The SPJII Men’s Retreat, sponsored by Council 16492 Knights of Columbus, was held Saturday, Dec. 9 at our Lady of Le Leche National Shrine in St. Augustine. Part of the day was this outdoor mass said by Father Rich in absolutely perfect weather. 87 men from the parish attended. Thanks to all those who helped plan and implement and especially thanks to our shepherd Father Pagano for an excellent day of self-introspection, sharing with fellow parishioners and thought-provoking dialogue.

The Past Grand Knights of Council 16492 were feted at a Tribute Dinner Sept. 22 at St. Johns Golf & CC. Each was presented with a special portrait created by Sean Biggs. From left to right are Patrice and Bob Conlon, Dianne and Ken Gault, Julie and Steve Wilson, Marsha and Clyde Slick and Madeline and Paul Coronato.

The St. John Paul II Council 16492 Knights of Columbus recently donated 100 Bibles to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s office to be used for inmates. When asked what the greatest need might be, Corrections Chaplain Deon Johnson said “Catholic Bibles and other Catholic reading material.” The Knights give to a variety of agencies who serve people in need.

Pictured from left to right are Lt. George Harrigan; Council member Mariano Bautista, who had the original idea of donating Bibles; Sheriff, and fellow Council 16492 member, Rob Hardwick; Deputy Deon Johnson, Corrections Chaplain; and Grand Knight Pete Falcone.

More than a dozen Knights and their families helped at the Summer Special Olympics of St. Johns County swim competition this summer. 

“I want to thank you and all the Knights from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to volunteer at our swimming competition,” said Mary Jo Stansel, County Coordinator for Special Olympics. “We really appreciate all of your help setting up, helping with timing events and giving out awards to the athletes. We are so lucky to have a group like the Knights that take the time to volunteer with us.”

The Knights donated $5,000 to the Early Learning Center to go toward the cost of new tent-like awnings for the children’s outside gathering area at the ELC.

From left are Gus Carlson, Lecturer who proposed the donation; Christina Carolino, ELC Manager; Caroline Vickery, ELC Director and Grand Knight Pete Falcone.

From the Grand Knight, Pete Falcone:

Brother Knights,

Even though this is way out in October please immediately go and sign up for these volunteer positions. 

CHARITY IS THE 1ST DEGREE OF OUR ORDER AND YOU ARE BEING CALLED TO HELP

Bring your lady knight! No experience necessary.

We need to ensure that Pickleball Income keeps coming to our Council! This revenue allows us to reach so many in our community that need our help.

I can’t stress enough how important this is. Go there now, don’t delay.

You are encouraged to sign up for more than one session.

Program description and slot instructions are on the sign up.

Please sign up below!!

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094AA8AC2CA5FFC61-florida

Thank you for your time and help. It is very much appreciated.

Outgoing Worthy Grand Knight Ken Gault, right, is presented with a plaque commemorating his leadership and dedication over the past two years as Grand Knight. Incoming Grand Knight Pete Falcone made the presentation at the July 11 Council meeting.

Voted unanimously by the incoming leadership team, Past Grand Knight Ken Gault is awarded the “Knight of the Year” award for 2022-2023 from Grand Knight Pete Falcone, left. Ken’s commitment of time and energy, and his dedication to the wellbeing of the council were exemplary during the past year. Ken is now a 3-year Trustee.

Father Pagano wore a new vestment on June 17 for the Solemnity of The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.

This vestment was purchased with financial support from the Council.

On the vestment, Jesus’ sacred heart is encircled by the crown of thorns that He wore, symbolizing the stings caused by our sins. His Heart is enflamed with the love he bears for us. In the background of the image, the wheat and the grapevines represent the body and blood of Christ.

The officers elected for the 2023-2024 Fraternal Year were installed on Saturday, June 17. The positions are effective July 1.

Incoming Grand Knight Pete Falcone gave special recognition to the inaugural Knights who started our Council seven years ago. He also praised the former Grand Knights, especially the phenomenal work Grand Knight Ken Gault has done over the past two years.

“With the rapid growth of our parish, Brother Ken was faced with the daunting task of accelerated Council growth, so much so, that we just received first place at the state convention for the second year in a row,” GK-Elect Pete said.

“But with that growth, now comes the responsibility of developing the delicate balancing act of getting all these new members involved and keeping older members active. We’re at a new, transitional stage, but we can’t forget what got us here. When you think that we’ve only been in existence for 7 years, it is amazing how much we have accomplished, how much money we are able to raise, and how many organizations and individuals we help each year, and what we can do in the future.”

Knights presented $35,000 from our Golf Tournament proceeds for SJPII Capital Campaign.