In 1919 a group of Catholic men returning to Glasgow from the Great War, amongst huge depravation, craved to keep the comradeship they had experienced and wished to thank God for their safe return home. So, the Knights of St Columba was formed with the aim of “Serving God by Serving Others”.
The organisation spread rapidly around the country and soon there was a council in Accrington which is now pproaching its own centennial anniversary. In its heyday there were upwards of 80 members, but times change and there are now less than ten.
Despite the small group it is still active in the local community. Some of the actions it is engaged in include:
- Organising the Way of the Cross on Good Friday, which last year attracted 250 people
- Take part in Remembrance Sunday at the Cenotaph in Oak Hill Park and place a poppy wreath.
- Provide the Christmas and Holy Week posters to the churches free of charge.
- Raise money for charities, last year we were able to donate £500 to Marys Meals.
However, our council is now in a critical position and, if it is to continue into its second century more support is required. We meet once a month for one hour where we check on each other’s welfare, discuss projects and debate interesting Catholic topics. So, if there are any men in the parish who wish to know more or think they could offer this support the next meeting of the Knights is on Tuesday 17th June in the Marian Room at St Anne’s at 7:30pm where you will be warmly welcomed.
Alternatively, if you unable to attend the meeting, please provide your contact details to our Member of Honour, Fr Francis, or to our Parish Administrator, Siobhan Wood, who will arrange for a member of the Knights to contact you.