Knights inaugurate memorial Mass

The Knights of Columbus in South Glens Falls will soon hold their first annual memorial Mass, one that will also honor their long-time chaplain, Rev. Robert Nugent, who is retiring this year. 

Members of Chapter 11160 will participate in the regular 8 a.m. Mass on Oct. 12 at St. Michael the Archangel Church in South Glens Falls. The intentions of the Mass will honor Knights both living and deceased and the contributions they have made to their Church and community.

The service will be a prelude to a new annual event for the South Glens Falls Knights.
"We rolled this into the standard time," said Grand Knight Laurence Lefebvre of South Glens Falls. "It shows how active our council is to have a Mass [of this type]."

Yearly event

Ultimately, this inaugural observance is intended to set a precedent for years to come.
"It will always be the Sunday before Columbus Day," said Mr. Lefebvre, noting that the organization is named for Christopher Columbus.

Mr. Lefebvre promised that the Knights will organize a remarkable display for parishioners.  He noted that "the very first [of these Masses] will include a full procession with color guard," and that it will truly be impressive to see six knights, "three on each side," arranged at the back of the church.

The Mass will be celebrated by Father Nugent, who has served as chaplain for 25 years.
Father Nugent, a priest for 43 years, downplayed his role with the Knights.
"They are profoundly self-sufficient," he said. "My duties are not anything specific."

Founder's cause

In addition to honoring members of the Knights themselves, the ceremony will offer prayers for the canonization of Rev. Michael J. McGivney, the organization's founder. Prayer cards towards this goal will be given out by the Knights after the ceremony, when refreshments will be served.

Father McGivney founded the Knights of Columbus in New Haven, Conn., in 1882.  Since his tuberculosis-related death in 1890, the organization has grown to nearly two million members worldwide, offering millions of dollars and man-hours to charity. 

Mr. Lefebvre noted that every prayer for Father McGivney will count in the end. Father McGivney's current honors include papal recognition of "heroic virtue," and the distinction "Venerable Servant of God" according to the Knights of Columbus website.

Mr. Lefebvre hopes for a good turnout at the Mass and anticipates the annual celebration will continue for years to come. "It's going to be impressive," he said.

(10/2/08)