History

The Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus was founded in late-19th century Connecticut amidst a backdrop of growing fraternal benefit societies, anti-Catholic prejudice, and perilous working conditions. Father Michael J. McGivney, recognizing the need in his community, gathered men at St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, CT on October 2^nd, 1881. He proposed establishing a lay organization to prevent Catholic men from joining secret societies contrary to Church teachings, while also providing support for families of deceased members.

Taking Christopher Columbus as their patron to symbolize loyalty to both country and faith, the Knights elected officers in February 1882 and achieved corporate status on March 29^th of that year. Founded on principles of charity and unity, the Knights of Columbus expanded to include fraternity and patriotism in subsequent years. Since its inception, the organization has remained committed to serving the Church, community, and family with virtue, drawing Catholic men seeking to live out their faith through meaningful service.

Our Council’s First Year….

The Holy Spirit Council #15748 was chartered June 26^th, 2013 under the direction of Father James P. Morgan, former pastor of the Holy Spirit Parish in Sioux Falls, SD. There were 62 charter members that made up the council. Our members were all transfers from the Marquette Council at the time. At the beginning of the 2021-2022 year we have grown to over 200 members.

The first officers of the council were Grand Knight, Pat McCue; Deputy Grand Knight, Jay Cudzilo; Chancellor, Bart Workman; Financial Secretary, Kevin Johnson; Recorder, Tad Raterman; Treasurer, Dean Dziedzic; Advocate, Max Dreier; Inside Guard, Rob Keisacker Jr.; Outside Guard, Ben Forred; Trustees, Ron Staebell and Michael Schmit.

Grand Knights

The Grand Knight serves as the leader of a local Knights of Columbus council within a parish, overseeing its operations and guiding its members in fulfilling the organization’s mission of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity. This role involves critical responsibilities such as organizing charitable initiatives, fostering a sense of unity among members, and representing the council within the parish and broader community. The Grand Knight plays a pivotal role in upholding the values of the Knights of Columbus and ensuring the council’s impactful presence in serving the needs of the parish and beyond.

During our existence we have had six Grand Knights that have served the Council:

• 2013 – 2015 Patrick McCue
• 2015 – 2017 Jay Cudzilo
• 2017 – 2019 Jeff Donovan
• 2019 – 2021 Tad Raterman
• 2021 – 2023 Kevin Newman
• 2023 – Present Kraig Keck

Activities

Serving our Priests, Seminarians, Parish, and Community through various activities and volunteer opportunities is integral to the mission of the Knights of Columbus. By actively engaging in charitable initiatives and volunteer work, the organization demonstrates its commitment to embodying the principles of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity. These efforts not only strengthen the bonds within the community but also reflect the Knights of Columbus’ dedication to upholding and promoting the values of their faith through meaningful and impactful service.

Events and activities our Council has sponsored and supported include:

• Lenten meals following Stations of the Cross
• Annual Free throw contest
• Parishioner Thank You breakfast
• Annual Church picnic, Fall Festival and Communio activities
• Fund drive activities
• School events kicking off the new school year
• Volunteering at the Sioux Empire Fair bingo
• Caroling at Avera Prince of Peace
• Protecting the lives of the unborn by praying the Rosary
• Serving meals at the Special Olympics activities
• Coats for Kids through Family to Family
• Food for Families Lenten food drive
• Serving at Feeding South Dakota
• Keeping Christ in Christmas poster contest
• Volunteering at The Banquet & St. Francis House

Awards

We are immensely proud to share the numerous awards and recognitions earned by our dedicated council. These accolades are a testament to the unwavering commitment and exceptional contributions of our members, whose passion and hard work have helped us accomplish these achievements. While we are honored to receive these awards, it’s important to emphasize that they are not the primary focus or purpose of our work. Instead, they serve as a reflection of the collective impact and meaningful difference we strive to make in our community and beyond.

• Triple Star Council Award (2013, 2016)
• Star Council Award (2014 – 2017, 2019, 2024)
• Columbian Award (2018, 2024)
• RSVP Award (2015 – Present)
• Culture of Life Service Award (2017)
• Elite Council Award (2013 – 2016)
• State Outstanding Family, Life, & Faith Awards (2019 – Present)
• Faith in Action Awards (2019 – Present)
• Founders’ Award (2024)
• Father McGivney Award (2024)

Charter Members:

Charter members of an organization play a crucial role in laying the foundation and setting the tone for the council’s culture and values. Their commitment, vision, and dedication are essential in shaping the initial direction and purpose of our council. As the first members, they have a significant influence on our future trajectory and help establish our identity within the community. Our charter members in 2013 were: