December Reminders FINISH LINE

… from Texas State Council Education and Training
Volume 4 Issue 12
Publication of the Texas State Council Knights of Columbus
E&T TEAM
DIRECTOR
Bobb Mahrer
(Glenda)
Greenville
903 455 4334 (Home)
903-455-4334
903-450-0770 (Cell)
[email protected]
STAR TRACKER RPT
Ken Boone
(Laura)
San Antonio
210 561 9451 (Home)
210-561-9451
[email protected]
STATE TRAINER
Craig Modrzynski
(Barbara)
Carrollton
972-395-3924 (Home)
972 443 5031 (W
972-443-5031
(Work)
k)
214-263-5275 (Cell)
[email protected]
STATE TRAINER
Pete Muceus
(Carol)
Sugar Land
281 491 9671 (H
281-491-9671
(Home))
281-244-8121 (Work)
[email protected]
STATE TRAINER
Joseph Maire
(Yvonne)
Deer Park
281 479 2118 (H
281-479-2118
(Home))
281-788-6284 (cell)
[email protected]
FINISH LINE
Dec 2009
December Reminders
Bobb Mahrer, Education and Training Director
Merry Christmas from E&T
One hundred and thirty
thirty-one
one years ago on Christmas Day
of this month, Father Michael J. McGivney climbed the pulpit
at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in New Haven, Connectivut for
the very first time as the assistant pastor. Looking out on his
new congregation, what was this 26-year old priest
thinking?. See page 2.
Bobb Mahrer
STATE DIRECTOR
Remember to “Help
p a Child in Need”
Christmas is one of the most joyous times of the year, especially for
children. Unfortunately, there are many children in need who can’t enjoy the
Christmas season. See page 2.
“Coats for Kids”
This winter, the Knights of Columbus will again continue its “Coats for Kids”
p g
program
bringing
g g new,, warm coats to children through
g the United States. See
page 2.
Pearl Harbor – Never Forget
The attack on Pearl Harbor was a surprise launched by the Imperial
Japanese Navy on the morning of Sunday, December 7, 1941. It was
intended to neutralize the American forces in the Pacific in an impending
World War II.
II See page 7.
7
Lone Star Award Winners
A list of the Lone Star Award winners will be provided in next month’s issue
of the FINISH LINE.
Copyright © 2009, Knights of Columbus, Texas State Council, Austin, Texas
Th “Finish
The
“Fi i h Line”
Li ” is
i provided
id d monthly
thl and
d electronically
l t i ll by
b the
th Education
Ed
ti and
d Training
T i i Team
T
and
d is
i a
running outlook of the activities, events, award criteria, and due dates for the next 30-60-90 days.
Specific questions about Membership, Programs, Charities, Council Development, and the specific
subjects therein should be directed to the appropriate State Director.
1
December 2009
DECEMBER HEADLINES
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
f
from
th Education
the
Ed
ti
and
d Training
T i i Team
T
Dear Brothers in Christ,
One hundred and thirty-one years ago on Christmas Day of this month, Father Michael J. McGivney
climbed the pulpit at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in New Haven, Connecticut for the very first time as the
assistant pastor. Looking out on his new congregation, what was this 26-year old priest thinking?
Ordained in Baltimore’s cathedral three days prior and having celebrated his first solemn Mass just hours
y
church in Waterbury,
y, Connecticut,, Father McGivney’s
y emotions must have been
before at his boyhood
running high. His life as a priest … something he had planned, studied, and prayed for since the age of 16
… was just beginning.
There is no record of the homily he preached on that morning of Christmas Day of 1877. But what he did
all the days thereafter, however, is the history we continue to research, and know, and live by as we live out
his vision of Catholic Knighthood.
We, the members of the Education and Training Team hope that you and your family are blessed on the
Holy Feast Day of Christmas and remain blessed during this Holy Season and throughout the new year.
Fraternally in Christ,
Bobb Mahrer,
Ken Boone
Craig Modrzynski
Bill Muceus
Joe Maire
Remember to “Help a Child in Need” This Christmas
Christmas is one of the most joyous times of the year, especially for children. Unfortunately, there are
many children in need who can’t enjoy the Christmas season. Every council is urged to conduct programs
to aid them as part of the Supreme Council Knights of Columbus “Help a Child in Need” initiative. Through
this initiative, councils are urged to undertake a variety of activities to help disadvantaged youths. Some
examples include distributing Christmas Food Baskets to families in need, collecting Christmas presets for
children who would otherwise go without gifts,
gifts supply meals to orphanages or shelters for mothers and their
children, or collecting funds to benefit foster child programs.
