By Christian Towalski
Since 1882, the Knights of Columbus have provided Catholic men across the world the opportunity to give back to their communities while deepening their bond with the Church, their faith and each other. Through a network of local councils, the fraternal organization helps raise money for charity, provides critical services to those in their community and even helps its members navigate the financial challenges of the modern world.
“Throughout my time in the diocese, I have witnessed firsthand the hospitality, generosity and strong spirit of our local Knights councils,” Bishop Patrick Neary said in a recent letter of support. “I have shared meals and conversations with members, and I have been inspired by their camaraderie and their commitment to helping one another become better men, better husbands and better fathers. Their example strengthens my own vocation as a priest and bishop.”
The Knights of Columbus councils in the Diocese of St. Cloud serve their communities and parishes in many ways, from food drives and raising funds for Special Olympics to helping veterans in wheelchairs get to Mass at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center, leading daily rosaries and cleaning ditches.
“As a Knight, I can participate personally and through our council as a team in various initiatives to make our parish and community stronger,” said Bob Rueter, who serves as Grand Knight for Council No. 961 in St. Cloud.
“I feel stronger in my faith because the Knights surrounds me with men of faith and dedication,” he added.
Few people have as deep and personal a connection to the organization as St. Cloud native David Mohs. Larry Mohs, David’s father, was a devoted and enthusiastic member of the order who, through his decades-long tenure, was involved with dozens of the organization’s initiatives, programs and activities — and he wasn’t shy about involving his family.
“My mom always had a story,” David said. “When it came time to get engaged, apparently he gave her a warning — if you’re marrying me, you’re marrying all the activities I’m involved in through the Knights of Columbus.”
Growing up, David was always helping his father with his work. When he was as young as nine or 10, he had a unique insight into the inner workings of the organization. “I remember being on the west end of town in someone’s house and they were having a discussion about all the donations they wanted to give,” David remembers, “They raised these funds, and they had to figure out which charities were going to receive the money. I remember those meetings.”
As he got older, David started taking a more active role in the organization — volunteering for everything from their Adopt a Highway cleanup to the annual Tootsie Roll campaign, which raises awareness of those living with mental disabilities. The experience not only allowed him to strengthen his connection with the Catholic faith but also connect on a deeper level with his father, who often worked alongside him at formal events and fundraisers.
One event that holds particular meaning to the Mohs family is the annual Memorial Day outdoor Mass and reception at Assumption Cemetery.
“My dad was always big on making sure he always went to the Memorial Day Mass. Part of that may have been that his own brother died in Korea,” David remembered.
Larry Mohs passed away on Nov. 8, 2024, but left behind a lasting legacy of unwavering faith, service, and genuine care for not only his community and his Church, but also his fellow Knights.
“He loved volunteering,” said David. “The fraternity of the people he was with, he enjoyed working with that group of people — so he was all-in involved.”
Today, The Knights of Columbus continue to provide Catholic men of all ages the opportunity to have the same experiences as David and his father. Through their network of local councils, all reporting to the organization’s headquarters in New Haven, Connecticut, the order continues to support worthy causes, raise money for charities and contribute to an evolving landscape of both domestic and international service — with a current emphasis on helping victims of the ongoing unrest in Ukraine and the middle east.
“For more than 140 years, the Knights of Columbus has fostered hope and charity by serving those in need, strengthening families and supporting parish life,” Bishop Neary said. “They stand as defenders of human life and dignity, protectors of religious liberty and promoters of priestly and religious vocations.”
In addition to offering opportunities for service, the order also looks after its own. The Knights of Columbus provides its members with financial assistance through undergraduate scholarship programs, Catholic investment tools and a comprehensive insurance program.
Catholic men interested in Knights of Columbus membership are encouraged to reach out to their local council or inquire about membership online at kofc.org.