Winners of Our KofC Essay Contest

The Knights of Columbus sponsors the Catholic Citizenship Essay Contest to encourage today’s youth to be more connected to their community and their faith. The goal of this program is to involve young Catholics in 8th Grade from St. John Fisher in civic discourse and instill in them religious and life-affirming values. The essays are approximately 500-750 words.  Essays are judged on grammar, style, and how clearly they present the theme – which should showcase creativity, imagination and overall development of the topic. This year's topic was:

Discuss how trusting in God during a difficult time has helped you or someone you know find the strength and hope to endure it. Consider especially those times when it was a challenge to understand why something was happening. Consider also sharing any lessons about faith and hope you or someone you know may have learned from this experience.

1st Prize ($100)

Ruby Day

2nd Prize ($50)

Brooke Sheridan

3rd Prize ($20)

Noah Carlsson

LINK to Winning Essays

A Thousand Rosaries

From our State Faith Director Brother Ray Prom:

A Thousand Rosaries

     Brothers, January 1 is the Feast of Mary, Mother of God. If you are like me, you are ready to put the old year behind you and start the new. What better way to start than to shower our Blessed Mother of God with roses (rosaries)? I would like every council in Oregon to pray the rosary for an end to the pandemic. Begin praying the rosary at noon on New Year’s Day. You don’t all have to gather in the same place. Each can pray from their own homes. Scriptures tell us that Jesus could not refuse his mother. And Mary will

not refuse her adopted children.

     This activity can also be reported on line 5 in the Faith reporting form for 200 points. Start the New Year off right with a rosary prayer to end the pandemic.

Oregon March for Life

 

Oregon March for Life

when? 

JAN 23RD // 2:15PM

where?

OREGON STATE CAPITOL 

SALEM OREGON

 As Knights of Columbus, we are encouraged to show public support for the right to life. The “March for Life” program is a featured program (counts 2 toward the Columbian award) under the Faith in Action - Life Programs. The Oregon March for Life is an opportunity for us to show support and we could fill some requirement for the Columbian Award. Follow the link for more information regarding the event.

Cathy and I have participated in past years.  We usually arrive early and find parking on the street near the capitol.  Participants gather in front of the capitol building, near the steps, for speeches—Archbishop Sample is a featured speaker this year—and then march on streets around the capitol area. The march last about a half hour.  It is over by 4:00.

Please consider participating on January 23^rd 2021.

 

Council 15485 Teleconference Meeting Notes from 12/15/2020

James M. Morgan / Recorder

7 pm  Call to Order

• Warden's Membership check waived
• Opening Prayer - Our Father
• Pledge of Allegiance
• Roll of Officers waived
• Reading of the last meeting was approved

7:05 pm GK's Remarks (Marc Gregoire)

• Marc and his wife Guadalupe celebrated Our Lady of Guadalupe on 12/12, 2020
• Ted Seeber joined the Men's Holy League at St. Josephs on 12/5/2020; the year 2021 will be commemorated to St. Joseph
• Project Rescue Christmas is a part of the Salvation Army programs: go to the blog to learn more about how they can use your help.  We are still calling for RESOLUTIONFOR THE 2021 STATE CONVENTION
• We have implemented some new guidelines for how to conduct council meetings; and more changes are on the way
• Forms will be due in January 2021

7:10 pm For the Good of the Order (Mike O'Phelan)

• We were advised to accept Christ and to accept ourselves in our everyday life
• To remember that Emmanuel is with us 
• And to look for the presence of Christ's ministry in our every day life
• God needs us and we truly need God

7:20 pm  Treasurer's Report (Mike Devlin)

       Checking account  $1,377.69 (interest ($ 0.02); Savings $543.51; Charity account $5.67 

7:25 pm Financial Secretaries Report (Phil Jarvis)

• There hasn't been any change in membership
• We are working on  a way to tie 2021 membership dues up with our annual survey of Charitable Work
• 7:30 pm Committees / Program Director (Gene Andres) Form 17-28 due in January; and on 1/23/2021 there will be a March for Life in Salem (see blog).   

PARISH / SCHOOLS UPDATES Committees Continued

• St. Clare (Ted Seeber & Mike O'Phalan) : There won't be any Baby Bottles released this year; maybe in the months of Jan. or Feb. next year.  
• St. Elizabeth of Hungary (Marc Gregoire) No change from last month; minimum Mass size and no church functions
• St. John Fisher ( Gene Andres and Mike Devlin ) Father Richardson has been quaranteed so the Mass schedules have changed: check with the parish for more reliable information.

7:45 pm The inners of the Essay Contest were reported  (Ted Seeber and Marc Gregoire)

• Ruby Day won the essay, Brook Sheridan was second and Noah Carlssen was third.
• No one competed from St. Clare; more information is available on the blog
• Marc Gregoire discussed Sid Thiel's Council survey
• James M. Morgan covered the No Neighbor Left Behind work. 
• Faith Director Don Mey excused
• Community Director Michael Chau didn't report anything new
• Life Director Ted Seeber spoke more about the Salem March for Life: See more on the blog.
• Family Director and Membership Director Ted Seeber didn't report anything new.
• Retention Chairman Mike O'Phelan addressed the problem with many men: "Don't have time." 

8 pm   New Business

• Phil Jarvis discussed the Charitable Green Sheet charitable concept that the Supreme wants us to use for making donations; more about that on the blog later.  St. Vincent de Paul might need our help moving some refrigerators and/or freezers around in January 2021.  And we kicked around the idea of offering a Parishioner's Award for their contributions to the church
• State Leadership is looking for some men who might want to become State Officers
• State will waive dues in 2021 for members experiencing Covid-19 related problems. 

PRAYERS SICK OR IN DISTRESS

• Ted Seeber's cousin, Christine
• Marc Gregoire's associate whose mother died recently
• All Front line workers and especially those in the medical profession.

