Becoming a Member

Becoming a Member

We are always looking for people interested in joining our organization. Here are some common questions and concerns asked from prospective members:

Q. I don't have time to join another organization; why should I join the Knights of Columbus?

As a Knight you can choose the projects with which you wish to be involved in within your own community. What is more, the Order is dedicated to family life and the many benefits it offers. From insurance to scholarships to service and social activities and programs, all are open to the whole family.

Q. What are the requirements?

Membership requirements are that he be a practical Catholic gentleman, who is 18 years of age or older.

Q. What is a practical Catholic?

A practical Catholic is one who is in union with the Holy See and who practices the precepts of the Catholic Church.

Q. Explain what Degrees are.

There are four degrees within the Knights of Columbus. Each degree ceremony imparts a lesson on the Order's core virtues of Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism.

Q. Do I have to purchase Insurance to become a member?

No; unlike many fraternal organizations one does not become a member by purchasing insurance. In the Knights of Columbus a man has to be a member before he may avail himself of the insurance benefit. Purchasing insurance is optional, however; the life insurance and long-term care insurance products offered by the Order are not only competitively priced, they are among the most solid and highly rated products available anywhere. Standard & Poor's and A.M. Best, the leading independent agencies that rate insurance companies, give K of C insurance their highest ratings.

There are several benefits to becoming a member of our organization. Our members are close friends and we have a great time when we get together. Of course we also have a common interest, and we hope to further our cause.

The Knights of Columbus offers special benefits of membership. Among these are unique programs that exist excusively for K of C families faced with needs that often fall outside traditional insurance plans. The Family Fraternal Benefits package, available to all our good-standing members and their families, adds value to membership in our organization.

Guaranteed Life Insurance Benefits for Uninsurable Children
Death Benefits Available for Stillborn/Miscarried Children
Orphan Benefits
Member/Spouse Accidental Death Benefits

To join we need a completed application (Form 100) and membership dues for the first year. Please contact our Membership Chairman any Knight for more information and a copy of the application form.

Why Join Us?

As a member of our organization, you enjoy the opportunity to participate as a family and positively affect your church and community. One person can make a difference. With 1.6 million members, the Knights of Columbus' impact is enormous. Last year alone, we donated $116 million to charitable causes, and performed over 56 million hours of community service. That's impact!

Imagine being part of an organization that fills your heart and your mind with the joy of giving to others and the feeling that comes with making a difference.

Knights are Catholic men, 18 years of age and older, who are committed to making their community a better place, while supporting their Church. Being a Knight is more than camaraderie; it is being involved with your community; it is supporting your local Catholic Church, while enhancing your own faith; it is about protecting and enhancing your family life.

Knights of Columbus * 14908 Main Street * Upper Marlboro * MD * 20772

Instituted: 29 April, 1986