It was eleven years ago and in the Summer of 2003 that the State Deputy and many state officers joined the council for their monthly meeting.  It was a time when few council members wanted to assume the office of Grand Knight.

Council members sat on one side of the the room as State Commander David O’nofrio sat at the Grand Knight’s chair and reminded the council of its history, contributions to the state, and potential.  We had hosted many events, hosted a state mid-year meeting, and co-hosted a State Convention.  He reminded us of what we have done during our ten year council life. He then asked the question, “Will no sir knight stand up to take the leadership role of the council as Grand Knight?”

The council chamber was still.  This writer remembered well the thought of the bible verse,

• Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”

Isaiah 6:9

Many of the seasoned officers and past grand knights watched and listened for an answer from the members, yet the room remained still.  They knew that the solution must come from the members or junior officers.  If our council was to survive, we needed council participation.

It was now a question of our faith.  Our faith as Catholic gentlemen.  “Whom do we serve?  Is that not why we are Knights of Columbus?”  We are building church and serving our local priests and parish families.  If we did not continue our mission, what would be the impact on the parish and the community?

Then it happened.  A chair moved and one sir knight stood up and raised his voice.  He said that he knew little about leading a council, but with the help of other knights and past grand knights, he would give it a try. He would served as Council 10910 Grand Knight.  The voice was that of  Bill Jackson.

All in the chamber looked at him.  The State Deputy looked back at him standing there alone.  One solitary Sir Knight readied himself for the challenge.  Soon, other voices of support were heard.  “I’ll help you,” said one past grand knight.  Then another voice, and another.  The still room became alive with enthusiastic support and offers of help.

A lesson taught to all became our battle banner.  Many threads make a cord, many cords make a rope. There is strength in unity and sharing the load.  Together we are strong and all things are possible.

Thus began ten years of expansive council life.  Those then years are chronicled here on this web site.  You can read about them and reflect on the thousands of volunteer hours of knights before you who have built our council.  We have so much to be thankful for, to be proud of, and to pass on to the men of our church and parish.

We are once again at a cross roads.  Our council has many men with great talent and much to offer.  We ask that you reflect in prayer as knights of old.  Listen quietly and answer, “Here am I. Send me!”  You will not be alone.  He will guide you and give you strength.