Closing prayers by GK Marc Gregoire

• God bless the work of the council and its members and grant eternal peace to the souls of departed members
• Hail Mary
• Father Michael J. McGivney Prayer

Council Meeting Tues December 15th 7pm (Online Tomorrow)

 Hello Brother Knights,

Please join us this Tuesday, December 15th at 7pm for our next online Council #15485 meeting.

Here is the AGENDA to download. 

Marc will open the chat room at 6:50pm. Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or phone.

MEETING LINK

You can also dial in using your phone if needed.

United States: 646-749-3122

Access Code: 372-718-853

One-touch: tel:+16467493122,,372718853# 

'Tis the season for surveys

 At our meeting on Tuesday, we can expect to hear from our GK and FS about the annual survey of charitable work, which is used to advertise the order and maintain our 501c(8) tax status.  It is extremely important for every Knight to fill this out, and we'll be getting the forms soon.

But in addition, during this strange year of 2020, our State Council is looking for outside the box thinking and ideas towards improving the Knights.  The Survey can be found at this link (click through to the blog to see it), and State Secretary Sid Thiel will be grateful for a few minutes of your time.  Took me less than 5 minutes to fill it out.

Project Rescue Christmas

Brother Knights,

As many nonprofit organizations during this challenging time – the Salvation Army is needing additional help to provide whatever support and hope they can to so many displaced or vulnerable families. And this is especially true for our precious children who may have to go without this Christmas.

Here is the LINK where you can check out all the volunteer opportunities open to you for the “Rescue Christmas” campaign.

Please contact Jason Ramos (503-798-4876 / jason.ramos@usw.salvationarmy.org) with the Salvation Army if you have any questions about this wonderful service for others and he will provide any information, assistance and support he can. 

New year, New You?

 Please read the letter from State Deputy Ron Boyce below on an opportunity to advance to the Patriotic  Degree of our order online.

--------------------------------

Brothers,

 

With this being a crazy Fraternal Year, I thought it would be great to start the 2021 year off with an Exemplification of Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism at the Oregon State Mid-Year Meeting in Coos Bay at the Red Lion Hotel on January 9th 2021 in-person and/or virtually. The new Exemplification will be at 4pm, and the 4th Degree Exemplification will follow at 4:30pm. 

 

More information can be found on the attached flyer. Candidates must register for both Exemplifications. The Exemplification of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity is free. 

 

The 4th Degree Exemplification has a cost of $50 to cover the cost of the Social Baldric and Pin and fee paid to Supreme. Candidates for the 4th Degree must register by Monday, January 4th 2021 and have the required form 4. 

 

I would like to ask all councils to promote this opportunity for new Members and those who need the other degrees. 

 

Vivat Jesus,

 

Ron Boyce

Knights of Columbus

Oregon State Deputy

PO Box 23093

Tigard, OR 97281

Cell #503-730-1986

 -----------------------------

An e-mail inquiry to our membership chairman, Ted Seeber, seebert42@gmail.com , to get the flyer for this Coos Bay area live exemplification that will also be livestreamed online. 

Wishing All a Happy Thanksgiving

 

“In everything give thanks.” -1 Thessalonians 5:18

Happy Thanksgiving!

This year, for many of us, Thanksgiving looks different. Our gatherings might be smaller and our traditions might be modified, but in spite of all this — hope rings as we move forward together.

Wishing everyone a relaxing, peaceful day connecting in some way with the people you love.

Announcement for Religious Freedom Rally & Prayer Service

Brother Knights,

Religious Freedom Rally (In-Person)
At this LINK you open the attachment about the Religious Freedom Rally happening Saturday November 28th, 2020 in Salem (Oregon State Capitol - 900 Court St. NE, Salem OR 97301) at 1:30pm that was sent out by Stephen J. Radel (Knights of Columbus Oregon Executive Secretary).

Religious Freedom Prayer Service (Virtual)

Wednesday December 2nd @7pm

Zoom Meeting LINK

Meeting ID: 835 1055 2443

Passcode: q96ir5

Blessed Fr. Michael J. McGivney

Brother Knights,

In his 13 years of ministry, Fr. Michael J. McGivney served in two Connecticut parishes and a mission church, all within 25 miles of his birthplace. Now, 130 years after his death, he is known and venerated throughout the world. Knights of Columbus, their families and Catholics from nearly every continent recognize in him a holy example of faith and the universal principles that he taught — charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. They honor his memory, ask for his intercession and pray that now-Blessed Michael McGivney will soon be canonized what they believe him to be — a saint.

Here is a new documentary (30 minutes) which explores the life, legacy and impact of Fr. Michael J. McGivney, the founder of the Knights of Columbus and apostle of spiritual brotherhood and unity.

LINK

Here is another video (2 minutes) on the impact of Fr. McGivney had on a brother Knight. Chief Onunaku from Nigeria is a passionate brother Knight and a testament to the worldwide impact of Father McGivney's life and legacy.

