Grand Knight’s Message May/June 2020
As I remain home, socially distanced from my families, church, Council and personal, I have time to reflect on the wonderful world surrounding us all. My thanks to the intrepid members of the cemetery committee for their ideas and implementation of the Evergreen Memorials project - it is good that we remember those no longer with us. On April 16, the Supreme Council hosted the online Exemplification of Charity Unity and Fraternity for new and current members to advance to the third degree of our order. It was a great way to socially distance while continuing the work of Father Michael McGivney to assist all brother Knights. I urge all to keep safe and assist your fellow beings as best you can, keeping in mind Christ’s answer to “who is my neighbor?” David Keating, GK Vivat Jesus
Grand Knight’s Message March/April 2020
What to write about - so many thoughts. Well, to keep it close to home, with my work this week for a client of several years - an avowed conservative, the purpose of the Knights was brought up in a conversation. I explained our support for pro-life causes and the topic of Planned Parenthood came up. I mentioned their founder, Margaret Sanger was an avowed racist who wanted to eliminate “unfit people” and her definition of that. Later, I was able to give her a history of Planned Parenthood and she quickly realized she was an “unfit person” according to Sanger. The upshot is that is never hurts to speak the truth. Knowledge is precious. With love for all as our Lord asks, David Keating, Grand Knight
Grand Knight’s Message Jan/Feb 2020
Once again Santa graced us with his presence at our Breakfast with Santa event. My thanks to the jolly old Elf for making the children happy. As we enter the Advent season and admire the decorations, notice the garlands which this year are lighted thanks to the donations of parishioners and Knights with electrical prowess. Our thanks to those who made this upgrade possible. Looking forward to a new year we will once again sponsor a free throw competition at the Council and District levels and of course the always delicious lenten fish dinners. May Christ's peace and joy come to all. David Keating, GK
Grand Knight’s Message Nov/Dec 2019
Political turmoil worldwide, unending warfare, the continuing abortion debate - the list goes on and on. Events like the recent rosary congress are, I believe, the way to seek the answers needed for our weary world. Unless the people come back to the ways of Christ there will be no true and lasting peace. As I look forward to the fast approaching holiday season, optimism remains high for a joyful thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year and a renewed opportunity to help our fellow beings in many ways with the true meaning of following the ways of Jesus.
Vivat Jesus, David Keating, GK Hanover Council 871
Vivat Jesus, David Keating, GK Hanover Council 871
Grand Knight’s Message Sept/Oct 2019
Well, it’s time for cliches, another summer gone and students back in school. Now that's out of the way, but we Knights are looking forward to a busy fall season: • Blue Mass in remembrance and honor of our first responders, living and gone, Sept 11. • Fifth Sunday K of C Breakfast, Sept. 29, St. Joseph Social Hall, 8-10:30 AM. • Soccer Challenge penalty kick contest for kids 9-14, Sept. 21, 1 PM, Utz Soccer Fields. • Apple Harvest Festival K of C Apple Daiquiri Stand, the first two weekends in October. So any young adult men complaining of boredom – come join the Knights and find relief.
David Keating, GK, Hanover Council #871
David Keating, GK, Hanover Council #871
Grand Knight’s Message July/Aug 2019
From our Grand Knight, Dave Keating
Greetings to my brother Knights and fellow parishioners of St Joseph’s. My name is David Keating, Jr.
and I have assumed the role of Grand Knight of the Hanover Council 871.
My family has been a member of St. Joseph Parish for 41 years during which my wife Rosy and I
raised three children of whom I am very proud. I am also very proud of the generous people of St.
Joseph’s who support the efforts of the council to fund our Pro Life activities.
With love for all, Vivat Jesus.
Some Final Thoughts from our Immediate Past Grand Knight, Rick Harmer
When I am asked “Why should I join the Knights of Columbus?” I always tell folks that one of the
main benefits of joining the Knights is the opportunity to participate in the Knights of Columbus
Insurance Program. We are very lucky to have Ken Zinn who is a member of Saint Joseph and our
Knights of Columbus Council as our Knights of Columbus Insurance Agent. My wife and I have met
with him on more than one occasion and have nothing but great things to say about Ken. When we
met with him, we explained where we are at and what we are doing to prepare for the future. He
gave us suggestions and some things to consider on ways we could improve our plan. He answered
all our questions and did not try to talk us into buying anything. I highly recommend that all
Knights take advantage of this benefit and schedule an appointment with Ken.
