St. John The Evangelist

Council 11171

Clinton Maryland

* Charity * Unity * Fraternity * Patriotism *

Membership Information

The Knights of Columbus is the world's largest Catholic family fraternal service organization with 1.6 million members.   Founded in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney in New Haven, Connecticut, it provides members and their families with volunteer opportunities in service to the Catholic Church, their communities, families and young people.  Learn about The Life & Legacy of Father McGivney by clicking here.

What are the membership benefits?

        As a member of the Knights of Columbus you and your family enjoy many benefits, including 12 free issues annually of the Columbia magazine, the world's largest Catholic family magazine, eligibility to join the Knights of Columbus top-ranked life insurance program, and many more family and personal benefits.

What does it mean to be a Knight?

        Membership in the Knights of Columbus has a different meaning and motivation for each individual, but all Knights have certain things in common. Among these are a love of God, the Church, and Family. Love of Country, Community, and his brother Knights. The willingness to give of yourself to help your brother Knights and those in need, and the determination to make the world a better place for us all.

How to join

        Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to practical Catholic men in union with the Holy See, who are at least 18 years old. A practical Catholic is one who lives up to the Commandments of God and the precepts of the Church. Application blanks are available from any member of the Knights of Columbus.

For membership information in our Council, contact the Grand Knight, Eugene Rashlich by sending E-Mail to his personal E-Mail address:  emr1r@netscape.net. .  To locate a Council in your area visit the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council .

Forth Degree

Any Third Degree member in good standing, one year after the anniversary of his First Degree, is eligible for membership in the Fourth Degree. The primary purpose of the Fourth Degree is to foster the spirit of patriotism by promoting responsible citizenship and a love of and loyalty to the Knights' respective countries through active membership in local Fourth Degree groups (called "assemblies"). Certain members of the Fourth Degree serve as honor guards at civic and religious functions, an activity that has brought worldwide recognition to the Knights of Columbus.

The Ladies Auxiliary

No council can be completely successful without the support of the ladies.  This program provides the ladies with a vehicle where they can meet, socialize and run programs in support of the council's mission.  The ladies can tailor individual programs that relate to their interests and provide their talents to enhance other family and council activities.

The Columbian Squires

Under the guidance of Christian Brother Barnabas McDonald (1865-1929), the first Columbian Squires circle was instituted in 1925. Membership in the Squires is for Catholic boys between the ages of 10 and 18. Squires' activities are many, varying from spiritual to active service for the Church and community. Each circle elects officer members from their own rank, teaching skills of leadership and responsibility.