What the Knights of Columbus is
The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic fraternal service organization founded in 1882 by Blessed Michael McGivney, a young parish priest in New Haven, Connecticut. He wanted to keep Catholic men close to their faith and provide for the widows and orphans of working families. Today the order has grown into a worldwide brotherhood of nearly two million members organized into local councils based at parishes.
The order rests on four principles: charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. In practice that means Knights raise money for those in need, support their priests and parishes, pray together, and build lasting friendships rooted in the Catholic faith. As a charity, the Knights of Columbus donates hundreds of millions of dollars and tens of millions of volunteer hours each year, making it one of the most active Catholic charitable organizations in the world.
Joining is one of the most concrete ways for a Catholic man to live out his faith alongside others. If you have searched for the "Knights of Columbus near me," you are really looking for a local council and the men who belong to it — and that is exactly what Catholic Connect helps you find.
Who can join the Knights of Columbus
Membership is open to any practicing Catholic man who is at least 18 years old and in communion with the Holy See. There are no other requirements — councils welcome men of every profession, age, and background. Whether you are a college student, a young father, a retiree, or new to the Church, there is a place for you.
- A practicing Catholic man (in communion with the Holy See)
- Age 18 or older
- Willing to support charity, his parish, and his brother Knights
How to join the Knights of Columbus
There are two simple paths to Knights of Columbus membership, and many men use both — join online to become a member quickly, then connect with a local council for in-person fellowship and service.
1. Join online
Visit kofc.org, choose online membership, and complete the short form. Membership runs about $30 per year, and councils often waive the first year through promotional codes. You become a Knight right away and can take part in the order's programs.
2. Find a local council
A KofC council near you meets at a parish and is where the real fellowship happens — service projects, fish fries, prayer, and friendship. Ask your priest, look for the Knights at your parish, or use Catholic Connect to find members near you.
Find a KofC council and members near you
Catholic Connect is built to turn a search into a real community. Instead of guessing where the nearest council meets, you can find Catholics and Knights near you and start a conversation. Many councils and parish ministries also share their gatherings through the app.
- →Find members near you — discover practicing Catholic men and Knights in your area.
- →Join groups — connect with parish councils and men's faith groups.
- →Attend events — find KofC service projects, fish fries, and parish gatherings.
Knights of Columbus FAQ
Who can join the Knights of Columbus?
Any practicing Catholic man age 18 or older who is in communion with the Holy See is eligible for Knights of Columbus membership. There are no other requirements — councils welcome men of every background, profession, and walk of life.
How much does Knights of Columbus membership cost?
Online membership is roughly $30 per year. Many councils run promotions that waive the first year. Local councils may also have modest dues to support their parish and charitable works.
How do I join the Knights of Columbus online?
Visit kofc.org, choose online membership, complete the form, and pay the annual fee. You will then be invited to connect with a local KofC council near you for in-person fellowship and service.
Is the Knights of Columbus a charity?
Yes. The Knights are one of the largest Catholic charitable organizations in the world, donating hundreds of millions of dollars and tens of millions of volunteer hours every year to parishes, communities, and those in need.