I want to thank all of you for supporting the Knights. I also want to thank my brother Knights for your support and all
that you have done for the Knights and Saint Joseph Parish. Finally, I am asking all men in our parish who are not members
of the Knights of Columbus, to prayerfully consider joining. May the peace of the Lord be with you.
Rick Harmer, Past Grand Knight
Editor’s Note: Rick Harmer has served our council well as our Grand Knight during the past three years. We are deeply
indebted to Rick for his commitment and noble leadership. Please take time to thank Rick next time you see him.
Greetings to my brother Knights and fellow parishioners of St Joseph’s. My name is David Keating, Jr.
and I have assumed the role of Grand Knight of the Hanover Council 871.
My family has been a member of St. Joseph Parish for 41 years during which my wife Rosy and I
raised three children of whom I am very proud. I am also very proud of the generous people of St.
Joseph’s who support the efforts of the council to fund our Pro Life activities.
With love for all, Vivat Jesus.
Some Final Thoughts from our Immediate Past Grand Knight, Rick Harmer
When I am asked “Why should I join the Knights of Columbus?” I always tell folks that one of the
main benefits of joining the Knights is the opportunity to participate in the Knights of Columbus
Insurance Program. We are very lucky to have Ken Zinn who is a member of Saint Joseph and our
Knights of Columbus Council as our Knights of Columbus Insurance Agent. My wife and I have met
with him on more than one occasion and have nothing but great things to say about Ken. When we
met with him, we explained where we are at and what we are doing to prepare for the future. He
gave us suggestions and some things to consider on ways we could improve our plan. He answered
all our questions and did not try to talk us into buying anything. I highly recommend that all
Knights take advantage of this benefit and schedule an appointment with Ken.
I want to thank all of you for supporting the Knights. I also want to thank my brother Knights for your support and all
that you have done for the Knights and Saint Joseph Parish. Finally, I am asking all men in our parish who are not members
of the Knights of Columbus, to prayerfully consider joining. May the peace of the Lord be with you.
Rick Harmer, Past Grand Knight
Editor’s Note: Rick Harmer has served our council well as our Grand Knight during the past three years. We are deeply
indebted to Rick for his commitment and noble leadership. Please take time to thank Rick next time you see him.
Grand Knight’s Message May/June 2019
Some folks have asked me “What do the Knights do for the parish?” Hopefully, our Newsletter has provided the answer to this question. If not, I will mention two projects the Knights are currently working on for the parish. The first project we are currently working on is completing the list of improvements Father Lyons has asked us to make on the pavilion and the ground surrounding it. The list includes cutting down all the dead trees behind the church by the pavilion. When Gloria Ernst retired, we were asked to take over her duties with our cemetery. Our primary assignment is to assist folks who want to purchase a burial plot in our cemetery. We are currently making a list of everyone who is buried in the cemetery as well as their location. Once we have completed this task, we will be setting up a database that will allow us to quickly identify where a person is buried as well as quickly identify plots that are still available. Our goal is to complete both projects by early summer. Once again, these are just two of the many things we do for our parish. This will be my last article as your Grand Knight. The last 3 years have gone by much too quickly. I want to thank you for all that you have done to support the Knights. I also want to thank all my brother Knights for your support and all the hard work you have done. Growing up I always played basketball against guys older and better than me. This helped me become a better player. When I joined the Knights, I was joining a team of men who were much better Catholics than me and they have inspired me to become a better Catholic. I still have a long way to go. However, I know that they will continue to support me and help me grow to be a better Catholic. If you are not a Knight, I hope you will prayerfully consider joining. If you have any questions about the Knights you may send me an email at [email protected] or call me at 410-215-0101. Be Bold, Be Catholic Rick Harmer, Grand Knight, Hanover Council 871
Grand Knight’s Message Mar/Apr 2019