LINK

Columbia Special Issue: Blessed Michael McGivney 

The November 2020 issue of Columbia honors the life and legacy of our founder, Blessed Michael McGivney. It features an updated design and includes the story of the miraculous healing attributed to Father McGivney’s intercession, which paved the way for his beatification on Oct. 31. This commemorative issue can be read and easily shared ONLINE. Invite your friends, neighbors and prospective members to read about the Order’s founder — and America’s newest Blessed.

f

                    Knights of Columbus Council 15485 - Virtual Meeting Minutes 11/17/2020

Council Recorder: James M. Morgan 503.320.1510

7 pm  Call to Order

• Warden's Membership Check was waived
• Prayer : Our Father 
• Pledge of Allegiance
• Roll call of officers waived
• Our previous meeting minutes were approved

7:05 pm  The Grand Knight, Marc Gregoire, made comments

• He explained that he had contacted a gall bladder infection and had to be hospitalized for 4 days, and then had to recuperate at home.
• He discussed Father J. McGivney's Beatification on 10/31/2020
• He thanked all veteran's for their service to the USA
• And he asked us to think about resolutions that could be offered at the 2021 State Convention
• He informed us that there would be a Men's Holy League at St. Josephs Parish on 12/5/2020
• We discussed the Fraternal Benefits Night 
• In conclusion he advised us to watch our blog for all kinds of new information forthcoming
• He pointed out that we had no forms due until 2021

7:10 pm     For the Good of the Order  - Mike O'Phelen spoke 

• He pointed out that as Thanksgiving approached, we should be thankful for our lives
• That we were a eucharistic people who worked to advance Christianity
• and he asked us to let Jesus Christ guide us through the Holy Spirit

7:20 pm  Treasurer's Report --- Mike Devlin

1. Beginning checking balance $ 1,483.69
2. Check issued to Our Lady of Peace Retreat $100.06
3. End checking balance $1, 377.69
4. Savings balance $543.49
5. Charity Savings balance $5.67

7:25pm  Financial Secretary's Report --- Phil Jarvis

• The council welcomed Dan Riecher who became a 3rd K of C installation kits

7:30 pm  Committees Report

• Program Director  --- Gene Andres
• St. John Fisher has a Eucharistic Admiration & Rosary 1st Tuesday 7 pm
• St. Clare has the same type  service on the  1st Saturday from 2 to 4 pm 

       Parish & School Updates

1. St. Clare Parish - Ted Seeber & Mike O'Phelen  discussed State Freeze on Mass
2. St. Elizabeth of Hungary -- Marc Gregoire noted elder parishioners were seated first
3. St. John Fisher -- Gene Andres/ Mike Devlin Fr. Richardson added masses to help parishioners

        Faith Director ---  Don Mey  discussed adoration for Lenora Lewis

        Community Director --- Michael Chau  Nothing from Community at this time

        Life Director --- Ted Seeber ... He will pick up baby bottles this week for donation collections

        Family Director --- Ted Seeber ... Nothing to report at this time

        Membership Director --- Ted Seeber ... Thank you Dan and Erik Riecher for becoming members

        Retention Chairman --- Mike O'Phelen   ... Excused from meeting.

7:45 pm   K of C Business

• No neighbor left behind recorded no complaints
• James M. Morgan reported limited activity & promised to contact everyone this week.
• Advertising / Gene Andres did not have anything to report
• Ted Seeber's winning of the Star Council Award was discussed; Eill drop further award activity
• Marc Gregoire reported 24 St. John Fisher students will participate in the Essay contest.
• We skipped over further discussion of the Our Lady of Peace Retreat House

8 pm  New Business

• No fund raising conversation
• The State Survey is being re-written by the State, Sid will release it soon
• We will have a December meeting
• No dues will be raised in 2021 for unemployed K of C members or members in distress
• We discussed how well the St. Vincent de Paul volunteers collected and distributed food.

• District Deputy Dan Boone was excused from the meeting

8:15 pm   Sick or in Distress ---  We prayed for:

1. Doctors, Nurses and Technicians fighting the covid - 19 Pandemic
2. Mary Bunday who has to have a shoulder surgery in December
3. Ken Paulson who was ill recently

8:20 pm  Closing Prayer

        God bless the work of the council and its members and grant eternal peace to the souls of departed members.

        We pray for the canonization of Father Michael J. McGivney

Holy League Men's Conference Online Edition

Less time, Lower cost, Less Travel!  Yes, the Holy League Men's Conference is going online, Walking With St Joseph, 8am-5pm, streaming online.  $40 registration down from $60.  Click on link as above to register.

Council Meeting Tues November 17th 7pm (Online)

Hello Brother Knights,

Please join us this Tuesday, November 17th at 7pm for our next online Council #15485 meeting.

Here is the AGENDA to download along with our closing prayer. 

Marc will open the chat room at 6:50pm. Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or phone.

MEETING LINK

You can also dial in using your phone if needed.

United States: 646-749-3122

Access Code: 372-718-853

One-touch: tel:+16467493122,,372718853# 

Veterans Day

On Veterans Day today, we are privileged to honor and give thanks to men and women in uniform, past and present, across the globe.  

A sincere thank you to all Veterans who have served and who continue to serve. Those who live in freedom will always be grateful to those who helped preserve it. Today we thank you, we salute you, and honor you!

Men Holy League @ St. Joseph December 5th, 2020

I have signed up for the 5th Annual Holy League Catholic Men's Conference, have you?

This is a great opportunity to listen to Fr. Don Calloway's incredible journey to the priesthood, Bear Wozniak a World Champion Surfer, adventurer, and seeker of god, Fr. Stephen Kenyon who was sponsored by a number of Oregon Councils through the RSVP program while attending at Mt. Angel Seminary, and Fr. Eric Anderson from St. Stephens who is bring back the traditional mass as well as an incredible homilies.

Attached you will see the FLYER with the registering location. Get your tickets now before they are all taken for this great event.

Vivat Jesus,
 
Ron Boyce
Knights of Columbus
Oregon State Deputy

Call for Resolutions for State Convention 2021

Brother Knights,

It is time to start thinking and formulating resolutions for discussion and/or enactment at the 2021

State Convention in Klamath Falls, on April 30th to May 2nd , 2021 (Note State By-Laws Article 1,
Sec. 13 & 14).

Resolutions sent from councils need to be signed by either the Grand Knight or Trustee and the
Financial Secretary. The original copy with appropriate signatures and the imprinted Knights of
Columbus Council Seal needs to be sent to the State Advocate by February 28, 2021. Copies of
the original resolution also need sent to both the State Deputy and State Secretary.

