St. Clement of Rome | Council #7018 | November 6, 2026
On Friday evening, November 6, our Knights of Columbus Council gathered at St. Clement of Rome for our annual Memorial Mass, remembering and praying for our deceased Brother Knights and all the faithful departed.
We were blessed with a wonderful turnout of Brother Knights, family members, and parishioners who joined us for this beautiful and solemn occasion. Father Art Baranowski celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, offering our prayers for the eternal repose of the souls of those who have gone before us.
As we reflected upon the names of our deceased Brothers, we were reminded that behind every name is a life, a family, and a legacy of faith and service.
These men were husbands, fathers, grandfathers, sons, and friends. They were men who loved their families, practiced their Catholic faith, and gave generously of their time and talents to our Council and parish. Some helped build the foundation of our Council. Others served quietly, working behind the scenes, volunteering at parish events, supporting charitable causes, and strengthening the bonds of fraternity that we enjoy today.
Each man, in his own way, contributed to the Brotherhood we have inherited. We stand upon the shoulders of the men who came before us. Their sacrifices, their service, and their example of Catholic fraternity remain part of who we are as Knights of Columbus.
But our responsibility to these Brothers did not end with their passing.
As Catholics, we believe in the Communion of Saints — that wonderful spiritual union joining the faithful on earth, the Holy Souls in Purgatory, and the saints in Heaven. Death does not sever the bonds of Christian charity.
We must continue to pray for our departed Brothers, asking Our Lord, in His infinite mercy, to forgive their sins, purify their souls, and welcome them into the eternal joy of Heaven. And we trust that those who have entered into God’s glory will, in turn, intercede for us as we continue our earthly pilgrimage.
As Sacred Scripture reminds us:
“It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins.” — 2 Maccabees 12:46 (Douay-Rheims)
Following Mass, everyone gathered for cake, refreshments, and fellowship. It was a fitting opportunity to reconnect, share memories, and celebrate the friendships and family bonds that make our Council so special.
Our sincere thanks to Father Art for celebrating the Mass, to everyone who helped organize the evening, and especially to the families and Brother Knights who joined us in prayer.
As we continue through November, the month traditionally dedicated to the Holy Souls in Purgatory, let us remember these men by name. Let us never allow their memory to fade, nor neglect our sacred duty to pray for them.
Someday, we too will be among the names remembered at this annual Mass. May the example of those who have gone before us inspire us to live faithfully, serve generously, love our families, and remain steadfast in our devotion to Our Lord.
Our Brotherhood does not end at the grave. Our prayers unite us still.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Please continue to pray for our departed Brothers.
