Knights of Columbus Council 18677

Welcome to the St. Mark The Evangelist Council 18677 of the Knights of Columbus Official Website

Thoughts from Worthy Grand Knight Michael Aiken

Message from Worthy Lecturer Michael Lomax

Brothers,

With the recent election of a new Pope, and the Knights approaching a new Fraternal year, I have something for you to consider. Pope Leo asks us, as did his predecessor Pope Francis, to open our arms to everyone, to invite everyone to the Table, and to not judge anyone. That’s what Jesus did and what his example should teach us. The Church, however, teaches us that there are life choices, behaviors, thoughts, that are not in keeping with what Jesus taught us and are sinful. How do we reconcile these concepts?

Observation seems to indicate that people tend to be judgmental. We see and hear it all the time. Are human beings born judgmental? Is it learned behavior? That could get into the ages old debate about nature vs nurture, but that might be a discussion for another day. My challenge to myself and all of you is this; How do we overcome the urge to judge others and truly welcome to the Table with open arms?

Yours in Christ

,

Mike Aiken

Introduction:

In times of great loss, it is often difficult to find the right words to communicate our feelings. It may also be a challenge in composing our thoughts in prayer. I have added a quote from Proverbs and three short prayers that may be helpful. (06/17/25)

Proverbs 3:5-6

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Lord, help us trust in Your plan even when we do not understand, and guide us through this difficult journey. Amen.

Prayers:

Holding on to Faith:

Compassionate God, as we navigate the tumultuous waves of grief, help us hold fast to our faith in You. Even in our darkest moments, may we cling to the hope that You are our refuge and strength. Grant us the fortitude to withstand this pain and the wisdom to see Your guiding hand through the storm. In the midst of our sorrow, may our faith in Your unwavering love never waver, and may Your light illuminate our path ahead.

Embracing Grace:

Loving Lord, in this time of sorrow and anguish, we seek Your divine grace and peace. Enfold us in Your loving embrace and grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change. Help us find solace in Your everlasting love and grant us the courage to carry on with the strength that comes from You alone. May Your grace be our guiding light as we navigate this dark season, and may Your peace reign in our hearts forever.

Sustaining Love:

Heavenly Father, in this time of immense pain and sorrow, sustain us with Your unfailing love. Let Your love be the anchor that keeps us steady amidst the raging storm of grief. Grant us the grace to find comfort in Your unchanging affection and the wisdom to see Your hand at work even in the midst of this trial. May Your enduring love uplift us and carry us through this season of profound loss.

Michael Lomax, MLD1I

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