A Resolution Committee appointed by the State Deputy in January will review the resolutions in
early March. Copies of the resolutions with the committee’s recommendation will be sent to all
councils approximately 60 days prior to the State Convention. Delegates that will be attending the
State Convention should be knowledgeable of the contents of the resolutions and be ready to
discuss and/or vote the opinion of their council.

If you have questions regarding formation of a resolution, my phone number is 541-974-5716, or
you can reference a copy of the proceedings of previous state conventions.

Fraternally yours,
Thomas F. Radel
Oregon State Advocate

Star Council Awarded to Ted Seeber at St. Clare's

 As you all know, we got Star Council last year.  This is a yearly award for councils that achieve insurance, membership, and charitable program quotas.  Some reasons we got this award include:

• Coats for Kids
  
• RSVP program for Vocations
• Our involvement with Mother and Child Education Center fundraising
• Our involvement with Special Olympics
• 8th Grade Essay Contest
• Our Pro-Life rosaries on 1st Saturday Adoration at St. Clare and 1st Tuesday Adoration at SJF
• Two transfers and a new member last year
• COVID-19 spiritual program last spring

We will be repeating this presentation at a date to be determined at SJF- Gene was ill this week, so we needed to reschedule.  One surprise is that pins came with the award, one for the Past Grand Knight, one for the Program Director (Gene Andres) and one for the Membership Director (Joe Mildenberger).  Thanks are also due to District Deputy Dan Boone, who helped keep us on track.  On the plus side, by rescheduling the SJF presentation, Dan will be able to be there.

Pictures were taken, so here they are.

 

Don't miss the Beatification, live streamed from New Haven

 The link for Beatification tomorrow morning   Click through for a complete schedule.

Star Council Award

Brother Knights,

The Star Council Award will be presented to Ted Seeber at the end of 8:30am Mass at ST. Clare on November 1st.  Mass signups are now open for November 1st.  The LINK is on the main church website.

Congratulations to Past Grand Knight Ted Seeber and all the members of John Clare Council 15485.

Fraternal Benefits Night - Don't Worry Retire Happy

Brother Knights,

You're invited to join a K of C Webinar November 11th at 7pm where Tom Hegna will share his 7 steps to a secure retirement. Register today to reserve your spot.

Tom Hegna (CLU, ChFC, CASL) is an award-winning author, speaker and economist. He is an industry leader and is considered by many as "The Retirement Income Expert." Tom has presented at over 5,000 seminars, helping seniors and baby boomers build lasting retirement plans.

If attending, please notify Marc Grégoire or Gene Andres if possible. As part of our Star Council goal, councils need to attend a benefits night.

K of C Council 15485 MEETING MINUTES 10/20/2020

 7 pm

     

The Grand Knight called THE MEETING TO ORDER

The Warden's Membership Check was waived

The Our Father Prayer was recited to open the meeting

The Pledge of Allegiance was taken by the membership

The Roll Call of officers was waived

The previous Meeting Minutes were approved

7:05 pm

1. The Grand Knight, Marc Gregoire, discussed Father McGivney's Beatification process that willbe on video on 10/31/2020.  He will post information on how to watch that video soon
2. The GK also covered how the past GK, Ted Seeber, won the Star Council Award last year
3. The membership present took the pledge to VOTE IN THE 2020
4. It was noted that we don't have any forms due until January 2021

7:10 pm

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER was skipped because Mike O'Phelan was absent

7:20 pm

THE TREASURER'S REPORT for October 20, 2020 was given by Mike Devlin

Beginning Checking Account balance             $ 2,083.69

Less Warm Springs Donation                                    600.00

10/20/2020 End Checking Acct. Bal.                $ 1,483.69

Savings Account balance:

Unity Savings    $ 543.45 

Charity Savings     $ 5.67             

7:25 pm

THE FINANCIAL REPORT was given by Phil Jarvis

    There was no membership change.  He discussed the possibility of acquiring a Substance Abuse Kit for the school and An Essay Contest Bulletin.

7:30 pm

    COMMITTEES:

• The Program Committee Chair, Gene Andres discussed last years membership drive, and our membership drive plans were discussed.
• Then the Parish/School committees were discussed.  

1. St. Clare Parish,  represented by Ted Seeber & Mike O'Phelan, said the teachers at St. Clare were not interested in the Essay Contest this year. The Star Council Award will be presented to Ted Seeber at the 11/1/2020 8:30 am mass.  We are dropping the Bottle-Drop idea to raise money.  
2. St. Elizabeth of Hungary, represented by Marc Gregoire, said the parish was trying to modernize its technology & phone system with little finances to work with.
3. St. John fisher, represented by Gene Andres and Mike Devlin, reported that there wasn't anything new to report.  They noted on the 1st Tuesday at 7 pm St, John Fisher offered a Holy Hour & Rosary service. 

• The Faith Director Committees' chair Don Mey was Absent.
• The Community Director Michael Chau said there wasn't anything going on because of the Covid-19 virus.
• The Family Director, Ted Seeber, discussed our willingness to contribute to the Mother and Child Bottle Program.
• The Membership Director, Ted Seeber, discussed Daniel Riechers up-coming exemplification.  He is a sophomore at Portland State University.
• The Retention Chairman, Mike O'Phelam was absent.
• The No Neighbor Left Behind Chairman reported that everyone was contacted last month.  Everyone was doing fine except Ken Paulson who reported that he was ill with the flu or Covid-19.

8 pm   NEW BUSINESS

    We discussed some interesting projects like should we purchase wheel chairs for the needy, help fund the Our Lady of Peace Retreat House, etc.

    We reminded our membership that we would waive their dues if the had lost their job in 2020.

8:10 pm

    State Officer, Sid Thiel, reminded us to complete his State Survey and return it to him.

