and hungry. We thank you and value your friendship, especially the love you have given to us. May the miracle of Christmas fill your hearts with warmth and love, and we wish you all the best in the upcoming New Year. Jim & Duchess Collins FINISH LINE 1

2 SUPREME DIRECTOR Javier Martinez (Marietta) (cell) ASSOCIATE STATE CHAPLAIN Most Reverend Bishop George Sheltz (office) ASSISTANT TO STATE CHAPLAIN Deacon Mitch Chavez EXECUTIVE SECRETARY Mike McLaughlin (Dawn) (office) STATE ADMIN ACCOUNTANT Kari Jordan (office) STATE ADMIN COUNCIL RECORDS Kathleen McLoughlin (office STATE COUNCIL OFFICE 6633 Highway 290 East Suite 204 Austin, TX (office) (fax) Texas Knights of Columbus Ladies Program Benefitting Wounded Warrior Project Duches Collins, First Lady Thank you for saying yes for your support of the KC ladies program, benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project. I would like to take this opportunity to say Thank You for the generous donations that we have received since the Organizational Meeting in Houston. A full report of all contributions will be given at the Mid-Year Meeting in Austin. Several councils and assemblies have contacted me to let me know they are planning an extra fund raiser to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. One sporting event notified me that they will be donating a portion of their fundraiser to the WWP and there are many more upcoming events to help our program. The Ladies program will have a table set up at the Mid-Year Meeting to accept additional donations. WWP bracelets and WWP lapel pins will be available for a minimum donation of $5. We will also be having a live action to help with our program. We have received many phone calls letting us know how grateful and excited they are that we are working with the WWP in order to help give back to the servicemen and women who have fought so bravely to protect our wonderful country. All monies collected will go to the WWP National office which provides direct programs and services to meet the needs of injured service members. Individual contributions may also be sent and made payable to the Texas State Council, and in the memo part of the check, write Ladies Program or WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT. The address for the Texas State Council is 6633 Highway 290 East, Suite 204, Austin, TX Texas State Council Knights of Columbus Contact Duchess Collins at: DuchessCDA@comcast.net FINISH LINE Editor Bobb Mahrer (cell) r-mahrer@geusnet.com Copyright 2012, Knights of Columbus, Texas State Council, Austin, Texas The Finish Line is published monthly by the State Deputy and electronically posted on the tkofc website by the Editor. This publication is a running outlook of the activities, events, award criteria, and due dates for the next days. Specific questions about Membership, Charities, Programs, Council Development, Communications, and the specific subjects therein should be directed to the appropriate State Director. [Bobb Mahrer, Editor] FINISH LINE 2

3 STATE MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR Terry Fruge (Beth) (cell) MEMBERSHIP The Benefits of MEMBERSHIP Terry Fruge, State Membership Director Terry Fruge STATE RECRUITMENT My Brother Knights, CHAIRMAN As we strive to build the membership in this great State, the numbers Jack Gunn (Lori) given to us by Supreme are a measurement of how we are doing compared to (cell) our goal. For instance, the membership Goal for Texas for the first quarter lfgjag@swbell.net was 1108 new brother Knights. Our actual total was 885. Three dioceses exceeded their first quarterly goal Beaumont, Dallas, and San Antonio. STATE The numbers also show as we advance further into the fraternal year, ALL COUNCILS ACTIVE momentum is starting to build, and I have no doubt we will meet our goal of CHAIRMAN 5400 new members and attain a net number of 100,000 brother Knights in Tom Watters Sr. (June) Texas. While numbers are important, there are many other things to consider (cell) as we bring new Catholic gentlemen into our councils. We want to be able to twattersassoc@netzero.com share the main benefits and opportunities that Knights of Columbus members STATE and their families enjoy. They are as follows: MEMBERSHIP 365 COLUMBIAN MAGAZINE Free subscription to the Order s monthly magazine examining issues of concern to Knights, Catholics, and families. CHAIRMAN Carlos Martinez (Rosamar) KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS ROSARY (blessed by the Supreme Chaplain) (cell) presented to the candidate during the First Degree Exemplification. carlosmartinez1223@gmail.com DAILY MASS OF REMEMBRANCE AT ST. MARY S CHURCH Mass for deceased members and their wives, and deceased members of the Squires STATE program at the birthplace of the Order (New Haven, CT.) COLLEGE COUNCILS INSURANCE Portfolio of top-quality life insurance, long term care, and CHAIRMAN annuity products exclusively for members and their families. Tony Gutierrez FAMILY FRATERNAL BENEFIT For eligible families: (a) pays $1,500 for (cell) the child who dies before the age of 61 days; (b) pays $750 for the cild who is college.tkofc@gmail.com stillborn at least 20 weeks after conception; (c) offers guaranteed-issue insurance up to $5,000 to any child under the age of 18. STATE CEREMONIALS ORPHAN BENEFIT provides $80 monthly allotment for orphans of CHAIRMAN eligible families, and up to $7,000 in college scholarships available. Clarence Fey (Helen) MEMBER/SPOUSE FRATERNAL BENEFIT provides accidental death coverage for each member and spouse at no cost. cfey@swbell.net NEW MEMBER ANNUITY offers an annuity to new members and their spouses. STATE RETENTION WIDOW BENEFITS (a) continues to be covered under the CHAIRMAN Member/Spouse Fraternal Benefit; (b) may purchase insurance or annuities Ed Glisky (Karen) up to one year after insured member s death; () receives a free lifetime (cell) subscription to Columbia; (d) eligible with her children for scholarships, edglik@satx.rr.com student loans, etc. SCHOLARSHIPS provides eight different scholarship programs for higher education available to members, their spouses, and children. continued on page 13, see State Membership Director FINISH LINE 3

