About Us
Our Council
Knights of Columbus Council 16561 was founded in October 2016 in the young and vibrant parish of Saint John XXIII located in Canal Winchester, OH. As of July 2022, we are roughly 70 members strong and growing. The council was named after the our parish’s patron saint, Saint Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, also known as Pope John XXIII. Saint John XXIII is known and recognized as the Pope who spearheaded the Second Vatican Council from 1962 until its conclusion in 1965. He was head of the Catholic Church from October 28, 1958 until his death in 1963. He his credited with transforming the Catholic church and reemphasizing her pastoral role in the world. John XXIII today is affectionately known as the “Good Pope”.
Pope John XXIII
St. Angelo Giuseppe Roncolli
1958–1963
Papal Armorial of
Pope John XXIII
Our Founding
OUR FOUNDING
1882-1899
The Knights of Columbus is founded by Father Michael J. McGivney on Feb. 6, 1882 with a mission of charity.
FLEDGLING TO THRIVING
1900-1909
The fledgling Order grows dramatically at the beginning of the 20th century to serve communities beyond the United States.
EVERYBODY WELCOME
1910-1918
During the Great War, Knights of Columbus Huts provide services under the motto "Everybody Welcome, Everything Free" - a philosophy upheld in today's charitable programs.
Charity and Outreach
IN SEARCH OF LIBERTY
1919-1929
The Order spearheads anti-defamation work in the U.S. and takes a stands for religious freedom in Mexico.
HELPING NEIGHBORS
1930-1940
The Great Depression leads to a renewed sense of volunteer service - and Knights across the nation step up.
WAR & PEACE
1941-1950
Following the end of World War II, the Order turns its attention to the growing threats of communism and fascism, which threaten communities and religious freedoms.
"ONE NATION UNDER GOD"
1951-1960
In 1954, the words "under God" are added to the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance completing an effort the Knights began three years earlier.
Reaching New Heights
A TRANSFORMED CHURCH
1961-1978
The Order embraces the challenge of authentic ecclesial reform, while remaining faithful to timeless truths and traditional values.
ONE CHRISTIAN FAMILY
1979-1999
During John Paul II's pontificate, the Knights strengthens ties to the Church through increased support of the Vatican.
THE NEW MILLENNIUM
2000-2009
The Order builds upon its tradition of charitable work and spiritual formation.
PROTECTING CHRISTIANS
2010-2019
Iraqi Christians are displaced by ISIS and take refuge. The Knights build a program to support displaced Christians in the Middle East including food and health care.
Today and Tomorrow
Help Write Our Next Chapter
You are a key part in bringing a culture of faith to life in your home, council, community or parish. Let the Knights help you.
We are men who lead, serve, protect and defend, whether we are giving out Coats for Kids, lending a hand in disaster relief efforts, supporting local pregnancy centers by donating ultrasound machines or providing top-quality financial products. Find out more about what we do.
