The Tar Heel Knight

Dear Brothers,
 
February 2024 has a number of unusual situations that we as Catholics can revel in. First, Ash Wednesday falls on February 14^th (Valentine’s Day) this year. Saint Valentine's Day, was established by Pope Gelasius I in AD 496 to be celebrated on February 14 in honor of Saint Valentine of Rome who was martyred on February 14 in AD 269. During the Middle Ages, it was believed that birds pair in mid-February and the association of romance with Valentine’s day was born. The fact that we are beginning our Lenten journey toward the passion and death of our Lord and Savior on Valentine’s Day is fitting as his suffering is indicative of his love for all of us.
 
Secondly, 2024 is a leap year so there is an extra day in February. St Brigid of Ireland, whose feast day is February 1, lamented the fact that women had long waits to be proposed to. She petitioned St. Patrick in the 5^th century to allow for women to propose and he declared that on February 29 (which only occurs every four years) that women could take things into their own hands and pop the question on bended knee. There are many legends over the centuries as to how this has been implemented and it’s a little-known fact today, but for men that are in a relationship that is approaching the marriage commitment and don’t propose to their significant other on February 14, don’t be surprised if she proposes on February 29.
 
So, while we are contemplating the love that our Savior has for us and the love that we have for our families, let’s not forget the love that we share with our fellow Catholic men. The Knights of Columbus were founded to ensure that widows and orphans were provided for after the death of the husband/father. That is true love to provide for others in their time of distress. Whether we are saving the lives of unborn children, or taking care of someone after a disaster, or praying with someone that is struggling in their faith, or providing insurance products for those that need it, that is what we as Knights do. Why not offer that love to someone that you know? Share the love with any eligible Catholic man so that they can do the same. February is the month of love, so please share your love with others. We are told to love one another as Jesus has loved us. Well, he gave his life for us out of love. And remember, I love each and everyone of you!
 
Finally, as a reminder, I am looking forward to seeing so many of you this year at our annual state convention. This year it will be held in Durham and the registration is open to any knight and can be found on the state website www.kofcnc.org Please sign up early to ensure that your spot is secure.
 
Chris