To qualify for the Boston Marathon, I had to run a marathon on a Boston Qualifier course in 4 hours or less. The first time I tried to qualify I ran the marathon in 4 hours and 1 minute. Although I was disappointed I thought it would be easy to improve my time by 1 minute. After several more attempts during which my time got worse, I decided I needed to make some major changes. I changed my diet, my training plan and started running more with friends who were better than me. My friends helped me stick to the new training plan and ultimately qualify for the Boston Marathon. After running the Boston Marathon 2 times, I slipped back into my old habits and never came close to qualifying for it again. I have found my journey to become a good Christian is a lot like my journey trying to qualify for the Boston Marathon. Every time I make changes to help me become a better person I end up slipping back into old habits. In Matthew Kelly’s Becoming the Best Version of Yourself he explains that our lives change when our habits change. Even though I know that is true, breaking old habits is hard to do. The only way I have been able to do that is to surround myself with people who can help me become the best version of myself. The Catholic Church through the coaching and guidance I receive from the Priests and the Knights of Columbus have helped me improve. Although I have a long way to go on my journey, I know I can count on the Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus to always be there to help me on my journey. I want to thank all the Knights, Priests and parishioners of Saint Joseph Parish who have helped me on my journey. I have a long way to go but I know with your support and guidance I will get better. I am asking all men to prayerfully consider joining the Knights of Columbus. I need all the help I can get to help me become a better Christian. If you have questions about the Knights of Columbus or want to join, please call me at 410-215-0101 or send me an email at [email protected]
Grand Knight’s Message Jan/Feb 2019
Many members of the Knights of Columbus are very active in other organizations, like the Lions Club, that provide valuable services to our community. Recently I saw an article in our bulletin about a meeting at our Parish for cancer survivors. After seeing the article I immediately thought about an organization I am involved with that helps cancer survivors. I am currently working at the Hanover YMCA and just got certified as an instructor for the YMCA’s LIVESTRONG program for cancer survivors. The LIVESTRONG program is a 12-week research-based program that supports adult cancer survivors in regaining their physical, emotional and spiritual strength. The program is conducted in a small group environment that includes individualized attention for each participant. The program is free and includes: • Free family membership during the program • Two 90-minute sessions each week • Small group setting with multiple certified instructors • Access to all YMCA membership programs, such as group exercise classes, the Wellness Center and indoor pools. • Free Lifetime Membership to the Hanover Area YMCA. A pamphlet on the program, “Survive and Thrive” is in the pamphlet rack in the back of the church across from the restrooms by the Library. The next program in Hanover and Littlestown begins on February 4 and ends on April 22, 2019. The next program in York and Dover begins on January 7 and ends on March 27, 2019. For more information on the program, the Hanover and Littlestown contact is Mary Wells (a member here at Saint Joseph). You can contact Mary by calling 717 632-8211, ext. 405 or via email at [email protected]. For the York YMCA Branch located on Newberry St., the Southern YMCA Branch located in Shrewsbury, the Eastern Branch located on East Market St. and the Bob Hoffman YMCA Dover Branch, the contact is Heather Moore. You can contact Heather via phone by calling 717 843-7884, ext. 248 or via email at [email protected]. As I become aware of other organizations that my brother Knights are involved with, I will include them in my message as well for the benefits they provide. We have a number of Knights who are also very active in other community organizations. Our Council is always looking for new members who are looking for new opportunities to serve others. If you are such a person, I ask that you prayerfully consider joining the Knights of Columbus. Rick Harmer, Grand K
Grand Knight’s Message Nov/Dec 2018
Recently I received a video that was put together by the Cleveland Clinic. The title of the video is: “Empathy: The Human Connection to Patient Care.” The video starts with the following quote from Henry David Thoreau: “Could a greater miracle take place than for us to look through each other’s eyes for an instant.” The video shows patients in various sad situations like a person who has just been told they have cancer, parents whose son is on life support, a mother whose baby was born prematurely and she is unable to hold him, a father whose daughter is getting married in a couple of days and he is determined to get out of the hospital to be at her wedding, etc. The video ends with the following: “If we could stand in someone else’s shoes, hear what they hear, see what they see and feel what they feel, would you treat them differently?” My answer to this question is yes. However, I do not always try to walk in the other person’s shoes. The Knights of Columbus have helped me try and do better. The members of the Hanover Council 871 are the most caring and compassionate group of men I have ever been around. Trying to become a good Christian is the hardest thing I have ever done. Without the Knights, the struggle would be even harder. I invite all men who may also be struggling on this journey to prayerfully consider joining the Knights of Columbus. I have found that whether training to run a marathon, working on a major project at home or trying to become a good Christian, it is much easier to do it with friends. If you have questions or want more information on the Knights, please call me at 410 215-0101 or send me an email at [email protected]. May grace, mercy, and peace be with you today, Rick Harmer, Grand Knight, Hanover Council 871