“Coats for Kids”
This winter, the Knights of Columbus will
again continue its “Coats for Kids” program
bringing new, warm coats to children
throughout the United States. The initiative
is part of the Order’s “Help a Child in Need”
campaign which began in 2006 with a
nationwide television appeal for donations to
charities that support the needs of children.
“Helping children in need was a
fundamental reason for the formation of the
K i ht off Columbus
Knights
C l b in
i 1882 and
d continues
ti
to be an important component of our work
today.” --Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson
FINISH LINE
2
December 2009
DECEMBER HEADLINES
Pearl Harbor - Never Forget
Pearl Harbor: The attack on Pearl Harbor was a surprise launched by the Imperial Japanese Navy on the
morning of Sunday, December 7, 1941. It was intended to neutralize the American forces in the Pacific in
an impending World War II. The attack destroyed 8 American battleships, severely damaged 9 other
warships, destroyed 188 aircraft, and killed 2,403 American servicemen and women. The following day,
President Franklin Roosevelt, addressing a joint session of Congress, called December 7 “a date which will
live in infamy.” Congress then declared war on Japan. Within days, Japan’s allies, Germany and Italy,
declared war on the United States.
FINISH LINE
3
December 2009
DECEMBER HEADLINES
… Next Month
Lone Star Award for Excellence
Follow Up
p
Host a First Degree
during
December
OUR NUMBERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Year 2008
68.8
68
8
$150
VOLUNTER SERVICE
More than $1.3 billion in charitable contributions
and 626 million volunteer hours in the last 10
Years
CHARITABLE
CONTRIBUTIONS
FINISH LINE
MILLION
HOURS
MILLION
DOLLARS
4
December 2009
DECEMBER HEADLINES
International Silver Rose Pilgrimage
S h d l Confirmed
Schedule
C fi
d by
b VSM Paul
P l Weigl
W i l (OK PSD)
For those of you who are interested in attending the transfer of the Silver Rose from Oklahoma to Texas, it
will take place at St. Mary Catholic Church in Gainesville, Texas at the 4:00 PM Vigil Mass on November 28,
2009. The officers of the Oklahoma State Council have scheduled the running of the Rose from Marietta,
Oklahoma to Gainesville, Texas for that Saturday morning, with completion in time to dress and prepare for
Mass. The route will follow Highway 77, south from Marietta to the state line.
Regarding the 50th Running of “La
La Rosa Plata
Plata” (the Sliver Rose) of Our Lady of Guadalupe,
Guadalupe transfer of the
Rose from United States to Mexico at the International Bridge in Laredo, Texas will take place on December
10th followed with a mass at the Basilica in Monterrey, Mexico on December 12th, the Feast of Our Lady of
Guadalupe.
This year, three Roses started in Ontario, Canada are traveling throughout the United States and will arrive
in Texas at El Paso, Beaumont, and Gainesville and will make their way to Laredo for the transfer to Mexico.
From Laredo, the Squires of Mexico will run the bouquet to the Basilica in Monterrey for the opening
procession at the 5:00 PM Mass offered by Cardinal Ortega on December 12th.
12th
Vivat Jesus,
Paul Weigl, PSD, Vice Supreme Master, Our Lady of Guadalupe Province
International Silver Rose Pilgrimage
Hotel and Travel Accommodations
HOTEL - LAREDO, TEXAS
- La Posada Hotel Suites
- 1000 Zaragoza St.
- Laredo, TX 78040
- 956-722-1701
- across from San Agustin Cathedral
- K of C block reservations
- Single or Double occupancy $89 + tax
- Reservations by individuals
TRAVEL – LAREDO / MONTERREY
- Round trip per person: $95
- Includes banquet dinner at KC Hall in Monterrey
on December 12.
- Bus to tourist attractions and organized tour in
Monterrey (does not include any entrance fees)
fees).
- The bus will remain at KC disposition throughout
the stay.
- Seating capacity is limited to 46.
- Reservations through Javier Cabello.
