The Sword Nativity of Our Lord Council No. 14658 185 Applegarth Road Monroe Township, NJ 08831 Editor: Paul Pittari Volume 10, Issue 10 ww.nativitykofc.com October 2018 Nativity Council Officers Chaplain Rev. Grand Knight Dep. Grand Knight Chancellor Recorder Financial Secretary Treasurer Advocate Warden Lecturer Inside Guard Outside Guard One-Year Trustee Two-Year Trustee Three-Year Trustee District Deputy 63 PGK, PFN, and FDD VA Chairman Field Agent Rel. Rights Chairman Edward Flanagan Francis Macchiaroli Rob Di Bella Tony Orsini Tony Cardello Ini Udom Bob Macchiarola Len Edson Dan Kennedy Bob McGee Len Caglianone Lou Russo Paul Pittari Tony D Ausilio Joe Bruno Scott Williams Joseph Sabella Joseph Conti Norbert Mendes Len Edson (pro tem) Nativity K of C Calendar for 2018 - October Monday, the 1st: Business Meeting 7:30 PM Officers Meeting 6:30 PM Monday, the 15th: Social Meeting 6:30 PM Saturday, the 20 th : Oktoberfest Party 6:30 PM Grand Knight s Message Brothers There is much to be said of the events in September. The Parish Picnic was a great success by all that attended (350) except that we lost about $500. The exact amount will be published at our next business meeting. I want to thank those Brothers that supplied their own propane tanks, and to those that didn't want the money to refill them. Thank you. You know who you are. The picnic itself has become a problem due to escalating costs and reduced contributions from Nativity, therefore the consensus is not to have one next year. The thousands of dollars we save will afford us the opportunity to have a catered affair of our choosing to the delight of our membership so no one has to cook and be away from their loved ones! The new resolution concerning the cooking teams is something that I totally disagree with since I have other ideas to make it work better. This is something that you decided as a Council and we will live with this decision until further notice. It will be difficult for other Brothers who feel that they do as much or more throughout the year instead of just a few days cooking maybe three times each year. Continued on Page 2
Continued from Page 1 This will cause animosity and begin to separate this Council, not a good thing! The #MeToo generation will take shape and eventually we will be sorry over the long run of this hasty decision. We now move on to October and with that comes our very first Oktoberfest. Some officers felt it was not necessary for me to add this new event following the picnic. All I can say is that the Grand Knight sets the calendar of events for the fiscal year as he sees fit with new ideas. The next Grand Knight will do the same, it s his discretion. Well let me tell you that this new idea is moving at a faster pace and some Brothers may not be able to attend if we meet our occupancy limits, so please get your checks in ASAP. Vivat Jesus, Francis Macchiaroli, Grand Knight Annual Club Picnic It may have been a couple of years since our last Picnic, but the volunteering Brothers showed no rust in putting together a smooth-running affair. This Nativity picnic was very different compared to earlier years. First of all, there was no outdoor Mass as in previous years. Secondly, Grand Knight Francis planned a new tent layout, configuring the tents in a U -shape rather than the conventional rectangular arrangement. Also, in place of the long lines of tables, the layout used round tables which led to a more social, intimate setting for the guests. As the guests arrived to register, they were greeted by background music played by DJ Gary Morton. After all attendees were seated, Council master chef, Brother Joe Tardo, commenced calling tables to the food service area. On the menu were hamburgers, franks, beans, onions, etc. and an assortment of condiments, along with various beverages, wine and beer, plus guests were invited to BYOB. For dessert there was watermelon, snacks with coffee and cookies. Kids in attendance enjoyed the afternoon on the air-inflated bouncy castle, face painting and soccer. The event was capped off with a 50-50 raffle By 6 PM, most of the attendees had left, and the Brothers began the process of closing and neatly stacking the tables and chairs for pick-up by the tent rental company. The day was a great display of organization and skill, expertly carried out by our volunteers. Peace, Brother Paul Pittari, SWORD Editor (See accompanying photos on pages 3, 4, 5 and 6.) Continued on Page 3 October 2018 Newsletter - Page 2
