Not too impressed with the Knights of Columbus

[Graceful_Lamb]

That’s just what “fraternal organization” means; Freemasons in the U.S. are the same way.

The Freemasons I know do not get drunk. They do drink but not to excess. I cannot speak for the Knights of Columbus, since I haven’t talked to the only Knight I know in years.

I would be careful in lumping everyone in any organization as exhibiting a certain behavior.

 

[freshwind]

I am sorry to hear of the negative experiences with the Knights.
I can honestly say I have never seen any of this type of behaviour at our Council and I have known many of these people since the 80’s.

These men are dedicated to serving Church and community, I am humbled by their fidelity to the Church.

I am impressed greatly by our meetings and our get togethers, whether they are social or activity based.

Our Pastor and Chaplain is very involved and supportive, but that has not always been the case with previous Pastors as much.

I would suggest maybe checking out a different Council if possible, and if not start the change from within, maybe your Pastor can help as suggested earlier?

Good luck

 

[Exiled_Child]

The Freemasons I know do not get drunk. They do drink but not to excess. I cannot speak for the Knights of Columbus, since I haven’t talked to the only Knight I know in years.

I would be careful in lumping everyone in any organization as exhibiting a certain behavior.

All I can do is relate my experience. Every Mason I’ve known, without even a single exception, has been a big drinker. That isn’t a secret, either, by any means. As far as KoC are concerned, I think it just depends where you live. I hope I’ve been clear, by the way, that I’ve never even been a member of either organization - I was only replying to Dietrich that the Knights he knows sound identical to the Knights I know. Anyway, they do good works and I wasn’t putting them down; I just don’t think it’s for everyone. I also know a recovering alcoholic who told me he couldn’t handle attending council meetings because of all the alcohol. Although he might have just been nervous about being at a meeting with any alcohol; I don’t think he complained that it was excessive, just that it was there.

 

[CradleJourney]

pound for pound, the non-religious group is far more chaste in speech, serious in comportment, and mature in general.

I have volunteered with and participated in many groups - both religious and non-religious, both inside our parish and outside of it.

I have consistently run into exactly what you are describing - the members I’ve encountered in the Catholic groups as a whole have much more drinking, offensive speech, and problem behavior. These are groups consisting of both males and females or females only.

So I would think it may be more than just “the guys” in one area - but the community as a whole and their views on what is/isn’t acceptable.

 

[redbaron162]

I am happy to say I have never had a negative experience with the Knights. I joined last month although I have seen them around for years. They are very hard working and do a lot for the parish. They usually have beers available during some meetings, but I don’t think I have seen anyone drink more than one, and certainly no one get drunk.

I joined in order to meet more Catholic men, being a convert myself most of my family and friends are protestant if Christian at all. I have found exactly what I was looking for, a group of hard working devout men who have been an inspiration to me.

 

[pianistclare]

I am happy to say I have never had a negative experience with the Knights. I joined last month although I have seen them around for years. They are very hard working and do a lot for the parish. They usually have beers available during some meetings, but I don’t think I have seen anyone drink more than one, and certainly no one get drunk.

I joined in order to meet more Catholic men, being a convert myself most of my family and friends are protestant if Christian at all. I have found exactly what I was looking for, a group of hard working devout men who have been an inspiration to me.

Thanks for posting this.
There are many true, and devout Catholics in the Knights of Columbus working hard for their parishes and people of other faiths as well, in charity.

And again, I’d like to repeat: ***“be the change you’d like to see”. ***

 

[Hoosier_Daddy]

I had no idea that K of C members had an image of heavy drinkers.

They don’t. Perhaps though the drinking image would be better for them. I will never join the knights. I have been thoroughly disgusted by how they are represented and sold around these parts…

 

[7_Sorrows]

They don’t. Perhaps though the drinking image would be better for them. I will never join the knights. I have been thoroughly disgusted by how they are represented and sold around these parts…

really? I am a convert so the years I have been Catholic I have seen them as a very solemn group at funerals or certain events at church. They raise money with a yearly raffle, burrito sales and pancake breakfasts. How are they represented and “sold” (a curious word to use) in your area?

 

[gamewell45]

All I can do is relate my experience. Every Mason I’ve known, without even a single exception, has been a big drinker. That isn’t a secret, either, by any means. As far as KoC are concerned, I think it just depends where you live. I hope I’ve been clear, by the way, that I’ve never even been a member of either organization - I was only replying to Dietrich that the Knights he knows sound identical to the Knights I know. Anyway, they do good works and I wasn’t putting them down; I just don’t think it’s for everyone. I also know a recovering alcoholic who told me he couldn’t handle attending council meetings because of all the alcohol. Although he might have just been nervous about being at a meeting with any alcohol; I don’t think he complained that it was excessive, just that it was there.

I cannot speak for the Knights of Columbus, but as a Freemason, I can tell you that from my experience the Brothers I know are not big drinkers. Additionally, most lodges in my jurisdiction are “dry” lodges; that is no alcohol is served in lodge buildings. Most of us only drink coffee and/or tea which is usually served either before or after our lodge meetings.