KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS
St. Patrick's Basilica Ottawa Council 485
OUR VALUES
The Knights’ legacy began in 1882, inspired by the vision of our founder, Fr. McGivney, who sought to empower Catholic men to live their faith at home, in their parish, at work, and within their community. Today, we stand strong with over 2.1 million members worldwide, all united by our core values of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism:
CHARITY
Knights are men of faith and followers of Christ. As St. James teaches, “faith without works is dead.” Thus, as Knights, we are dedicated to charity, striving to alleviate the suffering of those in need.
UNITY
In unity, there is strength. Founded in a time when Catholics faced open hostility, the Order’s founders drew on this unity to stay true to their Faith and assert their rightful place in society.
FRATERNITY
In 19th-century America, many poor Catholics couldn’t afford life insurance, and social services were unavailable. The Knights of Columbus allowed men to unite, supporting each other ..
MISSION
We are devoted to the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism, while firmly defending the priesthood. Consecrated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, we are committed to protecting human life from conception to natural death and upholding the sanctity of the family.
HISTORY
The Knights of Columbus was established by the Venerable Father Michael J. McGivney, an Irish-American Catholic priest, in New Haven, Connecticut. On October 2, 1881, he gathered men from St. Mary’s parish for an organizational meeting and the Order was officially incorporated on March 29, 1882, under Connecticut law.
COUNCIL 485
The current Council 485 results from the merger of the original Council 485, founded in the 1900s, and Council 12158, chartered in 1998. In May 2021, a vote finalized the merger of these two councils. Both have strong ties to St. Patrick Basilica, with Ottawa Council 485 being the first in Ontario, receiving its charter in 1900
HOW TO JOIN
Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to practicing Catholic men, 18 and older, in union with the Holy See. Apply by filling and submitting the form below.
COUNCIL NEWS
Council 485 125th Anniversary Dinner
On January 25, the same day as Robbie Burns Day, the members of Council #485…
Another Upgrade for the Blessed Michael J. McGivney Honoris
The Blessed Michael J. McGivney Honoris at St Patrick Basilica in Ottawa underwent another upgrade…
Membership Drive at St. Basil’s Parish Roundtable
Three days before Christmas, our State Deputy, Bruce S. Poulin, and Membership Director, Dem Magmanlac,…
Council 485 Blessing of the Creche
Council 485 held its annual blessing of the Crèche in front of St. Patrick’s Basilica…