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Notice of Resolutions Please consider the following resolutions: Resolution 1: Whereas, a proposal was submitted by Brother Dan Kennedy at the September Business Meeting that we hire the entertainer whose stage name is Uncle Floyd for a comedy show, and Whereas, the event would take place in the spring or summer of 2019, and will be held at the Nativity s Father Congdon Hall, therefore, let it be Resolved, That the Council hire said individual at a cost of $750. Resolution 2: Whereas, a proposal was tendered by Brother Paul Pittari at the September Business Meeting regarding members of the kitchen staff whose work requirements preclude them from participating in the event in which they are servicing, and Whereas, in the past, these Brothers have been obligated to pay for the event although their work assignments did not permit them to derive the same benefits as paid attendees at the event, therefore, let it be Resolved, that the Council exempt the designated kitchen staff (upward of six Brothers as so designated by our Grand Knight and the principal kitchen staff member) from paying the fee for the event they are servicing. Attention Before voting on Resolution No. 2, please consider an alternate version incorporating the views of Grand Knight Francis Macchiaroli, as noted below. First, everyone must pay as before. This just makes sense and would keep records in order. Now regarding the question as to who gets a free pass, the Grand Knight and the Head Chef (Brother Joe Tardo) will decide. After all monies are collected, those getting the exemption will be issued a refund check when all accounting is complete. This is the best way to approach this without confusion. Your attendance at our October Business Meeting is requested to vote on Resolution No. 1, and to deliberate on the amended version of Resolution No. 2, as set forth by Grand Knight Francis Macchiaroli. Peace, Brother Paul Pittari, SWORD Editor October 2018 Newsletter - Page 7
Celebration of Independence Day of India and Pakistan On August 18 th, Color Corps members from three Assemblies participated in a ritual at Our Lady of Peace, R.C. Church in North Brunswick honoring Our Lady of Good Health and commemorating Independence Day of India and Pakistan. The celebrant and homilist was the Most Reverend Bishop James F. Checchio, Bishop of the Diocese of Metuchen. In attendance were State Deputy Robert E Hatler, State Secretary Vincent P. Tavormina, and Supreme Director Dr. Daniel Rossi, Ph.D. Participating from Our Immaculate Conception Assembly were Co-Color Corps Commander Joseph Sabella, along with Sir Knights John Vergano and Joseph Bruno. Brother Paul Pittari, SWORD Editor October 2018 Newsletter - Page 8
Life Insurance As a Gift? The initial reaction for many people when you mention life insurance as a gift is a quick step back and a questioning stare. How morbid, they think. While it may seem that way when you first mention it, life insurance is really a thoughtful gift that can be a financial life preserver in tough times. The problem with life insurance is the general perception. Many think of death instead of the great benefits it provides, and the security that it offers even while you re alive. Life insurance should be thought of as a precautionary protective measure for a family unit. The purchase of this product can mean saving your home, sending your children to college, and preserving your spouse s quality of life in the event of your death. One of the times you may want to purchase life insurance for someone is when a family has a new baby. It s a great, low-cost way to set money aside for the future (i.e. college tuition, housing, business start-up, etc.). Of greater importance, it ensures these children will have insurance as adults, in case an illness later in life makes him or her uninsurable. Newlyweds are also ideal recipients for life insurance. As they join their lives and financial responsibilities, young couples need to make sure that their early investments are fully protected. If something were to happen to one of them, the other may be faced with serious financial hardship. A life insurance policy is an ideal way to ensure their future and protect their assets. As nontraditional as it may be, life insurance is a wise and caring gift to purchase for many people. Field Agent: Norbert Mendes Phone: 609.331.3636 Email: norbert.mendes@kofc.org Brothers Birthdays Our Council has Brothers who will be celebrating their birthdays this month of October. Happy birthday to: Anthony Guerriero Jay Bubb Norbert Osborne Richard Delpriore Paul Lundy Francis Farrell Raymond Dunne Robert Gatto Guy Giuliano Michael McGarry John Shelton Patrick Tedaldi Vivek Sequeira Gary Fernicola October 2018 Newsletter - Page 9