Grand Knight’s Message Sept/Oct 2018
When my wife and I moved to Hanover from New Windsor, Maryland I was a little sad because I was leaving Saint John Catholic Church in Westminster and the Westminster Knights of Columbus Council and starting over at Saint Joseph and with the Hanover Council. I thought the priests at Saint Johns were great and I really enjoyed my time with the Westminster Knights. That sadness soon turned into joy. I think the Priests at Saint Joseph are outstanding and they have inspired me to try to become a better person. I believe I can talk to any of our priest about anything and believe that they will provide me with sound spiritual guidance on any problems I may be having. As much as I loved being a part of the Westminster Knights, I enjoy even more being a part of the Hanover Council. Our council is not as big as the Westminster Council. However, in this case size does not matter. Our council is full of men who go above and beyond the call of duty doing things that help people in need. Rather than list all the names of my brother Knights let me say they are truly the most outstanding group of men I have ever been around. It is an honor to be associated with this group of men. In closing, I want to invite any man looking for ways to grow your faith and work on projects that help improve other peoples’ lives to please consider joining the Knights of Columbus. We meet the second Tuesday of each month in the pavilion behind the church during good weather and in the multi-purpose room in the church when we do not meet in the pavilion. Our meetings begin by praying the Rosary at 6:45. We start the meeting at 7:00 PM and try to end the meetings by 8:00 PM. If you are interested in joining the Knights, have ideas on things we can do to help others, or need more information on the Knights of Columbus activities, please see our website at http://kofc871.weebly.- com/. You may also contact us via email at [email protected]. Finally, you may also contact me at my email address: [email protected] or call me on my cell phone at 410-215-0101.
If you prefer to meet with me privately, please contact me to set up a meeting.
May the peace of the Lord be with you. Rick Harmer, Grand Knight Hanover Council #871
If you prefer to meet with me privately, please contact me to set up a meeting.
May the peace of the Lord be with you. Rick Harmer, Grand Knight Hanover Council #871
Grand Knight’s Message July/August 2018
The Meditations for May 30th 2018 release of The Word Among Us is the following old Chinese proverb: “If you want happiness for an hour, take a nap. If you want happiness for a day, go fishing. If you want happiness for a year, inherit a fortune. If you want happiness for a lifetime, help somebody.” In the Meditations for May 31st is the following: “Has this ever happened to you? You get inspired to help a sick friend, and you head out. You arrive with a latte, a Rosary, and eager plans to lift his spirits. But during your visit, you realize that your own heart is feeling lighter. You came to bless someone, and you ended up being blessed as well.” The Knights of Columbus does various events during the year, like the baby bottle campaign, the Sunday breakfasts, etc. to raise money for various organizations. For example, we have raised money for the new playground equipment for Saint Joseph School, made donations to Saint Joseph School and Delone Catholic High School, etc. Each year we get requests from more organizations and individuals in need of financial support. In order to meet the increasing demands, we need your help. You can help by attending our monthly breakfasts, helping to serve the breakfasts, and helping us sell apple daiquiris at the Apple Harvest Festival in October. You do not have to be a Knight to help us with our fund raising events. We always include the list of upcoming events in our bi-monthly newsletter that we insert in the bulletin. Please contact us if you are able to help with any of the events.
Grand Knight’s Message May/June 2018
In the March 2018 edition of the Columbia magazine is an article on the Rosary Priest, Venerable Father Patrick Peyton. Father Peyton wrote, “My work is to urge families throughout the world to pray united as families so that they can experience the family rosary for what it is, a powerful prayer to bring joy, peace and unity to troubled homes.”