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5 STATE PROGRAMS DIRECTOR Chris Johnson (Jean Ann) (cell) ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES Daryl Entrop (cell) FREE-THROW Carl Bernal (Teresa) (cell) FAMILY/YOUTH David Zeigler Sr. (Laura) (cell) PRO-LIFE ACTIVITIES Tom Clark (Lisa) (cell) VOCATIONS CHAIRMAN Ed Tydings (Carmen) (cell) COLUMBIAN SQUIRES CHAIRMAN Larry Prather (Darla) (cell) WHEELCHAIR Sam Szalwinski (Beverly) (cell) Assistant Wheelchair Rich Moken (Irene) SILVER ROSE and OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE Olie Dangerfield (Evelyn) PROGRAMS This Month s Featured Program Special Olympics Chris Johnson, State Programs Director My Brother Knights, The Supreme Featured Program initiative highlighted this month is Special Olympics. COUNCIL ACTIVITY Council activities can bring focus and fulfillment to the membership. Working together with their families and other parishioners, councils can attain a sense of satisfaction as members of the Order while enjoying their accomplishments with family and friends. SPECIAL OLYMPICS In the last three years, Knights of Columbus councils have contributed $7.7 million to Special Olympics, and 160,000 members have volunteered 670,000 hours in support of the program. The good feeling that comes from volunteering for Special Olympics at any level of competition will surely help to convince a prospect to join our ranks. GETTING INVOLVED WITH SPECIAL OLYMPICS As part of our ongoing goal to provide financial, spiritual, and emotional support to those less fortunate, the Knights of Columbus has been a strong supporter of Special Olympics since its inception. Our goal is to help the games not only become stronger, but to spread to new countries and communities so that more people can benefit from their positive, uplifting example. The Knights of Columbus believes that Special Olympics is unparalleled in its ability to show the intrinsic worth and dignity of every human being. These games don't just build strength and character among the athletes and participants; it only takes a few moments with the competitors to be inspired by the force of their determination, and the true sense of God's love. Councils can assist Special Olympics at the local or state level Special Olympics is a year-round program. Knights and parishioners can provide volunteer support for both Summer and Winter games, and in training the athletes in preparation for competitions. Volunteers can staff information centers, food courts and other support functions. Perhaps the greatest satisfaction, however, comes from direct interaction with the athletes, helping with competitions or awards presentations. The camaraderie that volunteering with Special Olympics provides will help convince prospective members to join the Knights of Columbus. continued on page 13, see State Programs Director FINISH LINE 5

6 FROM THE ADVOCATE Steps to Accomplish Pass-Through Fund Raising for a Qualified 501 (c)(3) Charity Diego Pena, State Advocate Sometimes a donor to the Knights of Columbus sponsored activity asks for a receipt to potentially claim the donation on their tax return. What do we do if a donor wants a receipt to claim an income tax deduction? First, you must communicate that donations to the Knights of Columbus are NOT tax deductible because the Knights are NOT a qualified 501(c)(3) charity. The Order is not-for-profit organization under 501(c)(8) that surly does enormous charitable works, but donations directly to the Order are not qualified for income tax deductions by individuals or businesses. Neither are contributions to Home Associations, whether set up as a 501(c)(2) Property Holding Entity, or as a 501(c)(7) social club. So then the question that arises is, can the Knights of Columbus make certain donations tax-deductible to the donor, especially in the case when the funds will eventually end up with a qualified 501 (c)(3) charitable entity. [Note that Texas State Charities, Inc>, the entity managed by your Texas State council to raise funds primarily for the Bishops charities is a qualified 501(c)(3) charity, so all donations that go directly to that charity are deductible to the donor, whether an individual or business.] Every Knights of Columbus council or Assembly can collect funds for qualified 501(c)(3) charity, but in order for such pass-through donations to be tax deductible, the following steps must be followed very carefully: 1. The donation must come from an individual, not a business entity. 2. If the checks are made out to the Knights of Columbus, they must be deposited into a separate account that contains ONLY money to be donated to the qualified 501(c)(3). None of the funds going to the charity can be commingled with any council funds. 3. All proceeds in the account must be transferred to the charity, along with a list of the individual donors. 4. The receipt for the donation should come from the charity directly to the donor. If the council provides a receipt directly to any donor for any reason (such as to preserve his requested anonymity), then the council should get a receipt from the charity that shows the donation made by the council and then on the corresponding receipt provided to the donor. The following should be stated on the receipt: No goods or services were provided in exchange for this donation. 100% of the donated funds were transferred to (state official name and tax number here), a qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity. The council must keep careful records in case the IRS asks the donor to validate the donation. Obviously, this is much easier if the receipt comes directly from the 501(c)(3) charity. If an funds are deposited in an account that contains any council money, these funds should be refunded to each donor who wishes to claim an income tax deduction for his or her donation and the process described above should be followed. The IRS is very serious about these steps. No variation are allowed. Each year these rules are reviewed and updated in the tax memo published by the Supreme Advocate and distributed to each Financial Secretary. These are also available on the Order s website in the Officers Desk References. ONE NATION UNDER GOD FINISH LINE 6

