Celebrating America 250 Through
Faith, Brotherhood, and Charity.
Dear Brother Knight, This Fourth of July, we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the United States. Such a milestone gives us the opportunity to reflect on our country’s promise and the work still necessary to form a “more perfect union”. As we mark this anniversary, it’s worth recalling how the Knights of Columbus have helped strengthen our nation. When Blessed Michael McGivney founded the Order, the United States was at a crossroads. The Civil War was a fresh and painful memory. The Industrial Revolution was disrupting communities. Not only were Catholic men dying in factories, but they and their families faced widespread discrimination. After barely a hundred years, the American promise of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” seemed beyond the reach of many. Enter the Knights of Columbus. We gave Catholic men a place to belong, and we proved that good Catholics make good Americans. As followers of Christ who know that every person is created in the image and likeness of God, we fought for racial equality when few others dared. We advanced the cause of religious freedom, protecting Catholic education from being banned. We led the charge to add “under God” to the Pledge of Allegiance. And generations of Knights have defended this “one nation under God” by serving and sacrificing in uniform. Much of our work has been recorded in the history books. Yet many of our most important contributions go unheralded. When you gather in your council or assembly — when you come together in faith and service — you give something powerful to America itself. You devote your lives to lifting up the less fortunate. You build the bonds of community, cohesion and Christian conviction on which the nation’s future depends. The very act of being a Knight of Columbus makes you a patriot. On this 250th anniversary, I thank you for making America better through your daily work and witness. And I offer a prayer: May God bless you, my brother Knight, and may God continue to bless this country we call home. Patrick E. Kelly Supreme Knight Knights of Columbus
Recent News Blog
Knights of Columbus Council 13341 is a brotherhood of Catholic men dedicated to charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. These are the Four pillars of the Knights. Through faith-driven service, we support our parish, assist those in need, and strengthen our local community.
We host a variety of events throughout the year that bring faith, family, and service together. From community favorites like our Blood Drives, Classic Car Show, Fish Frys, Breakfast with St. Nick to supporting Spring Training baseball concessions, these events help benefit local and national charities as well as our parish, Our Lady of the Angels.
Our Council, led by Grand Knight Gordon Shellhaas, is one of the largest and most active in the state of Florida with over 400 dedicated brothers. Together, we serve our parish and community with faith, fellowship, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
Joining the Knights of Columbus is a meaningful way to live out your faith, give back to the community, and grow as a Catholic man. Whether through volunteering, supporting parish initiatives, or serving those in need, your involvement makes a lasting impact.
A Message From Our Grand Knight
Welcome to the Knights of Columbus Saints Cosmas and Damian Council #13341. We are a vibrant and active council consisting of 450+ members.
On behalf of our Council, I extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to you. As Knights of Columbus, we are a brotherhood of Catholic men united by our guiding principles: Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism.
Our mission is simple yet profound: to support our local parish, serve those in need, and strengthen one another in faith. Whether we are running a charity drive, hosting a fellowship event, or simply lending a helping hand to a neighbor, our actions are rooted in the teachings of Christ.
Father Michael J. McGivney founded the Knights of Columbus to protect families and build a community of faithful men. Today, we strive to live out that legacy by being devoted husbands, fathers, and active members of our Church.
To our Brother Knights: thank you for your continued dedication. To the men of our parish: I invite you to answer the call. Joining our council is a powerful way to grow in your faith, build lasting friendships, and make a tangible difference in our community. Thank you for visiting, and may God bless you and your families.
Vivat Jesus!
Michael Mahan
Grand Knight Council #13341