- St. Patrick’s Council
In Canada, the Knights of Columbus exists to help Catholic men live their faith in a practical, public, and supportive way: strengthening parish life, serving neighbours in need, and building fraternity among men who want to grow as disciples. The Order began as a fraternal benefit society, created to protect families when a breadwinner died or became disabled, and that original spirit of mutual aid still shapes its life today. Brothers look after one another and, together, turn outward in charity and service.
At the heart of the Knights’ identity are four guiding principles: charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. These are not abstract ideals but a framework for Catholic life in action. Charity calls members to concrete works of mercy; unity binds men together across differences for the good of the Church; fraternity forms lasting bonds of trust and shared responsibility; and patriotism encourages faithful civic engagement shaped by Catholic conscience. In Canada, the purpose of the Knights has always been twofold: to strengthen the Church from within while also being a visible and constructive presence in local communities.
In the Diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith, this purpose takes on a distinctly northern character. Vast distances, small and dispersed populations, and limited resources mean that parish life often depends on a few committed volunteers who are willing to organize, fundraise, and serve in all seasons. In this context, a Knights of Columbus council often becomes a quiet but essential support for parish life. Councils help sustain worship and community gatherings, respond to local needs, and provide practical assistance to families facing hardship or loss.
Rather than large-scale programs, the Knights’ witness in the North is most often seen in steady presence and reliability. Members show up consistently, support their pastors and parish leaders, and help ensure that the Church remains close to people in remote communities. Their service is shaped by the realities of northern life and by close relationships within the community.
In this way, the meaning and purpose of the Knights of Columbus in Canada—and especially in the Diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith—is found not in visibility or prestige, but in faithful, often unseen service. By forming men who are prayerful, dependable, and committed to charity, the Knights offer a lived witness that the Gospel is carried forward through fraternity, generosity, and shared responsibility for the life of the Church.
Mackenzie-Fort Smith 