7 Silver Rose #3 Travels Through Tyler Diocese Marshall, Texas: Front center (from left) is Father Denzil Vithanage, administrator for St. Joseph Catholic Church and School at Marshall, Tyler s Bishop-designate Monsignor Joseph Strickland of Tyler, and Third Texas District Marshall Bill Elliott (Dallas-FortWorth-Tyler Dioceses) of Marshall. Father Denzil is holding the Silver Rose #3 that is designated for District 3 of the Guadalupe Province (Texas and Oklahoma) and Bishop-designate Strickland is holding the Silver Rose from the Supreme Council. The Silver Roses were making their way from Arkansas through Texarkana, Tyler, and on to Dallas. The Silver Roses are planned to make their way to Laredo by December 8th at which time they will be turned over to the our brother Knights of Columbus of Mexico so that they may continue their journey to the Basilica of Our Lady Of Guadalupe located at Monterrey, Mexico for the celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12th. (See related story on next page) Silver Rose Schedule for Texas Silver Rose Route 1 Diocese Receive Transfer Arkansas 11/04/2012 Tyler 11/04/ /11/2012 Dallas 11/11/ /23/2012 Austin 11/23/ /30/2012 Texas Mid-term Meeting 11/30/ /02/2012 Laredo 12/02/ /08/2012 Mexico Northeast 12/8/ /12/2012 Silver Rose Route 2 Diocese Receive Transfer Oklahoma 11/04/2012 Ft. Worth 11/04/ /10/2012 San Angelo 11/10/ /17/2012 Lubbock 11/17/ /24/2012 Amarillo 11/24/ /30/2012 Texas Mid-term Meeting 11/30/ /02/2012 Laredo 12/02/ /08/2012 Return to Supreme 12/09/2012 Silver Rose Route 3 Diocese Receive Transfer New Mexico 11/04/2012 El Paso 11/04/ /11/2012 San Antonio 11/11/ /23/2012 Victoria 11/23/ /30/2012 Texas Mid-term Meeting 11/30/ /02/2012 Laredo 12/02/ /08/2012 Return to Supreme 12/9/2012 The Fourth Degree of Knights of Columbus are typically in charge of transferring the Silver Roses. Silver Rose Route 4 Diocese Receive Transfer Louisiana 11/04/2012 Beaumont 11/04/ /10/2012 Galvaston/Houston 11/10/ /17/2012 Corpus Christi 11/17/ /24/2012 Brownsville 11/24/ /30/2012 Texas Mid-term Meeting 11/30/ /02/2012 Laredo 12/02/ /08/2012 Return to Supreme 12/9/2012 FINISH LINE 7