8:15 p.m.  SICK OR IN DISTRESS

    We prayed for Paul Pompili's wife, the doctors' and  nurses working with Covid-19 patients.  

God bless the work of the council and its members and grant eternal peace to the souls of departed members.  The Grand Knight ended our meeting with the Hail Mary prayer. 

     

    

     

Father J. McGivney Beatification

Brother Knights,

October 31: A day that will make K of C history In less than two weeks, Father McGivney will be beatified.

Your prayers and work are making a difference in this historic moment for the Knights of Columbus as we move toward the blessed day of Father J. McGivney’s beatification. Thank you for all you are doing. 

Here are some points to keep in mind going forward:

Prior to the event, join the K of C in praying a novena in his honor, starting this Thursday, Oct. 22. Novena Details You can also sign up to receive an email on each of the nine days of the novena. Email Details

Father McGivney will be beatified on Oct. 31, 2020, at Hartford’s Cathedral of St. Joseph. Due to Connecticut’s current COVID restrictions on indoor gatherings, very few from outside of Connecticut will be able to attend.

Good news is that the Beatification Mass will be broadcast live on EWTN and other Catholic networks. So anyone who wishes to view the Mass will be able to do so.

Encourage all councils to pray the Prayer for the Canonization of Father McGivney. It is very important that all Knights pray this prayer and report any favors received to the Guild. We need one more miracle for our founder to reach canonization and sainthood, so you will play an even more important role in that process.

Here is the K of C video which shares the story of the miracle leading to the beatification of Father McGivney Hear the full story of Mikey Schachle’s miraculous healing, as told by his parents and the family's physician. WATCH

***Everything you need to know and more about the Beatification of Father McGivney can be found online HERE!***

Council Meeting Tues October 20th 7pm (Online)

 Hello Brother Knights,

Please join us this Tuesday, September 15th at 7pm for our next online Council #15485 meeting.

Here is the AGENDA to download along with our closing prayer. 

Marc will open the chat room at 6:50pm. Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or phone.

MEETING LINK

You can also dial in using your phone if needed.

United States: 646-749-3122

Access Code: 372-718-853

One-touch: tel:+16467493122,,372718853# 

Council Sponsored Holy Hour

The Church dedicates each month of the year to a certain devotion. The month of October is dedicated to the holy Rosary.  Our council sponsors a Holy Hour on the 1st Tuesday of each month at St John Fisher church with Eucharistic Adoration and including a pro-life rosary.  Following is an excerpt from today’s bulletin.

 

Please plan to join us on Tuesday evening.

From Silverton KofC Council , Socially Distanced Drive-through Foxtoberfest

 

Or you can click on this link to preorder

Pickup, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday 12-7pm
at Silverton Union high school (Click this second link for a map to 1456 Pine St. Silverton, OR 97381).

Monthly Adoration is returning to St. Clare's

 In the West Transept of the Church, First Saturdays, starting October 3rd.

Schedule:
2pm Exposition
3pm Chaplet of Divine Mercy

3:10pm Rosary, USCCB pro-life mysteries

3:55pm Benediction

Your membership director wants you to know:

 Are you aware of the incentives available this year for proposing new members?  For every Form 100 filed on behalf of you getting somebody to watch the Exemplification online, you get credit for Very Important Proposer prizes.  Click here for more information from Supreme.

K of C Council 15485 September 15, 2020 Meeting Notes

7 pm  Call to Order

• Warden's Membership Check (Waived)
• The Lord's Prayer 
• Pledge of Allegiance to the flag
• Roll call of officers waved

7:05 pm G.K Marc Gregoire Remarks

• Congratulations Polonius Vouche upon graduation from Portland State University
• The GK discussed the gravity presented by the Oregon Wildfires
• Hurricane Laura was discussed: donate at http://K of C.org / Over $!50,000 has been raised
• A Pandemic prayer service is being arranged ... date unknown
• We were alerted to a SCAM being run to get Knights to donate money. Don't donate on line
• A message from the Supreme Knight, Carl A. Anderson, is on the Meeting's Agenda page
• There are no forms due until January 2021     

7:10 pm   For the Good of the Order - Michael O'Phalan

       Michael drew from the teachings of John Muir and the Book of Philippians (Chp. 4 v. 9) to offer guidance for living through our trying times. Underlying theme about God: Your Grace is enough to get us through troubled times. Rejoice in the Lord always.

7:20 p.m.   Treasurer's Report given by Mike Devlin

• Beginning Balance  $ 1,483.19
• Unity Savings $ 543.45
• Charity Savings $ 5.67
• Ending Balance $ 2083.19

7:25 pm  Financial Secretary Report

• Our councils forms for new members have been filed

7:30 pm Committees

• Program Director Gene Andres discussed Parish/School Updates
• Ted Seeber reported that the Citizen Essay Contest rules have been sent to the English teachers and principals at St. Clare Parish and John Fisher Parish.
• Marc Gregoire reported that St. Elizabeth of Hungary started offering regular masses for 50 people at a time
• Gene Andres and Mike Devlin reported that week day masses have changed to 9 am, but weekend mass services haven't change time.  Mike Devlin contacted Faith Development and discussed giving award at the October Confirmation Ceremony at St. John Fisher.

Faith Director Don Mey

•  Discussed future Rosary Meetings and proposed some kind of award for Confirmation Ceremony at St. John Fisher

Community Director Michael Chau

• Reported that there wasn't any community news; partially because of low church turnout
• Ted Seeber said there wasn't anything significant to say about any of his committees:

Life Director

Family Director

Membership Director

Ted Seeber mentioned that St. Anthony Parish would appreciate help to give out food-boxes

Phil Jarvis mentioned the possibility of scrapping our Bottle Drop Program in favor of giving our bottles to St. John fisher

Committee Retention Chairman   Michael O'Phalan said, 'We haven't lost any members'.