Casino Day at The Lyons VA Center The trip to the Lyons VA Health Care facility for our annual Vets Casino Day is scheduled for Tuesday, October 23rd, at 2 p.m. I ll need Brothers with SUVs or other larger cars to help bring the equipment. Please call me at 609-860-1084. My email address is joefconti@comcast.net. We will depart from Nativity at 12:30 PM. For those going on their own, the address is 151 Knollcroft Road, Lyons NJ 07939. Their telephone number is 908-647-0180. The building the event is being held at is the Community Living Center located at the west end of the complex. The name is written on the building. Wives play an important part, so please encourage them to attend. This is one of the most rewarding events on our calendar both to help the vets and also to carry on the fine tradition started by Brother Jay Bubb. Thank you, Brother Joe Conti Oktoberfest Party The Council will be hosting our Oktoberfest Party on Saturday, October 20th starting at 6:30 PM. The registration cutoff date is October 15th. The cost is $25 per person. In addition to traditional Octoberfest food such as bratwurst, knockwurst, roasted pork, with sauerkraut and apple sauce and potato pancakes, there ll be German chocolate cake and ice cream along with bottled water, soda, wine and beer plus you can BYOB. We ll also have a 50/50 raffle. And to help you dance the night away, we ll have music provided by DJ Mike Malone of Music N Motion Entertainment. Since the party is open to the parish, seats are filling up quickly. So, my let s get going and send in your checks, or email (fjm210@aol.com) or phone (917-622-6815) me with your intentions very soon or you may miss out on this great event. I would be very disappointed to have to inform a Council Member that a parishioner took precedence over him, because he waited until the last minute to send in his check. Remember that the hall can only accommodate about 225 individuals and that is really tight, so don t delay. Check out the Church Bulletin for our advertisement, and see flyer at the rear of this issue of the SWORD. Peace, Francis Macchiaroli, Grand Knight October 2018 Newsletter - Page 10
Chapter 4 Meeting Dates for 2018 (Editor s Note: The New Jersey Chapter No. 4 of the Knights of Columbus consists of the 60 Councils within the Diocese of Metuchen. The primary purpose of the Chapter is to promote the well-being of the Order within the Chapter boundaries. It considers all matters of Catholic concerns, adopting such measures that protect and promote these interests. It also addresses the general condition of the Councils within the Chapter, the welfare of their members, and the need to provide financial and other assistance for cases of genuine distress among them. Chapter 4 meetings are held once a month at various locations throughout the Diocese. Our Former District Deputy, Joseph Sabella, is asking that we have at least one representative from our Council in attendance at the following Chapter 4 scheduled meetings as shown below.) Worthy The following are the Chapter 4 meeting dates currently on the schedule for the 2018 Columbian Year. All meetings are on the 3rd Friday at 8 PM unless otherwise indicated. Oct. 26, 2018 (Fourth Friday) at 8:00 PM Immaculate Conception Council #6245, 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ. Nov. 16, 2018 (Memorial Mass) at 7:30 AM Our Lady of Victory Council #2061; 775 Washington Rd., Sayreville, NJ Dec. 2018 No Meeting Fraternally, Joseph L. Sabella, PGK, PFN, FDD Blood Drive Our Blood Drive Coordinator, Brother Peter Marino, reports that the next Nativity of Our Lord, Community Blood Drive will be on Sunday, October 14th from 8 AM to 12:30 PM. Plasma, a vital constituent in our blood, is used to treat cancer, burn victims, accident injuries, surgeries and other medical applications. If you can help by donating a pint of blood, please stop by the Nativity Hall on the 14 th, and make your contribution to this life-saving cause. All donors will get a coupon for a free appetizer or dessert at Otillia s Café in Spotswood. A flyer with the details, including the medical requirements for donating, can be found at the end of this newsletter. Peace, Brother Paul Pittari, SWORD Editor October 2018 Newsletter - Page 11
Awards At last month s Business Meeting, two awards were handed out, one incoming, another outgoing. The incoming was a certificate awarded to the Council by FDD Joe Schiavo on behalf of the American Lung Association. It was presented as a result of the Council s donation to the Association. Following that, Grand Knight Francis Macchiaroli, presented a certificate of appreciation to Brother Lenny Caglianone for coordinating the Trenton ballgame activity, which read: CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION THIS CERTIFICATE IS AWARDED TO: Sir Knight Len Caglianone In thankful recognition of his service in organizing the Council s annual outing to the Trenton Thunder baseball games including the ballpark collections for God's Special Children. His dedicated efforts in coordinating these events have delighted attending friends and family members alike. With deep appreciation for all you do for our Council. Presented this day, September 4, 2018, Signed by Grand Knight Francis J. Macchiaroli Brother Paul Pittari, SWORD Editor October2018 Newsletter - Page 12
