Pope Leo XIV Sends Heartfelt Video Message to Knights of Columbus on August 7th
Pope Leo XIV sends personal video message to the Knights of Columbus during their August 7 convention, praising their charity and devotion.
NewsSutra
Vatican City — In a stirring and historic gesture, Pope Leo XIV addressed the Knights of Columbus via a special video message on Wednesday, August 7, expressing deep gratitude for their charitable works and unwavering commitment to faith, family, and service.
The video greeting, released during the Knights’ 141st Supreme Convention, marks the first time Pope Leo XIV has directly spoken to the Catholic fraternal organization since his election in 2023. The message was broadcast during the opening session of the convention, held this year in Louisville, Kentucky.
“Dear brothers and sisters of the Knights of Columbus, I greet you in the peace of Christ,” Pope Leo XIV began. “Your devotion to prayer, unity, and service to the Church is a powerful witness in today’s world. May you continue to be men and women of hope.”
A Papal Salute to Lay Leadership
Pope Leo XIV’s message focused on the essential role of laypeople in the Church’s mission today. His remarks emphasized the value of Catholic fraternal organizations in an increasingly secular world and encouraged members to remain steadfast in defending religious freedom, supporting the poor, and living out the Gospel through action.
“Your founder, the Venerable Michael McGivney, dreamed of a world where faith and fraternity walk hand in hand,” the Pope said. “I pray that you may always keep that vision alive.”
The Pope also highlighted the Knights’ recent humanitarian work, especially their efforts to provide aid to displaced families in Ukraine, and their ongoing support for persecuted Christians in the Middle East.
Watch the Full Papal Message
The full video message from Pope Leo XIV can be viewed below:
Knights of Columbus Respond with Gratitude
Supreme Knight Patrick E. Kelly responded to the papal message with a heartfelt thank-you, stating:
“We are deeply honored by the Holy Father’s words. His encouragement strengthens our resolve to be faithful Catholic men dedicated to charity, unity, and fraternity.”
Kelly also reiterated the organization’s growing global outreach, pointing to new councils established in the Philippines, Poland, and sub-Saharan Africa.
The convention, which runs from August 6–8, features keynote addresses, daily Mass, charitable fundraising events, and policy resolutions aimed at guiding the organization’s efforts in the coming year.
A Historic Moment for the Church and the Order
Pope Leo XIV’s message is being described as a significant milestone in his papacy, underscoring his focus on empowering laypeople and strengthening ties with Catholic organizations worldwide. The Pope has made it clear that building up the Church in modern society will require active collaboration between clergy and laity.
The Knights of Columbus, founded in 1882, now number over 2 million members globally. Known for their charitable giving, insurance programs, and faith-based community building, the organization remains one of the most visible lay institutions in Catholic life.
For more on the Knights’ mission and initiatives, visit www.kofc.org