HOTEL - MONTERREY, MEXICO
- Radisson Gran Hotel Ancira Monterrey
- downtown historic Monterrey (5 Star)
- Single or Double occupancy $58 + tax
- Reservations through Javier Cabello
956-723-1738
956-206-1008 cell
956-723-6777 fax
jcabello@cabellocanales com
[email protected]
See next page for Itinerary
FINISH LINE
La Posada Hotel
5
Radisson Gran Hotel
December 2009
DECEMBER HEADLINES
International Silver Rose Pilgrimage
Itinerary
WEDNESDAY – DECEMBER 9, 2009 - LAREDO
03:00 PM – Registration at La Posada Hotel
07:30 PM – Informal Reception at San Agustin Cathedral Parish Hall (casual dress)
THURSDAY – DECEMBER 10, 2009 – LAREDO & MONTERREY
11:15 AM – All Sir Knights in regalia to meet at St. Agustin Cathedral Courtyard for instructions
11:30 AM – All dignitaries to arrive at St. Agustin Cathedral for instructions and processional align
12:00 PM – Mass
01:10 PM – Procession to International Bridge
01:15 PM – International Silver Rose transfer at mid-bridge
03:30 PM – Bus departs for Monterrey
Monterrey, Mexico
06:30 PM – Bus arrives in Monterrey
FRIDAY – DECEMBER 11, 2009 – MONTERREY
All Day – Free day for shopping and sight-seeing tours (coordinated by Monterrey Knights)
SATURDAY – DECEMBER 12, 2009 – MONTERREY
03 00 PM – Meet
03:00
M t in
i llobby
bb off R
Regalia
li H
Hotel
t l (f
(formall official
ffi i l d
dress))
03:15 PM – Depart to Our Lady of Guadalupe Basilica
05:00 PM – Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Basilica
06:45 PM – Board buss to Monterrey Council Hall (Council #2312)
07:30 PM – Dinner / Banquet
11:45 PM – Board bus to return to the hotel
SUNDAY – DECEMBER 13, 2009 – MONTERREY & LAREDO
07:30 AM – Bus departs for Laredo
12:00 PM – Buss arrives in Laredo
NOTE: Those wishing traveling to Mexico will need to have proof of citizenship on hand when
returning. A U.S. passport or a birth certificate with a photo ID will suffice.
MEXICO ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
U. S. citizens do not require a visa or a tourist card for tourist stays of 72 hours or less within
the “border zone” defined as an area between 20 to 30 kilometers from the U. S, border, depending
on location. U. S. citizens traveling as tourists beyond the “border zone” or entering Mexico by air
must pay a fee ($22) to obtain a tourist card, also known as an FM-T, available from Mexican
consulates, Mexican border crossing
g p
points, Mexican tourism offices, airports
p
within the “border
zone” and most airlines serving Mexico. The fee for the tourist card is generally included in the
price of a plane ticket for travelers arriving by air. Please note that travelers not in possession of
their FM-T card at the point of exit from Mexico may face a fine from Mexican Immigration (INM).
FINISH LINE
6
December 2009
DECEMBER 2009 REMINDERS
November 29, 2009 - Advent Begins
November 29th 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 encourage to
have a ceremony with the blessing of an Advent Wreath by the council chaplain and the lighting of its
candles.
December 1
1, 2009 - Order Membership Cards
Financial Secretaries and Comptrollers are reminded that it is time to order Membership Cards for Year
2007 from the Supreme Council Supplies Department.
 December 1, 2009 - 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.
 December 7, 2009 - Pearl Harbor Day
Plan a patriotic community activity that may be reported in the Community
Activities section of the Columbian Award application.
December 10
10, 2009 - Transfer of the Silver Rose from Laredo Diocese to Mexico
The transfer of the “Silver Rose” from the Laredo Diocese to Mexico will take place in the Laredo Diocese
at a 12:00 Noon mass at San Agustin Catholic Cathedral in Laredo on Thursday, December 10th under the
charge of Laredo Diocesan Deputy G. Javier Medellin and Texas State Deputy Javier Martinez.
The Silver Rose program features a sculpted silver rose
carried by Knights from Canada, through the United States,
to Mexico, bringing the Culture of Life message on its journey.
The silver rose is received at councils and parishes along
its way and Masses and prayer services are offered. Special
border ceremonies with the Fourth Degree Honor Guard are
held when the rose is transferred from one state to another.
