Knights of Columbus: Spreading Warmth and Hope in Alberta
In the heart of our Ukrainian Catholic community, the Knights of Columbus stand as a beacon of faith, service, and solidarity. As the largest Catholic fraternal organization in the world, their reach extends to over 2 million members across countries, including Canada and Ukraine. In Alberta, more than 19,000 Knights embody the organization’s core mission to serve others, with members including Bishop David and many of our clergy.
Their work is rooted in four guiding principles:
- Charity: Helping those in need, particularly women and children.
- Unity: Strengthening ties with the Church and supporting clergy.
- Fraternity: Caring for member families and fostering community.
- Patriotism: Upholding love for country and freedoms.
From supporting parish initiatives to extending a helping hand to those affected by global crises, the Knights’ impact resonates deeply in our Eparchy and beyond.
A Winter of Warmth: Coats for Kids Program
One of the most touching projects by the Knights of Columbus is the Coats for Kids Program. Through this initiative, the Knights have provided new, high-quality winter coats to children in need across North America. For years, St. Stephen’s Protomartyr Parish has been a key participant, and in recent times, the program has focused on helping Ukrainian evacuee children in Alberta.
In 2023, the Knights distributed over 300 coats to Ukrainian children who fled the war. In 2024, they expanded their efforts, providing 250 coats, along with mittens, scarves, and toques, spending over $12,000 raised through private donations from parishioners.
To make the distribution days special, snacks and treats were shared with the children as they tried on their new winter gear. This program exemplifies the Knights’ commitment to charity and unity, offering tangible support to those who need it most.
The Ukrainian Wings: A Story of Resilience
The Knights’ dedication to helping others also touched the lives of a group of young Ukrainian athletes. At the Wickfest International Hockey Tournament held in Calgary, the Ukrainian Wings hockey team captured hearts and inspired many with their resilience and determination.
The team, composed of girls aged 11 to 13 from cities such as Kharkiv, Dnipro, Kyiv, and Lviv, travelled to Canada to compete in the U13 division. Many had not skated in two years due to the war and the destruction of their local arenas. Despite these challenges, the girls won the gold medal in their division and advanced to the final game, where they faced a Calgary team in a hard-fought match, losing 3-0.
Their journey was not without challenges. Upon arrival, it became evident that many of the girls were unprepared for Alberta’s freezing temperatures. The Knights of Columbus quickly stepped in, providing winter coats, mittens, and toques through their Coats for Kids Program. Even the coaches received new winter gear to ensure they could support their team comfortably.
The Ukrainian Wings’ trip was made possible by organizations like CanWaCH, which covered travel and accommodation costs. After a whirlwind trip filled with activities like visits to Banff and the Calgary Zoo, the girls returned home with memories of camaraderie, faith, and kindness that transcended borders.
Continuing the Mission of Compassion
The Knights of Columbus remind us of the power of community, faith, and service. Their commitment to helping the most vulnerable among us—whether it’s providing warmth to evacuee children or supporting young athletes displaced by war—is a reflection of Christ’s call to love our neighbours.
Let their story inspire us to contribute in our own ways:
- Volunteer with or support charitable initiatives in your parish.
- Extend a helping hand to families and children affected by war and displacement.
- Pray for those in need and for the continued success of programs like Coats for Kids.
Together, we can embody the spirit of the Knights of Columbus, creating a community rooted in faith and a brighter future for all.
Learn more about Knights of Columbus: https://www.kofc.org/en//index.htmlÂ
COATS FOR KIDS
Coats for Kids exemplifies the Knights of Columbus’ mission of charity and providing for the most vulnerable members of society: https://www.kofc.org/en/what-we-do/charity/coats-for-kids/index.htmlÂ