Since 1882, membership in the Knights of Columbus has been open to men 18 years of age or older who are "practical" (that is, practicing) Catholics in union with the Holy See. Since that time, the Knights of Columbus has understood "practical catholic" to mean a Catholic who accepts the teaching authority of the Catholic Church on matters of faith and morals, aspires to live in accord with the precepts of the Catholic Church, i and is in good standing in the Catholic Church.

Founded by a young parish priest now on the path to sainthood, the Knights of Columbus has helped strengthen men, their families, their parishes and their communities since 1882. Today, there are more than 1.9 million members of the K of C doing good across the world.

The Knights of Columbus stands as the strong right arm of the Church, and challenges members to grow in their faith through programs, fraternity and vital resources such as our award-winning magazine, Columbia, and many other exclusive member communications.

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