Miscellaneous: Phil Jarvis suggested that we streamline the councils rules for releasing monetary funds. We will discuss council fund dispersal at our next meeting.  Voted to release funds immediately to Warm Springs that had been transferred to council checking account last meeting.

8 pm New Business

• A Beatification service for Father McGivney will be held on October 31, 2020
• The 14th Rosary Bowl will be posted on our Blog by the GK
• Plan to suggest fund raising suggestions at our next Council Teleconference
• Should we sponsor "favorite seminarian"?
• The state will wave dues for members displaced by work-loss in 2021

8:10 pm  District Deputy / State Officer Brother Dan Boone was absent

8:15 pm  Sick and In Distress

• Mike Owen's asked for prayers for his wife Bonnie, and her brothers
• Marc Gregoire asked for prayers for his youngest daughter who underwent minor surgery
• James M. Morgan asked for prayers for victims of the Pandemic, their doctors, nurses and caregivers
• God bless the work of the council and its members and grant eternal peace to the souls of departed members

8:20 pm   Closing Prayer

•  A Prayer was given for the canonization of Michael J. McGivney and Sainthood 

   

 

Message from the State Deputy on the Wildfires

Brothers,

We were all worried about COVID-19 then the wildfire hits.  This has been a very tough month for our Brothers, Families, Catholic Communities, and fellow Oregonians. With the current situation of the forest & grass fires destroying homes, businesses, and with at least nine people have died in these wildfires burning in Detroit, Gates, Indaha, Lyons, Mehana, Mill City, Sublimity, Aumsville, Silverton, Mt. Angel, Salem, Diamond Lake, Illinois Valley, Ashland, Phoenix, Talent, Medford, Eagle Point, Glide, Oregon City, Molalla, Colton, Forest Grove, Henry Hagg Lake,  Roy, McKenzie in Springfield/Eugene area, Mapleton, Lincoln City, and Otis.    All councils and members need to be prepared to help our communities in these cities. Please read any of the information coming in from the Executive Secretary Stephen Radel or calls from the State Officers during the next two to four months. I am currently working with the Supreme Office and Territorial Growth Director Bob Kish and they have been extremely helpful in navigating me to help obtain information on how to get help to those areas hit the hardest.  Many thanks to the State Officers Francis Mohr, Sid Thiel, Steve Steele, Tom Radel, Ken Anderson, District Deputies and Grand Knights for their help in finding out how our councils and districts are doing and how many brothers and their families are affected.

 

If you would like to donate to help the members and fellow Oregonians who were displaced and affected by these fires. Please send your checks to Oregon State K of C Charities, c/o State Secretary Sid Thiel, 17180 SW Smith Ave #83, Sherwood, OR 97140.  100% of your charitable contribution will go directly to those affected areas of the wildfires and note that your donation is tax deductible.  Please note on the check that the contribution you are making is for the Oregon wildfire.

 

If you would like to help serve or donate supplies, please send these items to the following locations.  Please contact everyone noted below prior to doing so to coordinate any help you want to provide.

 

Jackson County - Medford K of C Hall, 772 Black Oak Dr., Medford, OR 97504

Contact – Joe Scheacher (District Deputy #9) - 541-282-4208

Marion County – Anthony Hall, 11758 Sublimity Rd. SE, Sublimity, OR 97385

Contact - Ed Deihl (Grand Knight Council #2439) - 503-510-3415

 

Lane County – United Way of Lane County, 3171 Gateway Loop, Springfield, OR 97477

Contact - Thomas Price (Financial Secretary Council #17442) – 541-554-2581

 

Clackamas County - will be announced very soon.

 

Lincoln County - will be announced very soon.

 

These locations need the following items: personal protection equipment’s, gloves, water, food, toiletries, blankets, clothing, sleeping bags, air mattresses or cots, socks, men’s, women's clothing’s any size, undershirts underwear, feminine hygiene supplies, white tank tops (underwear type), coats, and tents (2-man, 4-man or whatever size).

 

We can overcome these obstacles of COVID-19 and Wildfires if we work together and continue to do the work that the Knights of Columbus in Oregon do. Wear the emblem of the order proudly and let us help our communities and show the State of Oregon the Knights of Columbus will never Leave No Member or Neighbor Behind.

 

Let us pray for some rain or snow to help stop the spread of these wildfire and let us all pray for all the firefighters & volunteers who are risking their lives.  May God give them extra strength and keep them safe.

 

Vivat Jesus,

Ronald Boyce

Ronald Boyce, State Deputy

Reminder - Prayer Service for the Fires Starting NOW

 Worthy Brother Knights,

Our Oregon State Warden, Kenneth J. Anderson, has received several requests to hold another prayer service for the fires going on right now. He has scheduled a Zoom meeting for Wednesday September 16th at 7pm. He knows that this is very short notice, and feels the prayer is needed now. Due to the short turnaround time, they are just going to do it online.

Here is the information:

Topic: Prayer Service for the Fires

Time: Sep 16, 2020 07:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/79527347744?pwd=U1pMeERvUk0zVmkxSlM1ZWtnbmU4dz09

Meeting ID: 795 2734 7744
Passcode: 6MeJMW

Prayer Service for the Fires

Worthy Brother Knights,

Our Oregon State Warden, Kenneth J. Anderson, has received several requests to hold another prayer service for the fires going on right now. He has scheduled a Zoom meeting for Wednesday September 16th at 7pm. He knows that this is very short notice, and feels the prayer is needed now. Due to the short turnaround time, they are just going to do it online.

Here is the information:

Topic: Prayer Service for the Fires

Time: Sep 16, 2020 07:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/79527347744?pwd=U1pMeERvUk0zVmkxSlM1ZWtnbmU4dz09

Meeting ID: 795 2734 7744
Passcode: 6MeJMW

Message from the Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson

Worthy Brother Knights,

Here is the LINK from Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson, which is a condensed version of his annual report to the delegates to the Virtual Supreme Convention last month.