The Silver Rose program is a sign of the Order’s unity on life
issues.
Busses to Monterrey (Mexico) will depart from Laredo
g to Mexico will
at 3:30 PM on Dec 10th. Those traveling
need to have proof of citizenship on hand when returning.
International Bridge at Laredo, Texas
A U.S. Passport or birth certificate with a photo ID will suffice.
FINISH LINE
7
December 2009
DECEMBER 2009 REMINDERS continued
December 12, 2009 - Our Lady of Guadalupe (Patroness of the Unborn)
Plan a pro-life activity that may be reported in the Church Activities section of the
Columbian Award application.
December 15, 2009 - 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-ofthe Month” will count for one of the requirements of the Youth Activities section of the Columbian Award
the-Month
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.
 December 15, 2009 – Deadline for Advertisement in
State Columbian Squires Mid-Year Convention Program Book
The mid-year State Squires Convention will be held during the weekend of January 15-17, 2010 in Laredo,
Texas The support from Councils and Assemblies is requested by placing an ad in the 2010 State Squires
Texas.
Mid-ear Convention Program Book. Ad prices are as follows: Full Page $100, Half Page $50, Fourth page
$25, Business Card size $15. Make checks payable to “Columbian Squires”, and mail to State Columbian
Squires Chairman Dean Gutierrez, 2610 Rosales Ave., Brownsville, TX 78521, cell 956-345-9939. Ads may
be submitted via email to [email protected] . The publication deadline is December 15, 2009.
December 25, 2009 - Keep Christ in Christmas
Plan a church, community, family, or youth activity that may be reported in the
appropriate section of Columbian Award application
 December 31, 2009 - State Council Charity Goal is Due (Early Deadline)
Grand Knights needs to make sure their council’s Charity Goal to the Texas State Charities is paid by
December 31st in order to qualify for the prestigious Lone Star Award with Distinction from the Texas State
Council.
 December 31, 2009 - State Council Per Capita is Due (Early Deadline)
Grand Knights needs to make sure their council’s State Per Capita assessment is paid by December 31st
in order to qualify for the prestigious Lone Star Award for Excellence and the Lone Star Award for
Excellence with Distinction from the Texas State Council.
 December
D
b 4-5-6,
4 5 6 2009 - Mid-Year
Mid Y
M
Meeting
ti
Crown Plaza Hotel, 14315 Midway Rd., Addison, TX 75001, 972-980-8877 (North Dallas)
FINISH LINE
8
December 2009
JANUARY 2010 REMINDERS
January 1-31, 2010 – 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
10-14 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 6, 2010. Contact Texas State Council FreeThrow Chairman Carl Bernal in San Antonio at 210-497-8651 or email at
[email protected] for more information.
January 1
1-31,
31, 2010 – Diocesan Conferences – Winter 2010
The schedule of diocesan conferences during January and February will be announced in the January 2010
issue of the FINISH LINE.
COLUMBIAN SQUIRES CONVENTION
January 8-9-10 2010 - Mid-Year Squires Convention
Circle Officers are encouraged
g to attend the mid-year
y
State Squires
q
Convention
which will be hosted by Circle 4954 at Laredo, Texas. The mid-year State
Squires Convention will be held during the weekend of January 8-9-10, 2010 in
Laredo, Texas. The support of Councils and Assemblies is requested by
placing an ad in the 2010 State Squires Mid-ear Convention Program Book. Ad
Prices are as follows: Full Page $100, Half Page $50, Fourth page $25, Business
Card size $15. Make checks payable to “Columbian Squires Circle #4954, and mail
to Dean Gutierrez, State Columbian Squires Chairman, 2610 Rosales Ave., Brownsville, TX 78521. Ads may
be submitted Dean Gutierrez via email to [email protected] . The publication deadline is December 15,
2009. Contact Dean Gutierrez at 956-542-0603 for more information.
January 3-10, 2010 – 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 To Support Vocations”
may be found at www.para.catholic.org/News/Vocations/Parish.htm.
www para catholic org/News/Vocations/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.)
FINISH LINE
9
December 2009
JANUARY 2010 REMINDERS continued
January 15, 2010 - 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.
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.
January
y 16-17,, 2010 - 37th Annual March for Life
Contact Texas State Council Pro-Life Chairman Tom Clark in the Dallas area at 972-278-9224 or email at
[email protected] for more information about Pro-Life Activities, particularly, the ACE Wings program.