There have been many stories written about miraculous recoveries from life-threatening diseases after praying for Holy Mary to intervene. Father Peyton experienced this first hand after being diagnosed with an advanced case of tuberculosis in 1938. Doctors did not think he would survive. Father Peyton prayed to the Virgin Mary asking her to intervene. His prayers were answered as the tuberculosis disappeared. Although the doctors could not explain it, Father Peyton knew that it was the Virgin Mary who interceded for him.
The Knights of Columbus have been praying the rosary before the 5 PM Mass on the fifth Saturday of the month when there is one with the intention of protection for both the unborn and our troops. We will be praying the Rosary starting at 4:15 PM in 2018 on: April 28th, July 28th, September 29th and December 29th. I am asking you to join us on these dates and pray the Rosary with us. You do not have to be a Knight. We are praying the Rosary not only representing the Knights but also representing the family of Saint Joseph Parish. Please prayerfully consider joining us because the unborn and our troops need our prayers and Holy Mary’s intervention now more than ever.
For information on the Knights of Columbus activities, please see our website at http://kofc871.weebly.com You may also contact us via email at [email protected].
Rick Harmer,
Grand Knight, Hanover Council #871
Grand Knight’s Message March/April 2018
I really enjoy reading anything written by Matthew Kelly. He is the founder of Dynamic
Catholic (dynamiccatholic.com). In addition to writing books, he has also
produced several inspirational CDs/DVDs and tours the country leading seminars on
becoming a better Catholic. Following is part of his message from one of his daily
messages during Lent last year on what God is looking for in a person to do His Will.
“When God, you know, looks through resumes looking for someone to send out on a
mission, what does he look for? You know, he doesn't look for education, he's not
interested in where you went to school. He doesn't look necessarily for experience,
it doesn't necessarily matter what you've done in the past. God doesn't necessarily
look for who do you know or who are your contacts or that kind of thing.
You see, when you look at the people God has used throughout history, I mean,
people that God has sent out on a great mission, a phenomenal mission, to do incredible things, he almost
never picks the people you would expect him to pick. You know? He almost never picks the most likely people.
He almost never picks the people in positions of power and authority. He almost never picks the people
who are most educated, or best educated. So what does God look for in a resume?
You know what I think when God flips resumes looking for someone to send out on a great mission, He's only
looking for one thing. It's a little bit like the loaves and the fishes, you know? He’ll bring everything else,
just bring a little bit you've got, he’ll bring everything else.
What is the one thing that God looks for in a resume? Availability. That’s all he wants from you. Availability.
He wants you to make yourself available to him. What type of people does God use? He uses the people that
make themselves available.”
Saint Joseph’s is full of groups (Knights of Columbus, Fun(d) Committee, Holy Name Society, etc.) and people
(our Priests and Deacons, etc.) who have made themselves available to do God’s Will. If you are not currently
involved in helping do God’s Will, I ask that you prayerfully consider joining the Knights, the Fun(d)
Committee, Holy Name Society, etc. No experience or special education necessary.
For information on the Knights of Columbus activities, please see our website at
http://kofc871.weebly.com/. You may also contact us via email at [email protected].
Rick Harmer, Grand Knight, Hanover Council #871
I really enjoy reading anything written by Matthew Kelly. He is the founder of Dynamic
Catholic (dynamiccatholic.com). In addition to writing books, he has also
produced several inspirational CDs/DVDs and tours the country leading seminars on
becoming a better Catholic. Following is part of his message from one of his daily
messages during Lent last year on what God is looking for in a person to do His Will.
“When God, you know, looks through resumes looking for someone to send out on a
mission, what does he look for? You know, he doesn't look for education, he's not
interested in where you went to school. He doesn't look necessarily for experience,
it doesn't necessarily matter what you've done in the past. God doesn't necessarily
look for who do you know or who are your contacts or that kind of thing.
You see, when you look at the people God has used throughout history, I mean,
people that God has sent out on a great mission, a phenomenal mission, to do incredible things, he almost
never picks the people you would expect him to pick. You know? He almost never picks the most likely people.
He almost never picks the people in positions of power and authority. He almost never picks the people
who are most educated, or best educated. So what does God look for in a resume?