8 The Story of the Running of the Silver Rose Our Lady of Guadalupe has done so much for her people and country that an assembly of young men called the Columbian Squires associated with the Knights of Columbus wanted to give something back to her. The group headed by Brother Miguel Martinez Estrada, Grand Knight Andreas Saucedo and Fray Margil De Jesus of Knights of Columbus Council 2312 in Monterrey, Mexico came up with the idea of running of a rose to Our Lady of Guadalupe in Monterrey. The small group was so enthused that they wanted to invite other squires to participate from two other countries on the North American Continent. They called Squires from Laredo, Texas to London, Ontario, Canada. London squires asked to start the relay running of the Rose from there through the United States and finishing up in Mexico City. The first Rose was blessed by Bishop John C. Cody in London. It was then flown to New York where it was received by Grand Knight Joseph Thomasen, who in turn took it to Supreme Knight Luke E. Hart. Mr. Hart then took the Rose to Dallas, Texas and delivered it to district officers of the state of Texas. Brother Knight Jack Collerin received the Rose and sent it to Laredo, Texas where the Rose was received by Squires from Monterrey, Mexico at the International Bridge in Laredo. The Squires then ran the Rose from the International Bridge to Monterrey. The Rose was run by several Squires through Sabinas Hidalgo N.L. Mexico to Cienega de Flores and on to the Basilica in Monterrey, Mexico on December 12, The First Rose was a natural rose, and after a year had decomposed. The squires to make yet another relay run in 1961, but due to the condition of the Rose it was not able to be used again. After contacting Grand Knight Arthur Mount at Council 1134, Reverend Edward Gatfield and Bishop John C. Cody decided to make a bronze rose and sent it to Our Lady in Monterrey, Mexico. When Fray Antonio de Jesus Sacedon and the squires of Circle 660 in Monterrey heard of the bronze rose, they decided to call upon Brother Miguel Martinez Montoya (owner of Joyeria Rosine) in Monterrey to make them a similar rose. The idea was to make a silver rose as this is one of Mexico s precious metals. The jeweler saw a beautiful bed of roses in a garden owned by Mrs. Shirla Ostwowk. He asked if he could have a rose as a model for the making of the Silver Rose. She first refused, stating that she worked very hard to make her garden beautiful and her roses perfect. However, after talking to Mr. Montoya, she saw something in his eyes and how he spoke about the roses. She asked him to explain about his interest in the rose in more detail. Mr. Montoya explained what had happened to the original rose in 1960 and what Canada was doing for Our Lady in Monterrey. Once she heard about the making of the Silver Rose she gladly gave him the rose and the stem to which it was attached. Mr. Montoya, knowing that the rose would eventually wilt, took a series of photographs and made some sketches. Subsequently Mr. Montoya made all of the Silver Roses from 1961 to The rose bush from which the rose was removed was called Rose of Peace. The first Silver Rose was blessed by Bishop Alfonso Espino Silva. This rose was then sent on to New Haven, Connecticut, to the Supreme Council Office. The Bronze Rose was blessed by Bishop Cody. It was received by Supreme Knight Luke E. Hart. Archbishop Francis J. Spellman of New York so admired both roses he kept them for a special mass. Both roses were then flown to Dallas, Texas. Texas State Deputy Jack Collerin, State Secretary Ed Gunter and Grand Knight Scott Grant of Fort Worth sent the roses on to Council 2034 in Laredo who then turned them over to brother Knights from Mexico in the middle of the International Bridge between Texas and Mexico. Brothers Louis G. Alanis and Enrique Garcia received the both the Silver Rose and the Bronze Rose. Again the roses were taken to Sabinas Hidalgo and Cienega de Flores and on to Monterrey. Each of the roses are kept at the Basilica in Monterrey, one for each year the Silver Rose has been run from Laredo to Monterrey. This tradition symbolizes unity and especially the international brotherhood that has been jointly nurtured by two cities from two countries. In 1997 during a Fourth Degree Exemplification in Kingsville, Texas, a Silver Rose (which was made a year before, especially for the council and assembly of Laredo) was present at the exemplification. A representative from Monterrey along with the keeper of the rose from Laredo (Sir Knight Alfredo McCabe) was also present during this exemplification. FINISH LINE 8

9 Texas Sends Relief to Hurricane Sandy Victims Hoboken, New Jersey: National Guardsmen assist displaced residents. New York City: Governor Mario Como orders the deployment of the New York National Guard. New Jersey Coast: Ariel view of the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy to the New Jersey coast. New York City: Crew begin the clean-up process in the city. Middleton, New Jersey: Members of Middleton Council 6552 assist local hurricane victims. Staten Island, New York: Supreme Knight Carl Anderson and Supreme Warden George Hanna help unload a truck of supplies for hurricane victims. FINISH LINE 9

10 Advent Season December 2, 2012 Marks Beginning of Christian Year The Advent season marks the beginning of the Christian year across many western churches in the United States. Its length varies from 22 to 28 days, starting on the Sunday nearest St Andrew s Day and encompassing the next three Sundays, ending on Christmas Day. It is uncertain as to when exactly the celebration of Advent was first introduced in the Christian church. Some sources say that Advent began on November 11 (St Martin's Day) at some time in the fifth century in the form of a six-week fast leading to Christmas. Advent was reduced to its current length at some stage in the sixth century and the fasting was later no longer observed. Currently, Advent begins on the fourth Sunday prior to Christmas Day, or the Sunday which falls closest to November 30, and lasts through Christmas Eve, or December 24. When Christmas Eve falls on a Sunday, it is the last, or fourth Sunday of Advent. Advent is originally a time to reflect and prepare for Christmas similarly to how Lent is in preparation Advent is a time to reflect and prepare for Easter. Advent has sometimes been referred to as the Winter Lent. Advent is originally a time to reflect and prepare for Christmas similarly to how Lent is in preparation for Easter. Advent has sometimes been referred to as the Winter Lent. Advent traditions spread from Europe to the United States, especially the Advent calendar, which became very popular in the United States after World War II as American military personnel and their families who were stationed in Germany brought them home and made them a part of the pre- Christmas traditions. Some people credit President Dwight Eisenhower with helping the tradition of the Advent calendar spread in the United States during the 1950s. Purple is historically the main color used for Advent because it reflects penitence, fasting, and the color of royalty to welcome the Advent of the King (Jesus Christ). The focus of the entire season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his first Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his second Advent. Some churches use other colors in recent times. For example, some churches mark the third Sunday of Advent with pink or rose, colors that represent joy. Many Protestant churches use blue to distinguish the Season of Advent from Lent. Advent wreaths are symbolic of Advent. They are usually made of fir and decorated with gold and silver ribbons or scarlet woolen threads. Small wreaths may be displayed on the table where family and friends sit while singing carols and preparing handmade gifts. Advent is primarily observed in Christian churches that follow an ecclesiastical calendar of liturgical seasons to determine feasts, memorials, fasts, and holy days. Christian denominations that celebrate Advent include Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Methodist, and Presbyterian. Contact Tom Clark at tomc@hikeforlifetexas.org if you would like to start a Hike for Life in your area The Knights of Columbus are Pro-Life FINISH LINE 10