January 31, 2010 - Annual Survey of Fraternal Activity Report (Form #1728)
Councils (and Assemblies and Circles) must complete and submit their 2009 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.
 January 31, 2010 - 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
Knights.
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.
 January 31, 2010 - Culture of Life Fund Assessment Wheelchair
is Due
Program is Rolling
At the 127th Annual Supreme Council Meeting in Quebec during August 2009, the delegates unanimously
SanThe
Antonio
renewed their approval of the establishment of the Culture of Life In
Fund.
purpose of the fund is to promote
Archbishop
the San
g matters affecting
g life,, family,
y, and marriage.
g In other words,, toJose
build Gomez
a Cultureof
of Life.
the Catholic teaching
Antonio
a wheelchair
on October
All councils in the United States and Canada, including territories
will beblesses
assessed
$3 per member
on your
10, 2009
in the Chapel
of Padua
Place,
a
council’s membership roster as of July 1, 2009. The assessment
will exclude
Honorary,
Honorary
Life,
Disabled, and Inactive Insurance members.
retirement and assisted living facility for
Financial Secretaries will receive a separate billing for the assessment.
Payment
in full isHeights,
due by January
retired clergy
in Alamo
Texas.
31, 2010. Additional councils contributions are encouraged. Personal
checks
should
be
made
out tothan
the
The wheelchair was one of more
Knights of Columbus with the notation “Culture of Life Fund” in the100
memo.
donated by the San Antonio Knights
Each council received a letter from the Supreme Secretary during October outlining where the funds are to
for the use of the residents.
residents Looking on
be sent.
(left of the archbishop) is San Antonio
Supreme Director and Texas State Deputy Javier Martinez reminds Texas Knights that they must step
Diocesan
Deputy
Sam
Szalwinski.
forward in a big way and announce their support for the Culture of
Life so that
no one
doubts
our commitment
to life, marriage, and our families.
 January 31, 2010 - Adopt All Seminarians
State Deputy Javier Martinez 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.
31st In addition,
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
10
December 2009
FEBRUARY 2010 REMINDERS
February 1-29, 2010 – 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 10-14 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 7, 2009. Contact Texas State Council FreeThrow Chairman Carl Bernal in San Antonio at 210-497-8651 or email at [email protected] for more
information.
 February 1, 2010 – Diocesan Free-Throw Medals Will Be Arriving
State Programs Director Alfredo Vela and State Free
Free-Throw
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 1, 2009.
February 2, 2010 – GROUND HOG DAY
February 12, 2010 – LINCOLN’S BIRTHDAY
February 14
14, 2010 – VALENTINE
VALENTINE’S
S DAY
February 15, 2010 – Semi-Annual Council Audit Report (Form #1295) Due
Grand Knights must have their council’s audit report for the time period of July 1, 2009 through December
31, 2009 completed and submitted to the Supreme Council office by February 15th.
FINISH LINE
11
December 2009
FEBRUARY 2010 REMINDERS continued
February 15, 2010 – 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.
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.
 February
y 21,, 2010 – Presidents Day
y
 February 22, 2010 – Washington’s Birthday
 February 27, 2009 – Wheelchair Distribution
State Program Director Alfredo Vela reports that the Wheelchair distribution from Texas to Mexico
is scheduled for February 27 thru March 1. On Friday afternoon, February 27th, participants will
depart from St. Mark Catholic Church in San Antonio and arrive in Nuevo Laredo for an evening
meal. On Saturday, February 28th, a partial distribution will follow Mass. On Sunday, March 1st,
the remaining distribution will be completed following Mass. Bus transportation is currently being
arranged.
 February 28, 2010 – Diocesan Free Throw Tournaments Should Be Completed
Diocesan Deputies are encouraged to hold their regional tournament during the last half of February.
Winners advancing to the State Council Free Throw Tournament on March 7, 2009 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).
Congratulations to Texas
for surpassing 90
90,000
000 members
members.