You know what I think when God flips resumes looking for someone to send out on a great mission, He's only
looking for one thing. It's a little bit like the loaves and the fishes, you know? He’ll bring everything else,
just bring a little bit you've got, he’ll bring everything else.
What is the one thing that God looks for in a resume? Availability. That’s all he wants from you. Availability.
He wants you to make yourself available to him. What type of people does God use? He uses the people that
make themselves available.”
Saint Joseph’s is full of groups (Knights of Columbus, Fun(d) Committee, Holy Name Society, etc.) and people
(our Priests and Deacons, etc.) who have made themselves available to do God’s Will. If you are not currently
involved in helping do God’s Will, I ask that you prayerfully consider joining the Knights, the Fun(d)
Committee, Holy Name Society, etc. No experience or special education necessary.
For information on the Knights of Columbus activities, please see our website at
http://kofc871.weebly.com/. You may also contact us via email at [email protected].
Rick Harmer, Grand Knight, Hanover Council #871
Grand Knight News Jan/Feb 2018
It is hard to believe that it is 2018 already. Life today seems to me to be a lot more challenging and dangerous than when I was growing up. We never locked our doors and parents never worried about their children’s safety when they sent them out to play each day. Today’s news is filled with stories of violence, sexual abuse, people being killed because of their religious belief, natural disasters that wipe out entire communities, etc. Throughout history the Catholic Church has always stepped up and did whatever it could to help those in need. The Catholic Church feeds more people, educates more people and provides health care to those in need more than any other organization in the world. Once again the Catholic Church is being called upon to help raise funds to rebuild the predominately Christian town of Karamles (It is one of the Nineveh Plains towns east of Mosul that fell to IS as it advanced across northern Iraq in August 2014.), as well as support persecuted Christians and those in their care. All Councils of the Knights of Columbus have been asked to hold a fund raiser for the Knights of Columbus Christian Refugee Relief Fund. Hanover Council 871 will donate all the money it makes at the January 28, 2018 breakfast to this fund. Please consider joining us for breakfast on that date and help us raise money for this very important fund. We work very hard to serve you a delicious breakfast for a fair price. We split all money we raise at these breakfasts with Saint Joseph Church. Thus part of the money is used to support church activities and part is used to support a number of Catholic Charities. Together, we can continue to change the future of Christianity! Together we can continue to make a difference. Please help us make this breakfast a success by inviting your friends, family and neighbors to join us on January 28. For information on the Knights of Columbus activities, please see our website at http://kofc871.weebly.com/. You may also contact us via email at [email protected]. “The good that we do spills over into the lives of others.” Carrie Gress, Taken from Nudging Conversions.
Be Bold, Be Catholic Rick Harmer, Grand Knight for Hanover Council 871
Be Bold, Be Catholic Rick Harmer, Grand Knight for Hanover Council 871
Grand Knight News Nov/Dec
In our last Knight News, we reported that a proposal to change our council name from Hanover Council 871 to "Monsignor Robert Gribbin Council 871” would be sent to members with the upcoming dues notices. That
proposal has since been withdrawn, so for now our council name will remain Hanover Council 871. There are strong feelings on both sides of this issue. If you would like to voice your opinion on changing our council name please send us an email at [email protected].
All my life I have been involved in sports as a player, coach and spectator. I have learned some valuable life lessons from sports. For example, when I was a head soccer, basketball and track coach at Liberty High School I learned that good assistant coaches were extremely valuable in making the team the best it could be.
I relate this experience to the Catholic Church. Jesus is the Head Coach and the Priests are His assistants. We are very blessed at Saint Joseph to have four outstanding Priests to coach us and help us become the best we can be. The members of the church are the players and in order to be the best we can be we must listen to our Priests and do our best to follow and do the things they ask us to do. We must attend Mass weekly, not just on special occasions like Christmas and Easter.
My least favorite role is being a spectator. In sports we have no choice as health issues and the natural aging process eliminates some of the roles we can perform. That is not true in the game of life as there is always something we can do. For Saint Joseph to become the best church it can be, we all need to pitch in and help. The Knights of Columbus is one of the many organizations at Saint Joseph that is committed to working with the Priests and do whatever we can to help make Saint Joseph the best church it can be. We currently have more things we can do than people to help complete the work. I am asking all men at Saint Joseph to prayerfully consider joining the Knights and help us complete these tasks. I am also asking all Knights that have been inactive to please become active again. For information on the Knights of Columbus activities, please see our website at http://kofc871.weebly.com/.
