Father Michael J. McGivney, as a 29-year old priest in New Haven, Connecticut founded the Knights of Columbus in 1882. His idea for the new lay organization was to prevent Catholic men from entering secret societies antithetical to Church teaching (prevalent at that time), unite Catholic men together to strengthen their faith, and help families of deceased members. Dangerous factory working conditions of the time resulted in many fatherless families.

Having been beatified on October 31, 2020 Blessed Michael McGivney has now entered the final phase for canonization. One more confirmed miracle attributed to his intercession is needed for him to be declared a saint!

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