Assembly New Year s Eve Party Sir Knights, Our Immaculate Conception Assembly, will be hosting a New Year s Eve Party at the Nativity s Father Congdon Hall. The cost is $67 per person and is open to all Brothers regardless of Degree level and also to the public. It will be a catered affair with wine, beer soda and bottled water. You can also BYOB if desired. A five-piece band will play dance music to welcome in the new year of 2019. A registration form is included at the back of this issue of the SWORD. Please direct any questions to Deputy Grand Knight, Rob Di Bella at 347-623-8060. Brother Paul Pittari, SWORD Editor A Place in the Woods Many of us may not be familiar with a place called Mackinac Island in the state of Michigan. But that s where our Council Brother, Bill Werkmeister, Sr., and his wife, Denise, found themselves, on their way to attend the marriage of their son and Council member, Bill Werkmeister, Jr. to his fiancée, Sarah. And how is this Council news? Well on the drive up from Grand Rapids to the Island, Brother Bill, Sr. got a call from his son, Brother Bill, Jr., letting his father know that their drive would bring them close to a special place. That special place is called the Cross in the Woods and is located in the unincorporated community of Indian River just about 40 miles due south of Mackinac Island. And what is the Cross in the Woods? It s a Catholic enclave declared a national shrine by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The most prominent feature of the shrine is a huge, redwood crucifix, measuring 55 feet high holding a 7-ton, bronze casting of the body of Christ. The link to the Knights of Columbus comes about because along the walkways of the shrine, there are dedicated areas and statues to the Holy Family, Our Lady of the Highway, St. Peregrine (the Cancer Saint), the Holy Family, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Kateri Tekakwitha and surprisingly, also to our founder, the Venerable Michael J, McGivney. As it turned out, shortly after Pope Benedict XVI affirmed Farther McGivney as Venerable (the first step to sainthood) in 2008, the local Knights of Columbus Council, St. Kateri Tekakwitha No. 7365, purchased a statue of Father McGivney. They then constructed a memorial shed to contain the statue along with an information board and other artifacts associated with the Father. And so, for Brother Bill, Sr. and Denise, the trip to Mackinac Island took an unexpected turn on the way to their son s wedding. A turn that led them to Father McGivney and back to the Knights of Columbus. Peace, Brother Paul Pittari. SWORD Editor (See accompanying photos on page 14.) October 2018 Newsletter - Page 13
Assembly Color Corps in Action Members of our Immaculate Conception Assembly Color Corps were in attendance of the installation of Msgr. Joseph Celano by our Bishop Joseph Checchio. The ceremony took place at St. Peter the Apostle R.C. Church, New Brunswick on Sunday, September 23 rd. Participating in the ceremony were Council Sir Knights, Color Corps Commander Joseph Sabella and Joseph Caccavo. Brother Paul Pittari, SWORD Editor Continued on Page 15 October 2018 Newsletter - Page 14
Continued from Page 14 Prayer for Priests At the September 21 st Chapter 4 Meeting, various topics of interest were discussed which will addressed at our Business Meeting by our District Deputy. During the meeting, the following prayer was recited by the attendees. PRAYER FOR OUR PRIESTS Gracious and loving God, we thank you for the gift of our Priests. Through them, we experience your presence in the sacraments. Help our priests to be strong in their vocation. Set their souls on fire with love for your people. Grant them the wisdom, understanding and strength they need to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Inspire them with the vision of your Kingdom. Give them the words they need to spread the Gospel. Allow them to experience joy in their ministry. Help them to become instruments of your divine grace. We ask this through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns as our Eternal Priest. Amen We all were asked to bring this prayer back to our Councils and recite it at our meetings. Peace Brother Joseph Sabella, FDD Service to one. In Service to all.
Knights of Columbus Nativity of Our Lord Council 14658 PRESENTS OCTOBERFEST OCTOBER 20TH, SATURDAY NIGHT AT 6:30 PM FEAST YOUR EYES ON THESE DELIGHTS BRATWURST KNOCKWURST ROAST PORK SWEDISH MEATBALLS POTATO PANCAKES SAURKRAUT & APPLE SAUCE GERMAN CHOCOLATE CAKE & ICE CREAM BEVERAGES, WINE, BEER & BYOB 50/50 Raffle "DJ" Mike Malone Music N' Motion Entertainment $25 per person Tables seat 8 people Make checks payable to: K of C 14658 Name Name Name Name Name Name Name Name Name Contacts: Francis Macchiaroli, Grand Knight, 917-622-6815 Tony Cardello, Recording Secretary, 917-282-6818