11 Pearl Harbor Day December 7, 2012 On Sunday morning, December 7, 1941, the American Army and Navy base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii was attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy. Intending to neutralize the American forces in the Pacific in an impending World War II, the attack came as a surprise and lead to great losses of life and equipment. More than 2,400 American servicemen and women and citizens were killed, and more than 1,000 were injured. The Americans also lost a large proportion of their battle ships. The attack destroyed 8 American battleships, severely damaged 9 other warships, and destroyed 188 aircraft. Losses for the Japanese Navy included 60 servicemen, 5 midget submarines, and 29 aircraft. The Japanese military had hoped that the attack on Pearl Harbor would prevent the United States of America from increasing her influence in the Pacific. However, the events in Pearl Harbor actually led to the escalation of World War II. The day after the attack, the United States declared war on Japan and so entered World War II. President Franklin Roosevelt in a speech to Congress stated that the bombing of Pearl Harbor was a date which will live in infamy. Shortly afterwards, Germany also declared war on the United States. In the months that followed the attack, the slogan Remember Pearl Harbor swept the United States and radio stations repeatedly played a song of the same name. In 1991, which marked the 50th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States Congress National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, which is established the Pearl Harbor Commemorative Medal. annually on December 7, commemorates the attack This is also known as the Pearl Harbor Survivor's on Pearl Harbor, in Hawaii, during World War II. Medal and can be awarded to any veteran of the Many American service men and women lost their United States military who were present in or around lives or were injured on December 7, National Pearl Harbor during the attack by the Japanese Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is also referred to military. The medal can be awarded to civilians, who as Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day or Pearl Harbor were killed or injured in the attack. Day. FINISH LINE 11

12 Our Lady of Guadalupe When we reflect on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, December 12th, we learn two important lessons, one of faith and one of understanding. Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Patron of the Americas December 12 Missionaries who first came to Mexico with the conquistadors had little success in the beginning. After nearly a generation, only a few hundred Native Mexicans had converted to the Christian faith. Whether they simply did not understand what the missionaries had to offer or whether they resented these people who made them slaves, Christianity was not popular among the native people. Then in 1531 miracles began to happen. Jesus' own mother appeared to humble Juan Diego. The signs -- of the roses, of the uncle miraculously cured of a deadly illness, and especially of her beautiful image on Juan's mantle -- convinced the people there was something to be considered in Christianity. Within a short time, six million Native Mexicans had themselves baptized as Christians. The first lesson is that God has chosen Mary to lead us to Jesus. No matter what critics may say of the devotion of Mexicans (and Mexican descendants) to Our Lady of Guadalupe, they owe their Christianity to her influence. If it were not for her, they would not know her son, and so they are eternally grateful. The second lesson we take from Mary herself. Mary appeared to Juan Diego not as a European Madonna but as a beautiful Aztec princess speaking to him in his own Aztec language. If we want to help someone appreciate the gospel we bring, we must appreciate the culture and the mentality in which they live their lives. By understanding them, we can help them to understand and know Christ. Our Lady of Guadalupe is patron of the Americas. ( like us on OUR NUMBERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE Year 2011 sets new records for Charitable giving VOLUNTER SERVICE More than $1.4 billion in charitable contributions and over 653 million volunteer hours have been provided in the last 10 Years CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS 70.1 MILLION HOURS $158 MILLION DOLLARS FINISH LINE 12

