Worthy Brother Knights and Families:

As we glance at September in our rear-view mirrors, we are reminded of the lessons the Holy Father instilled in us from his recent trip to the United States. He preached love, hope, mercy and forgiveness. He also canonized Fr. Junipero Serra, the founder of the California Missions, which comes at a time that we Christians find ourselves in the culture war of political correctness. Why do I raise this issue? As I authored the brief history pamphlet for the 4th Degree, entitled: Bishop Manogue Assembly 50 – A Brief History, for their Centennial Dinner, I discovered that Assembly 50 participated in a Columbus Day Celebration in 1944 at our State Capitol. The celebration included placing a wreath at the foot of the statue of Isabella and Christopher Columbus. Today, remembrances of Christopher Columbus are all but blips on a calendar noted as “Discoverers’ Day.” While we recognize the unfortunate conflict that indigenous people experienced with European settlers, we must also remember the positive aspects that Christians brought to this great nation.

It logically follows that the Holy Father’s canonization of Fr. Serra is incredibly significant in these days of divided communities. Fr. Serra is an example of the power of love and Christian virtue during uncertain times. He was the one who implanted the Gospel of Jesus Christ in California, and like Columbus, brought Christianity to the “New World.” For their courage and faith, we are forever thankful. Likewise, as “Knights of Columbus,” it is our duty to continue our Christian traditions as Catholic gentlemen in our communities and with our families.

So my Brothers, let us take some time to reflect, pray and count our blessings that courage and faith brought Jesus Christ to our shores by these important historical figures. Columbus Day is on October 12, 2015. He was more than a “discoverer,” whose travels to the “New World” forever impacted this nation by the very fact that Christianity continues to dwell and live in us and among us.

Lewis Munoz
Grand Knight, Council 953