Local Knights of Columbus celebrate 100 years

In 1904, a group of Catholic men united to form Father Hamill Council 867, Knights of Columbus, in memory of the pioneer priest known for being a strong spiritual leader for Catholics in the Marshall area.

On Saturday, July 17, Hamill will be remembered as local Knights of Columbus members join to celebrate the council's 100th anniversary.

Beginning at 10 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Marshall, the 246 active members and their families are invited to an open house, which will last until 1:30 p.m. Then they will travel to Hamill's grave at St. Mary's Cemetery in Shackelford for prayer. Another highlight of the celebration will be a 3 p.m. dedication of a memorial to the unborn outside St. Peter Catholic Church in Marshall.

Grand Knight Pat Kennedy, who has been a council member for 20 years, said since Knights of Columbus is a fraternal benefit society, its members strive to provide financial support for youth and community organizations. However, he said the group also seeks to share Biblical truths taught by Jesus throughout his ministry.

"The brick grotto with Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus is a sign it's not a choice, it's a life," Kennedy said, sharing the church's pro-life stance.

Another message the Knights of Columbus have been sharing in communities throughout the years is that there should be fellowship among members and their families, as well as other saints.

One way the men show their pride in the efforts of the council is by inviting other men to join them in membership. Examples of this are 45-year-member Donald Arth of Grand Pass, and his brothers, Gary Arth of Marshall, who is a 14-year member, and Mike Arth of Grand Pass, who is a 23-year member. The Knights are also proud to have members such as Clarence Barr of Marshall, who joined the council 60 years ago. He said he is glad to be able to continue some of the traditions of the council that his father used to be responsible for as a member and, at 82 years of age, being part of the centennial celebration is also a milestone.

To commemorate the fellowship among the Knights during the celebration Saturday, members will meet for a 4 p.m. Mass and, from 5 to 6, they will have a social at the council hall. A banquet and program will follow, with State Deputy Ron Wood making a brief presentation and awards being given to the Knight of the Year, Family of the Year. A new award, in memory of the late Marion Marcum, who was a past state secretary, will also be presented at that time.

Contact Naomi Campbell at

marshallfaith@socket.net