Council Meeting Tues September 15th 7pm (Online)

Hello Brother Knights,

Please join us this Tuesday, September 15th at 7pm for our next online Council #15485 meeting.

Here is the AGENDA to download along with our closing prayer. 

Marc will open the chat room at 6:50pm. Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or phone.

MEETING LINK

You can also dial in using your phone.

United States: 646-749-3122

Access Code: 372-718-853

One-touch: tel:+16467493122,,372718853# 

Update - Disaster Relief for Hurricane Laura

Message From Supreme

Dear Brother Knights,

Thanks to your generous support, the Knights of Columbus has contributed $171,500 toward disaster relief in the Louisiana and Texas areas in the wake of Hurricane Laura. You can read more about our efforts here on kofc.org.

But donating isn’t the only way you can help.

Listed below are links to our latest tweets and postings on social media, which we urge you to retweet and share on your personal and council accounts. We are also including a flyer that may be posted online or around your community.

• Help Louisiana and Texas via Twitter

• Help Louisiana and Texas via Facebook

• Hurricane Laura Disaster Relief Flyer

Sharing these links will cost no more than a few seconds of your time, but they can make all the difference in the life of another.

Please spread the word as we keep Louisiana and Texas and all affected areas in our prayers.

Click here to donate to Disaster Relief.

Prayer Service for the Pandemic

Message From State Council

Worthy Brother Knights,

Here is the zoom link option for the Prayer Service for the Pandemic. As a reminder, we will also be meeting at Knights Hall near St. Matthew's in Hillsboro. You can attend this prayer service either in person or on Zoom, whichever you feel most comfortable with. The world needs men of prayer during this time.

In-person address:

475 SE 3rd Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97123-4404, United States  

Online option:

Kenneth Anderson is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Prayer Service for Pandemic
Time: Sep 8, 2020 07:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/72807005105?pwd=VGhqZzk2ck9rZERaZkdEdUZYek5VUT09

Meeting ID: 728 0700 5105
Passcode: t3i4RY

Disaster Relief for Hurricane Laura

Message from Supreme

Dear Brother Knights,

Hurricane Laura made landfall last Thursday morning as the strongest hurricane to hit Louisiana in more than 150 years, bringing 150 mph winds and extensive damage.

In response to the devastation, the Supreme Council has launched an donation drive to assist with local relief operations. One hundred percent of the proceeds will go directly to relief efforts.

Your support is urgently needed please DONATE TODAY to help those suffering such devastation.

Scam Emails Alert

To All Knights

Please be aware that there are spam emails being sent to Knights of Columbus. Please don’t respond to any emails that look suspicious or asking for money or donations. Some Knights emails have been hacked. If there is a concern or issue with an email sent to you, please forward to our State Advocate.

State Advocate
Tom Radel
541-974-5716
twilldel@Comcast.net

From our parent council and St Vincent De Paul of St. Anthony's Parish

 A normal food box delivery for us is 940 boxes - we are receiving 1200 boxes.

We need more assistance putting boxes in cars and directing traffic. So if you have friends looking for ways to be involved and make a difference here is one such opportunity.

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090d45adab23a6fb6-food

Please share the opportunity to help with your friends and neighbors....don't have to be a member at St. Anthony to help.

Help With Linda Collin’s Move

 

I spoke with Linda yesterday regarding her progress in arranging for her move to her new apartment.  She has now set the date for Saturday September 5^th and the new apartment is now located in Beaverton.  So far, no one has volunteered to help her.  I offered to help her try to put a crew together.  Linda will be arranging for a truck that, “she hopes”, will be large enough to move everything in one trip. The time and remaining logistics will need to be discussed.  Please contact me, if you are available to help her next Saturday. 

 gene.andres@comcast.net

773.426.4816

Linda Collins Moving Date Change

Another housing situation has fallen through for Linda Collins.  Unfortunately, her apartment has already been rented to somebody else.  She now needs to move on Sunday Afternoon August 30th, and she will be headed further out to Aloha, someplace on 187th.

To volunteer,  or for more information, call Linda at 971-263-7612

Some Exciting news from Brother Polinus

Thoughts upon graduating with a degree from Portland State:

“My generosity may decline as time passes, But not my determination “ 

After decades of struggles, the battle has ended. The many sleepless nights have earned you a dividend of recognition in the elite of great men and women in the educational fraternity. 

The struggles were real, the fighting did not favor compassion, and the emanating pressure increased. It was evidence base appraisal from one quarter to the other yet perseverance says keep fighting and remains resilient with target focus lens. Determination propels the focus resilience to mean defiled all ought and be confident that you can do it. When others criticized, challenged the words, and try to be better by working hard to break those critics.

The journey is long, a hundred miles in the dark from ” I know a boy called Musah. He lives in a town Called Wa....”(Master Solomon Quarshie knows better )  till now. A lizard falls from the top of the Iroko tree to the ground and says if no one praised me I will praise myself. 

The general wellbeing of a person is full of transitional nodes; worse, bad, good, and excellent in all spheres of our development. I have many transitions nodes and do not be deceived to dwell on one stage as a sign of defeat. When a man is down do not hit him because he may hit you hardest when he stands up.

My appropriations to all people who in various ways assisted me on this journey. Special thanks to these individuals Ted Seeber, Mum & Dad Phil Javis, Michael Ludeman. 

You edged me to work steadily to improved term by term as every quarter, Dad will ask what grades did you got this term?

Above all, my wellbeing depended on God who favors me with a special grace. Without God's directions, I have nothing to share with you today.

K of C Meeting Notes 8/18/2020

 7 a.m.  Grand Knight Marc Gregoire called meeting to order.