13 State Membership Director continued MATTHEWS AND SWIFT EDUCATIONAL TRUST FUND provides tuition-only scholarships to Catholic colleges up to $25,000 per year for children of members in good standing who, while serving in the military forces of their country in a combat zone, specifically designated as such by the Board of Directors, are killed by hostile action or wounded by hostile action resulting within two year thereof in permanent and total disability, and for children of members in good standing are full-time law enforcement officers or full-time firefighters who, while in the lawful performance of their duties, are killed in the line of duty as a result of criminal violence directed at them. Applications must be filed within two years of the member s death or (for servicemen) disability. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT opportunity to build personal leadership skills. FOURTH DEGREE eligible to join the Patriotic Degree. HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP at the age of 70 with 25 years of service. MEMBERSHIP CARD entities participation in all Catholic, fraternal, and social activities in more than 14,000 councils throughout the world. ACTIVITIES (FAMILY / YOUTH / SOCIAL, ATHLETIC participation in a variety of programs and activities conducted by local councils. As you can see, there are a host of benefits that many Brother Knights may not be aware of, that we need to share with prospects who thing they know what we are all about. We Are Called. State Programs Director continued Columbian Squires Mid-Year Convention Mission, Texas January 18-20, 2013 Larry Prather State Columbian Squires Chairman Squires Circle 1492, in conjunction with the Kights of Columbus Council 2698 is proud to host the 2013 Texas State Columbian Squires Mid-Year Convention in Mission, Texas. The convention will be hosted on January 18-20, 2013 at: St. Paul Catholic Church and Hall 1119 Francisco Street Mission, TX Everyone is responsible for their own hotel reservations. A block of 30 rooms has been arranged at the Holiday Inn Express, 901 S. Shary Road, Mission, TX When making reservations, please refer to St. Paul s Columbian Squires Circle to get the group rate of $79.99 (plus tax) for a room with two double beds. Remember to bring your circle s or council s tax exemption certificate in order to avoid the tax. Room availability and price will not be guaranteed after January 1, To request for registration materials, contact Roy Castillo, Chief Counselor at or at castillo518@yahoo.com or Larry Prather, State Squires Chairman at (home) or (cell) or at ldprather@embarqmail. com There is a $35 registration fee for each Squire. Council and Assembly support is requested through the placement of an ad in the convention program book. Host a Thank You or Open House reception for all volunteers who gave of their time and talent. Let all especially non-members know how much their efforts are appreciated. Let prospects know that they are welcome and needed in your council then ask them to join. Perhaps even have the council s First Degree PROGRAM BOOK AD team ready to initiate them on the spot. Council members must contribute a minimum of Full Page $ man hours in support of state/local Special Half Page $50 Olympics and must raise $2,000 for Special Olympics (submit form 4584) to get full credit in Quarter Page $25 all Columbian Award requirements in the Council Activities category. Business Card $15 EVERY PROGRAM REPRESENTS A MEMBERSHIP RECRUITMENT OPPORTUNITY DEADLINE: January 4, 2013 FINISH LINE 13

14 q December 1, Order Membership Cards Financial Secretaries and Comptrollers are reminded that it is time to order Membership Cards for Year 2013 from the Supreme Council Supplies Department. q December 1-2, 2012 Mid-Year Meeting The Mid-Year meeting for all District and Diocesan Deputies will be held the weekend of December 1-2 at the Austin Sheraton Hotel (downtown). q December 2, Advent Begins December 2nd is the First Sunday of Advent, signifying the beginning of Advent. All Catholics are encouraged to set an Advent Wreath in their homes. Councils, assemblies, and circles are encouraged to have a ceremony with the blessing of an Advent Wreath by their chaplain and the lighting of its candles. q December 4, Light Up for Christ The Supreme Council has designated the first Tuesday of December of each year as the day for Light Up For Christ. On this day, councils and assemblies and circles are invited to turn on a switch and light a Nativity scene, and/or Christmas Tree at 8:00 pm local time. A Lights Up for Christ poster (#2757) is available from the Supreme Council Supply Department. q December 7, Pearl Harbor Day Plan a patriotic community activity that may be reported in the Community Activities section of the Columbian Award application. q December 12, Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Plan a pro-life activity in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Unborn, and report it in the Pro-Life Activities section of the Columbian Award application. q December 15, Family of the Month (Form 1993A) Due The Grand Knight of each council should appoint a Family Activities Chairman and Select a Family of the Month each month. Form 1993A is due to the Supreme Council office by the 15th of the month for the immediate past month. Two families are selected from each jurisdiction each month to represent the Supreme Council and those families Receive a small statue of the Holy Family in recognition of their selection. Participation in the Family-of-the-Month will count for one of the requirements of the Youth Activities section of the Columbian Award. A council that participates at least eight times in a timely manner during the fraternal year will be recognized with a special certificate from the State Council. The Family of the Month for November is due NOW. FINISH LINE 14

15 DECEMBER 2012 REMINDERS continued q December 25, Keep Christ in Christmas Plan a church, community, family, or youth activity that may be reported in the appropriate section of Columbian Award application. q December 31, State Council Charity Goal is Due (Early Date Grand Knights needs to make sure their council s Charity Goal to the Texas State Charities is paid by December 31st (early deadline) in order to qualify for the prestigious Lone Star Award with Distinction from the Texas State Council. q December 31, State Council Per Capita is Due (Early Date) Grand Knights need to make sure their council s State Per Capita assessment is paid by December 31st (early deadline) in order to qualify for the prestigious Lone Star Award for Excellence and the Lone Star Award for Excellence with Distinction. PER CAPITA JANUARY 2013 REMINDERS q January 1-31, 2013 Council Free-Throw Contests Councils are encouraged to participate in the Supreme Council sponsored Youth Basketball Free-Throw Contest and to schedule their local council contests during the month of January. The contest is for boys and girls ages as of January 1st. Councils should verify ages via a copy of a birth certificate at the time of acceptance of the parent consent form. Councils must also be current with their State Per Capita in order for contestants representing their council to be eligible at the district, diocesan, and state level contests. The State contest will be held at Antonian High School in San Antonio on March 2, Contact Texas State Council Free-Throw Chairman Carl Bernal in San Antonio at or at chbern34@juno.com for more information. q January 1-31, 2013 Diocesan Conferences Winter 2013 The schedule of diocesan conferences during January and February will be announced in the January 2013 issue of the FINISH LINE. q January 13-19, 2013 National Vocations Awareness Week National Vocations Awareness Week is an opportunity to promote awareness of the need for more priests. The Catholic Church invites us to reflect on Jesus mission as our own calling and to pray for all vocations. Ten Things You Can Do. FINISH LINE 15