You may also email us at [email protected]. “God gives us relationships to help us become the best-version-of-ourselves. He gives us relationships so that we can help each other get to heaven.” Taken from Dynamic Catholic’s DECISION POINT
Be Bold, Be Catholic
Rick Harmer, Grand Knight, Hanover Council 871
All my life I have been involved in sports as a player, coach and spectator. I have learned some valuable life lessons from sports. For example, when I was a head soccer, basketball and track coach at Liberty High School I learned that good assistant coaches were extremely valuable in making the team the best it could be.
I relate this experience to the Catholic Church. Jesus is the Head Coach and the Priests are His assistants. We are very blessed at Saint Joseph to have four outstanding Priests to coach us and help us become the best we can be. The members of the church are the players and in order to be the best we can be we must listen to our Priests and do our best to follow and do the things they ask us to do. We must attend Mass weekly, not just on special occasions like Christmas and Easter.
My least favorite role is being a spectator. In sports we have no choice as health issues and the natural aging process eliminates some of the roles we can perform. That is not true in the game of life as there is always something we can do. For Saint Joseph to become the best church it can be, we all need to pitch in and help. The Knights of Columbus is one of the many organizations at Saint Joseph that is committed to working with the Priests and do whatever we can to help make Saint Joseph the best church it can be. We currently have more things we can do than people to help complete the work. I am asking all men at Saint Joseph to prayerfully consider joining the Knights and help us complete these tasks. I am also asking all Knights that have been inactive to please become active again. For information on the Knights of Columbus activities, please see our website at http://kofc871.weebly.com/.
You may also email us at [email protected]. “God gives us relationships to help us become the best-version-of-ourselves. He gives us relationships so that we can help each other get to heaven.” Taken from Dynamic Catholic’s DECISION POINT
Be Bold, Be Catholic
Rick Harmer, Grand Knight, Hanover Council 871
Grand Knight News Sept/Oct
FROM THE GRAND KNIGHT: A lot of changes have taken place during the last month with our Hanover
Council #871. Since the Home Association closed it’s doors on July 31, 2017 we will no longer have any
meetings at the Home Association. All our Council membership meetings, which are on the second Tuesday of
every month, will now be held in the multi-purpose room at Saint Joseph School. We pray the Rosary at 6:45
and start our meeting at 7:00 PM.
At our last meeting on August 8, 2017 a proposal was made to change the name of our Council from Hanover
Council 871 to “Monsignor Robert Gribbin Council #871”. After much discussion, a motion was made and
approved to mail the proposal to all members with their dues notice and include the date on which we will vote
for or against this name change. We will vote on the proposal at Saint Joseph School multi-purpose room
during the first council meeting that occurs 30 days after the dues notices are mailed. You must be at the
meeting and a Council 871 member for your vote to count.
We also discussed at our last meeting to host a K of C breakfast at St. Joseph Church every month instead of
just on those months that have 5 Sundays. We raised $3,569 for the playground equipment for the Saint
Joseph School from these breakfasts so far. By increasing the number of breakfasts, we will be able to do
more for Saint Joseph and the many charities to which we donate. In order to do this we need your help. It
has been increasingly more difficult to get enough help to do these breakfasts. We need cooks, people to bus
tables, people to serve food, etc. Please prayerfully considering helping with these breakfasts. We hope to
start the monthly breakfasts in January 2018. More information will appear in upcoming newsletters.