OUR NUMBERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Year 2007
393,030 Blood Donors
68
$145
VOLUNTER SERVICE
More than $1.2 billion in charitable contributions
in the last 10 Years
CHARITABLE
CONTRIBUTIONS
FINISH LINE
12
MILLION
HOURS
MILLION
DOLLARS
December 2009
DECEMBER REMINDERS
Pro-Life Added as Sixth Service Program Category
Effective this 2009-2010 fraternal y
year, rather than report
p
“Pro-Life activities under the “Community”
y
category, you will report them under the newly created “Pro-Life” category. If you use either the State
Service Program Awards (#STSP) entry form or the Columbian Award (#SP-7) application from the Council
Report Forms booklet (#1436), you will need to make a couple of simple changes. In reporting your
council’s best Pro-Life program to your state council, write “Pro-Life” in the area at the top of the form where
the other categories are listed. On the Columbian Award application, attach a separate sheet of paper
listing your four reported program in the “Pro-Life” category. Electronic versions are being updated.
Get New First Degree Certificates
Supreme Knight Carl Anderson recently announced that all
First Degree ceremonials until June 30, 2010, will be conducted in
honor of our beloved priests. New member certificates honoring
“YEAR FOR PRIESTS” (#268 09/09) can be ordered from the
Supply Department. You may print the candidate’s name and
d t on the
date
th certificate
tifi t on your home
h
computer
t by
b using
i
th
the
template link provided on the Supreme Council website under
“For Officers”. You may also print the certificate directly from your
home computer.
Prizes begin in Week 10
of the NFL schedule. Checks will be
mailed automatically to the winners.
Follow along on the tkofc website.
P
Pray
th Rosary
the
R
- New
N
G id Available
Guide
A il bl
The newly revised “Guide to Praying the Rosary (#4772) is a full color
pamphlet that explains how to pray the Rosary. This guide (sized to easily fit
into a pocket, pocketbook, or prayer book) includes scripture passages and
images associated with the mysteries of the Rosary, the prayers of the Rosary,
and a method of praying the Rosary. The guide, offered in lost of 100 for $4,
y sending
g an email to [email protected]
@
g or by
y calling
g 203-752can be ordered by
4267. This item is also available through the Supreme Council Supply
Department, 78 Meadow St., New Haven CT 06519. Use a requisition Form #1
and fax to 1-800-266-6340.
Quota Bar for Membership Has Been Raised to 7%
Starting July 1, 2009, the new membership quota will be based on the 7% net gain of a council’s
membership (with a minimum of 3 members and a maximum of 35 members).
This quota is up 2% over previous years and affects qualifying for the Father McGivney and Star Council
Awards.
FINISH LINE
13
December 2009
DECEMBER REMINDERS
Year for Priests Holy Card Available
In keeping with the Order
Order’s
s longstanding “In
In Solidarity With Our
Priests” campaign, the Supreme Knight has called upon all Knights to
actively participate in the “Year for Priests” declared by Pope Benedict
XVI. The centerpiece of the Order’s program for this yearlong
celebration (June 19, 2009 thru June 19, 2010) is a new holy card
(#4864) featuring a prayer for priests. This prayer should be used at
all council meetings and events, as well as in the homes of members
during their family prayers.
prayers The card features an icon on its front
showing Christ in Mass vestments with a gold pelican over his heart,
the ancient symbol of self-sacrifice. At the bottom of the icon is an
altar prepared for Mass, and at the sides are Melchizedek, whose
sacrifice of bread and wine prefigured the Eucharist, and St. John
Vianney, the patron of parish priests. The back of the card includes a
prayer for priests. The card can be ordered in amounts of 100 at a
cost o
of $3 from
o tthe
e Supp
Supply
y Department.
epa t e t
You can download an order form and more information from the
Supreme Council website at www.kofc.org/YearForPriests
A Pledge to Our Lady
The most important event in the evangelization of the New
y the Virgin
g
World occurred when, over the course of four days,
Mary appeared to Juan Diego. As a result of this encounter,
and the image miraculously imprinted by Our Lady on Juan
Diego’s tilma (cloak), millions of Native Americans embraced
the Catholic faith and the America began to be transformed
into “the Catholic hemisphere.”
Devotion to Mary has always been an integral part of the
Knights of Columbus. To recognize this devotion, Knights
and their families throughout the Order are asked to complete
an Our Lady of Guadalupe pledge and prayer card (#9754).
Copies of these cards were included in the Surge With
Service kits sent to all Financial Secretaries of record.
Additional copies are available from the Supply Department.