16 JANUARY 2013 REMINDERS continued To Support Vocations may be found at Parish.htm. (note that ideas for Church Activities may be found in the Surge With Service booklet and note how they may be reported in the Church Activities section of the Columbian Award application.) q January 15, Family of the Month (Form 1993A) Due The Grand Knight of each council should appoint a Family Activities Chairman and select a Family of the Month each month. Form 1993A is due to the Supreme Council office by the 15th of the month for the immediate past month. Two families are selected from each jurisdiction each month to represent the Supreme Council and those families receive a small statue of the Holy Family in recognition of their selection. Participation in the Family-of-the-Month will count for one of the requirements of the Youth Activities section of the Columbian Award. A council that participates at least eight times in a timely manner during the fraternal year will be recognized with a special certificate from the State Council. The Family of the Month for December is due NOW. q January 25, th Annual March for Life Contact Texas State Council Pro-Life Chairman Tom Clark in the Dallas area at or at tjclark123@comcast.net for more information about Pro-Life Activities, particularly, the ACE Wings program. q January 31, Annual Survey of Fraternal Activity Report (Form #1728) Councils (and Assemblies and Circles) must complete and submit their 2012 Annual Survey of Fraternal Activity Report (Form #1728) to the Supreme Council by January 31st in order to qualify for the Columbian Award and the Star Council Award. q January 31, Partnership Profile Report with Special Olympics (Form #4584) The Knights of Columbus have always had a close relationship with Special Olympics. To further track local councils involvement, make sure that the councils in your district complete the Partnership Profile report with Special Olympics located in the Council Reports Form Booklet and submit it to the Supreme Council office by January 31st with a copy to the State Council office. The Supreme Council of Knights of Columbus provides funds to support the State Special Olympics activities based on the number of volunteer hours provided by Knights. Councils which report the greatest number of volunteer hours per member and greatest monetary donation per member will be recognized with a special award by the State Council. Form 4584 must be submitted to the Supreme Council office and the State Council office by January 31st. q January 31, Adopt All Seminarians State Deputy Jim Collins has asked that all the dioceses and archdioceses in Texas make certain that all seminarians in Texas have been adopted by a council by January 31st. In addition, councils are encouraged to provide their adopted seminarian with moral support, birthday greetings, funds for personal items, invitations to council functions, and recruit him to join the Knights of Columbus. FINISH LINE 16

17 FEBRUARY 2013 REMINDERS q February 1-28, 2013 District and Diocesan Free-Throw Contests District Deputies and Diocesan Deputies are encouraged to schedule respective district and diocesan level Youth Basketball Free-Throw Contests during the month of February, and are reminded that all district and diocesan contests should be completed by the last weekend in February. The contest is for boys and girls ages as of January 1st. District Deputies and Diocesan Deputies should verify ages via a copy of a birth certificate at the time of acceptance of the each score card. District and Diocesan Deputies must also confirm that councils current with their State Per Capita in order for contestants representing their councils to be eligible at the district, diocesan, and state level contests. The State contest will be held at Antonian High School in San Antonio on March 2, Contact Texas State Council Free-Throw Chairman Carl Bernal in San Antonio at (cell) or at chbern34@juno.com for more information. q February 1, 2013 Diocesan Free-Throw Medals Will Be Arriving State Programs Director Chris Johnson and State Free-Throw Chairman Carl Bernal report that the Diocesan Free-Throw Medals for the annual Diocesan Free- Throw Contest will be shipped to each individual diocesan deputy by February 1st q February 2, 2013 GROUND HOG DAY q February 12, 2013 LINCOLN S BIRTHDAY q February 13, 2013 ASH WEDNESDAY q February 14, 2013 VALENTINE S DAY q February 15, 2013 Semi-Annual Council Audit Report (Form #1295) Due Grand Knights must have their council s audit report for the time period of July 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012 completed and submitted to the Supreme Council office by February 15th. FINISH LINE 17

