Bl. Michael J. McGivney
Bl. Michael McGivney was a priest who was a central figure in the growth of Catholicism in America and the founder of the Knights of Columbus. Father McGivney focused all his spiritual, mental, and physical energies on helping others persevere and grow in their faith. He created the Knights of Columbus in 1882 to aid Catholic men in growing in faith and fraternity, as well as to provide insurance to their families in case they were to perish in dangerous occupations, like coal mining. This fraternal benefit society grew quickly and now has 1.7 million members. McGivney sadly did not see his society grow. He developed tuberculosis during a global pandemic and passed away on August 14th, 1890. “He was charitable to a fault … the poor found in him a good Samaritan, and were the frequent recipients of his bounty … there are few clergymen in my recollection who enjoyed in a greater degree than he the respect of his colleagues and the reverence of the people.” - a priest describing Father McGivney
Pilgrimage Site in the United States
Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, Blessed Michael McGivney Center for Renewal — Waterbury, CT