The meeting was a teleconference.  It was opened with: the Lord's Prayer, followed by The Pledge of Allegiance.  We skipped Roll call of officers and the Membership check. The previous-meeting minutes were approved.

7:05 a.m.

The Grand Knight Remarks included:

Welcome everyone; Congratulations to the Essay $50.00 Contest Winner, Gabriella, and best wishes in state and national contests.  It was noted that in this months Agenda, you can find a link to the  K of C Convention and the Pope's message to the Knights.  As a result of Ted Seeber's efforts, our council won the Star Council Award.  Our Semi-Annual Audit was completed online.  And we discussed the Former Service Program Personnel (Gregoire, Andres, Chau, and Seeber) who need to complete their training.

Forms Due

The Essay Kit (9/1/20) can be downloaded, and the semi-annual circle status & audit does not apply to our council.

7:15 p.m.

For the Good of the Order was skipped because Michael O'Phelan was absent.

7:20 p.m.

The Treasurer, Mike Devlin, and the Financial Secretary,Phil Jarvis, made their reports.

OUR CHECKING ACCOUNT began the month with $983.69.  No Bills.  Received $500.00 from food for families.  New balance was $1590.94

Our charity account had a balance of $543.  The council elected to give All incoming donations of $500.00 to the Warm Springs Reservation who has suffered water-well problems and Covid-19 problems.  (The day after the meeting, additional donations came in, final check to Warm Springs was for $600)

7:30 p.m.

Committees Director, Gene Andres, Report

Marcos Alvarad, a seminarian that we supported, wrote an appeal for seminarian support in the Catholic Paper.  Next week we will discuss, "should we assist Marcos again?", and should we contribute money to St. John Fisher's confirmation classes.

Parish Updates

St. Clare/Ted Seeber said 50 people can attend any mass if you sign up on https://www.saintclarechurch.org/ 
St. Elizabeth/Marc Gregoire reported nothing new to report at this time.
St. John Fisher/Gene Andres had a meeting with Fr. Richard and offered K of C support if needed. Mike Devlin suggested that we offer financial assistance for their Confirmation Classes.

Faith Director Don Mey was absent.

Community Director Michael Chau didn't have anything to offer at this time.

Life Director, Ted Seeber, re-interated that we got 1 new member last month.

Family Director, Ted Seeber, said it's important to have daily family prayer sessions.

Membership Director, Ted Seeber, said the Bottle Exchange licensing requirements for a charity have not been met yet.  Phil Jarvis said he would take bottles to St. John Fisher or we could give bottles to Catholic Charities.  At present, our council has a 501c8 charity license.

Retention Chairman, Michael O'Phelan absent.

7:50 p.m.

K of C Business

No Neighbor Left Behind / James Morgan contacted members by email and phone, and stated that our members did a wonderful job raising money to help the Warm Springs Reservation.

Linda Collins who resides at 753 Nicole Drive in West Linn 97068 is asking for HELP ASAP to move back to Portland.  Her Phone no. is 503.266.1689

State Officer Dan Boone commented that there will be a Fraternal Benefits seminar on 9/16/2020; that we should run a membership drive in our church bulletin, and that there are no required programs for the Columbia Reward.

Recorder: James M. Morgan/ JamesM.Morgan18@gmail.com /503.320.1510

 

Council Meeting Tues August 18th 7pm (Online)

Hello Fellow Knights,

Please join us this Tuesday, August 18th at 7pm for our next online Council #15485 meeting.

Here is the Agenda to download along with our closing prayer. 

Marc will open the chat room at 6:50pm. Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. We will be trying out a new remote connection platform.

Meeting LINK (https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/372718853)

You can also dial in using your phone.

One-touch: tel:+16467493122,,372718853# 

United States: +1 (646) 749-3122

Access Code: 372-718-853

“Meet Seminarian Marcos Alvarad”

 Below is a link to a clip of our RSVP candidate, Marcos Alvarad.  The video is a promotion for the Archdiocese of Portland 2020 Seminarian Appeal.

https://vimeo.com/446627016    

You may recall, our council presented Marcos a Check for $500 last March 1^st as part of our RSVP program.

Gabriella gets another $50 from the Knights of Columbus

 Our sole Essay Contest entry from St. Clare's, took 3rd in the State.  Her Essay will be forwarded on to Supreme and the International Contest.

Ted Seeber awarded her the $50 check at the 9:15 am Mass at St. Clare's on Sunday, August 9.

Linda Collins needs help moving

 She is going back closer to St. Clare's, and will be getting a Uhaul for August 27th.  As with all current events, masks will be required.

For more information, call Linda at 971-263-7612

Just Received from Supreme.

 

Worthy Brother Seeber, Congratulations! Council 15485 has earned the 2019-2020 Star Council Award, recognizing excellence in program activity, membership growth (100.00%% of quota), insurance promotion, fraternal reporting and Safe Environment compliance. During this challenging year, your council adapted and continued to stand in the breach; serving your brothers, families, parishes and communities. The Supreme Council is pleased to recognize these achievements and acknowledge the hard work of you and your brother knights. Your council’s award plaque will be shipped to your District Deputy for presentation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, production and delivery of awards is currently estimated at 10-12 weeks. Additionally, to help celebrate this accomplishment and promote your council, attached please find a bulletin announcement and press release for your use. These are great tools that will highlight your good works in the community. There is still much to be done and we need your council to lead the way. Keep the momentum going and start planning now for another successful fraternal year! The new 2020-2021 Star Council requirements, which can be found at KofC.Org/Star, will help guide your council to excellence in the year to come. Thank you and Vivat Jesus! Fraternally, Daniel Isabel Manager, Fraternal Operations Knights of Columbus 1 Columbus Plaza New Haven, Connecticut 06510

Attachments: Bulletin Announcement Press Release Template