18 FEBRUARY 2013 REMINDERS continued q February 15, 2013 Family of the Month (Form 1993A) Due The Grand Knight of each council should appoint a Family Activities Chairman and select a Family of the Month each month. Form 1993A is due to the Supreme Council office by the 15th of the month for the immediate past month. Two families are selected from each jurisdiction each month to represent the Supreme Council and those families receive a small statue of the Holy Family in recognition of their selection. Participation in the Family-of-the-Month will count for one of the requirements of the Youth Activities section of the Columbian Award. A council that participates at least eight times in a timely manner during the fraternal year will be recognized with a special certificate from the State Council. The Family of the Month for January is due NOW. q February 13, 2013 ASH WEDNESDAY q February 18, 2013 Presidents Day q February 22, th Anniversary of the Fourth Degree One hundred charter members of the Charles Carroll Assembly took part in the first Grand Exemplification of the Fourth Degree on February 22, 1900 q February 22, 2013 Washington s Birthday q February 28, 2013 Diocesan Free Throw Tournaments Should Be Completed By This Date Diocesan Deputies are encouraged to hold their regional tournament during February. Winners advancing to the State Council Free Throw Tournament on March 2, 2013 at the Antonian High School in San Antonio must provide a copy of their birth certificate to State Council Youth Activities and Free Throw Chairman Carl Bernal in order to verify their age (ages 10 through 14 as of January 1st). The Story of the Running of the Silver Rose continued from page 8 After seeing the reception the rose received, it was Today four Silver Roses travel through North decided to have another rose made by the jewelers in America exemplifying Knights of Columbus devotion Monterrey. This special one would belong to all to Our Lady and commitment to the Culture of Life. assemblies, councils, and Squires circles One Rose begins its journey in Ontario moving encompassing the fourth district of Texas of the through the central United States. A second Rose Guadalupe Province. That rose was made of solid starts its route in Manitoba, moving westward to silver with special emphasis on its design. British Columbia and then down the Pacific coast There are two large roses representing the two through California before turning eastward to Arizona dioceses of the fourth district of Texas, a smaller rose and New Mexico. The third Rose starts in New York, between them indicating life and future growth. The moving through the eastern United States and the stems of the roses circle each other indicating unity Gulf coast. The Fourth Rose starts in Virginia moving and at their base are twelve additional small roses south along the Eastern Seaboard. representing the twelve Disciples. The base is made The four Roses converge at the International Bridge of marble from the mountains of Mexico, silver from in Laredo, Texas, where they are transferred to the its mines and labor from its people. Together with the Knights of Mexico who carry it to the Basilica of Our help from many in the most southern region of Texas Lady of Guadalupe in Monterrey, Mexico, where the and the northern region of Mexico, a tradition is alive program ends with a service on December 12, the and growing. Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. FINISH LINE 18

19 STAR COUNCIL Checklist FORM REPORT DUE DATE COMPLETE 185 Report of Officers JUL 01 P 365 REPORT OF PROGRAM PERSONNEL* AUG 01 P 1295 Semi-Annual Audit (ending Jun 30) AUG 15 P SUPREME PER CAPITA* OCT 10 P SUPREME CATHOLIC ADVERTISING* OCT 10 P FT-Kit Supreme Basketball Free Throw Kit NOV 01 P State Per Capita (LSAFE w/distinction) DEC 31 State Charities (LSAFE w/distinction) DEC ANNUAL FRATERNAL SURVEY* JAN Partnership Profile Special Olympics Report JAN Semi-Annual Audit (ending Dec 31) FEB 15 State Per Capita (LSAFE) MAR 01 State Educational Grant Application MAR 01 State Programs Award Entries MAR 15 State Family of the Year Entry MAR 15 State Public Relations Award Entry MAR 31 SUPREME PER CAPITA* APR 10 SUPREME CATHOLIC ADVERTISING* APR 10 SP7 COLUMBIAN AWARD APPLICATION* JUN 30 State Charities (LSAFE) JUN 30 MEMBERSHIP GAIN (7%, minimum of 3)* JUN 30 INSURANCE GAIN (3%, minimum of 3)* JUN RSVP Application JUN 30 *Star Council Award requirement LSAFE Lone Star Award for Excellence requirement FINISH LINE 19

20 Mark Johnson, Editor Mark Johnson, Website Master Visit us at Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus K of C Insurance John Regan, General Agent John F Regan, CFP, ChFC, CLU & FIC Texas State Council Insurance Liason General Agent Knights of Columbus Insurance 610 Coit Rd, Ste 100 Plano, TX Ofc EFax John.Regan@KofC.org FINISH LINE 20

21 MARKET PLACE Texas State Charities Donations of $20.00 or higher will be recognized with a State Charities Pin. Make check payable to Texas State Council Charities. Texas State Council Charities 6633 Highway 290 East, Suite 204 Austin, TX Name: Council No. Address: City, State, Zip: Telephone: ( ) - Amount Enclosed $ Presented (Y/N) Mark Johnson, Editor Send articles and photos to: Find An Agent Join The Guild Fr. Michael J. McGivney Guild Editor, Texas Knight 707 Harbor Drive Georgetown, TX mark.johnson@texasknight-news Published 3 times annually KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS C E L E B R A T I N G 130 YEARS OF FAITH IN ACTION Texas State Council Wheelchair Chairman Sam Szalwinski samkc@sbcglobal.net FINISH LINE 21

22 MARKET PLACE Texas State Council Knights of Columbus Contact Duchess Collins at: where good guys wear black Charity, Unity, Fraternity, Patriotism The Roman Catholic Diocese of Dallas For information on the exciting life of the priesthood, please contact the Vocations Office at KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS C E L E B R A T I N G 130 YEARS OF FAITH IN ACTION Send submissions to Bobb Mahrer, Editor r-mahrer@geusnet.com FINISH LINE 22