Knights are asked to sign the pledge card, consecrating
themselves entirely to Mary in the promise to defend human
lif from
life
f
th momentt off conception
the
ti
t natural
to
t l death.
d th The
Th
member keeps one copy of the pledge while the second
signed copy of each pledge should be collected by the council
and mailed to: Knights of Columbus, ATTN: Luis Guevara,
One Columbus Plaza, New Haven, CT 06510-3326.
The Supreme Council will present these signed copies in
honor of Our Lady during a Mass at the Basilica of Guadalupe
in Mexico.
Mexico Members and their families are encouraged to join
in this commitment to the culture of life through honoring
Mary.
FINISH LINE
14
December 2009
STAR COUNCIL GOALS
2009-2010
The State Deputy has set some ambitious but obtainable goals for this
fraternal year, including 166 Star Councils. See the following chart for the
goal in each diocese/archdiocese.
STAR COUNCILS
STAR
COUNCIL
GOAL
2009-2010
DIOCESE
2005-2006
2006-2007
2007-2008
2008-2009
ACTIVE
COUNCILS
2009-2010
AMARILLO
6
3
2
2
20
5
AUSTIN
19
14
12
18
83
21
BEAUMONT
3
5
5
0
27
7
BROWNSVILLE
11
5
7
6
33
8
CORPUS CHRISTI
12
8
2
5
49
12
DALLAS
20
13
22
15
48
12
EL PASO
1
3
3
2
27
7
FORT WORTH
23
11
15
12
50
13
GAL-HOUSTON
23
33
27
24
113
28
LAREDO
2
1
1
2
19
5
LUBBOCK
2
3
3
3
17
4
SAN ANGELO
2
2
5
2
31
8
SAN ANTONIO
16
17
14
10
88
22
TYLER
1
2
1
3
26
6
VICTORIA
3
4
4
1
32
8
144
122
123
105
663
166
TOTAL
Knights of Columbus
Knights of Columbus
MEMBERSHIP
INSURANCE
Experience of a Lifetime
Making a difference for life
FINISH LINE
15
December 2009
FINISH LINE
FORM
Checklist
REPORT
DUE DATE
SENT DATE
185
Report of Officers
07-01-2009

365
REPORT OF PROGRAM PERSONNEL*
08-01-2009

1295
Semi-Annual Audit (ending Jun 30)
08-15-2009

SUPREME PER CAPITA
CAPITA*
10-10-2009
10
10 2009

SUPREME CATHOLIC ADVERTISING*
10-10-2009

Supreme Free Throw Kit
11-01-2009

State Per Capita (LSAFE w/distinction)
12-31-2009

State Charities (LSAFE w/distinction)
12 31 2009
12-31-2009

1728
ANNUAL FRATERNAL SURVEY*
01-29-2010
4584
Partnership Profile Special Olympics Report
01-29-2010
1295
Semi-Annual Audit (ending Dec 31)
02-15-2010
State Per Capita (LSAFE)
03-01-2010
State Educational Grant Application
03-01-2010
State Programs Award Entries
03-15-2010
State Family of the Year Entry
03-15-2010
State Public Relations Award Entry
03-31-2010
SUPREME PER CAPITA*
04-10-2010
SUPREME CATHOLIC ADVERTISING*
04-10-2010
COLUMBIAN AWARD APPLICATION*
06-30-2010
State Charities (LSAFE)
06-30-2010
MEMBERSHIP GAIN (7%)*
06-30-2010
INSURANCE GAIN (3 or 3%)*
06-30-2010
RSVP Application
06-30-2010
FT-Kit
SP7
2863
*Star Council Award requirement
FINISH LINE
LSAFE – Lone Star Award for Excellence requirement
16
December 2009
KNIGHTS
OF COLUMBUS
TEXAS
STATE COUNCIL
CELEBRATING
127
YEARS
OF FAITH IN ACTION
1882–2009
ONE NATION UNDER GOD
… a family organization
The Knights of Columbus is the world’s largest lay organization with more than
1.7 million members annually donating over $150 million and nearly 69 million
hours of service to charitable causes. Visit www.kofc.org or www.tkofc.org for
more information.
K of C Membership … “Experience of a Lifetime”
“Congratulations to Texas for surpassing 90,000 members.”
Ron Gay, Former Supreme Director
Charity, Unity, Fraternity, Patriotism
Join the
Fr. Michael J. McGivney
Guild
FINISH LINE
17
December 2009