By Tom Kalchik
The St Elizabeth Seton Knights of Columbus Council 12144 was recognized at the Arizona Knights of Columbus annual convention in mid-May for an exceptional year of charitable work in our community. The Council was selected as the outstanding Council in Arizona and received the Council of the Year Award. It received the Faith in Action Life award, the only one given in the State, for its Car Seats for Christ program. Its District Deputy, Dan Kudulis, was named District Deputy of the Year.
Here is a list of some of the work that earned it State-wide recognition:
- The Car Seats for Christ program was conducted on one weekend in December 2023. The Council raised over $10,000 in car seats, cash, and other items for the sisters of Life Pregnancy Care Center in Phoenix. The program was such a success that the State Council awarded Council 12144 the Faith in Action Life award for “creating a culture of life, assisting pregnant women in need, caring for the elderly, aiding the handicapped, and empowering those with special needs to realize their full potential.” The State Council has designated the Car Seats for Christ a state-wide program to be used by all Knights of Columbus Councils in Arizona.
- The Council sponsored the Frank Comaianni Charity Golf Tournament in March. This year, 128 golfers participated. Over 40 businesses and individuals added further support as hole sponsors. The tournament raised $6,500 to support youth from St Elizabeth Seton Parish and other areas to attend the St. Joseph Camp at Mormon Lake, Arizona. This is the most support provided by any Knights of Columbus Council in Arizona.
- Council 12144 established a Cor (Latin for heart) men’s group in the parish. Led by Deacon Jeff Arner, the group meets in Seton Hall on Saturday mornings at 6:30 am. Cor exists to form and strengthen Catholic men in faith and virtue as missionary disciples by drawing them into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer, formation, and fraternity.
- Council 12144, under the guidance of Membership Director Dan Kudulis, recruited 20 new members, 222% of the goal set for it by the State Council.
In addition, the Council’s District Deputy, Dan Kudulis, was recognized as the District Deputy of the Year at the State Convention. While Dan has other Councils as part of his responsibilities, Council 12144 is proud that it could contribute to Dan’s achievements to be recognized as the outstanding District Deputy out of the 34 District Deputies in the State.
Under the leadership of Grand Knight Robin Clark, St Elizabeth Seton Knights of Columbus Council 12144 is empowering the men of our parish to live their faith at home, in the parish, at work, and in their community. Its principles are charity, unity, and fraternity. It is proud to be a contributing member in the family of St. Elizabeth Seton organizations and will strive to continue the good works achieved this year.