Sept 5 - Directors Planning Meeting at Dave Zinn’s home, 31 Cornell Drive Hanover, PA, 7 PM
Sept 11 - Blue Mass at St. Josephs Church, Hanover, 7 PM
Sept 12 - Council Meeting in Multi-purpose room St. Joseph School, 6:45 Rosary, mtg. at 7PM
Sept 21 - 4th Degree Meeting Abbottstown, Rosary 7:45 meeting after
Sept 30 - Local Soccer Challenge at UTZ Field from 2 to 4 PM
Sept 29 - Crosses Up on church lawn - 40 days for life. 3PM
Oct 03 - Planning Meeting at Dave Keating’s home, 2305 Black Rock Road Hanover, PA, 7 PM
Oct 04 - Apple Harvest set up at South Mountain Fairground, 9:00 am -12:00 noon
Oct 7 & 8, 14 & 15 - Apple Harvest. Contact Dave Zinn if you’d like to help 717-965-5975.
Oct 10 - Council Meeting in Multi-purpose room, St. Joseph School, 6:45 Rosary, mtg. at 7PM
Oct 19 4th degree meeting McSherrystown, Rosary 7:45 PM; meeting afterwards
Oct 27 Crosses removed from church lawn 3PM
Oct 28 Rosary 4:15 before 5PM Mass
Oct. 29 Pancake Breakfast, St Joseph Church Social Hall, 8:00 - 11:00 AM
GRAND KNIGHTS MESSAGE - Posted February 2017
The Knights of Columbus are looking for new members to help us continue to put on events that enable us to donate to organizations that represent Catholic values. Some of these organizations are ; Tender Care Pregnancy Center, The Gary Sinise Foundation, The Military Chaplains Fund, St. Joseph School ( we are currently raising money for playground equipment for the new school). We also held a Soccer Challenge and a Basketball Free throw. These competitions are for children ages 9-12. These are just a few of the charities and events we are involved in.
Your council is in need of more good Catholic men to help run these events and more so your council can do even more for St. Joseph’s, other charities and families . We are not asking for your money. What we need is your time ! We will take whatever time you can give your parish. We usually have 1 or 2 events each month. An example of what is needed is, we do a breakfast on the 5th Sunday of months having same. We recently started a 2 shift team system each approx.. 3 hours . We need men to cook , serve, bus tables, cashiers, & run the dish washer. All proceeds from the breakfasts are currently being used for the new playground for the Grandview School Campus.
We have a business meeting the 2nd Tuesday each month to discuss potential projects and to ensure we have sufficient help for the upcoming event(s). You must be a member to attend these meetings you DO NOT need to be a Knight to help. We will be conducting a recruitment drive after each Mass on March 25,26. We will be in the Narthex to answer any questions you may have.
I hope you will prayerfully consider joining the Knights of Columbus.
Be Bold Be Catholic..
Rick Harmer Grand Knight
Deputy Grand Knights Message
Your council continues to move forward. The council is moving closer to the church both with helping hands and with fund raising. Father McGivney envisioned the Knights being the right arm of the parish Priest.
Recently I read another DGK’s message and I feel these words are worth repeating and giving prayerful thought.
I could go to church tomorrow , but
I should go to confession this month , but
Reading Scripture is something I should do , but
I really want to get to a council meeting , but
I want to spend more time with my wife and kids , but
The Lenten Dinners are coming up and I could help , but
I could help at a pancake breakfast, but
The list is endless. We all struggle with the buts. It takes prayer and determination to overcome the buts. We must reflect on our goals as Knights “ Charity-Unity-Fraternity – Patriotism” We must also reflect on our motto “ In Service To ONE –In Service To ALL”
“If you want the best the world has to offer , offer the world your best”- Neale Donald Walsch
Wilbur Smith Deputy Grand Knight
March 10,24,31-April 07 Lenten Dinners / March 17 St. Patricks Dinner Dance
Apr 01 Mens Conference / Apr 15 ARC collection Hanover MK/Apr 22 Memorial Mass/ Apr. 23 Serving Ladies Tea/Apr 29 Rosary 4:15PM before Mass / April 30 Pancake Breakfast
Your council continues to move forward. The council is moving closer to the church both with helping hands and with fund raising. Father McGivney envisioned the Knights being the right arm of the parish Priest.
Recently I read another DGK’s message and I feel these words are worth repeating and giving prayerful thought.
I could go to church tomorrow , but
I should go to confession this month , but
Reading Scripture is something I should do , but
I really want to get to a council meeting , but
I want to spend more time with my wife and kids , but
The Lenten Dinners are coming up and I could help , but
I could help at a pancake breakfast, but
The list is endless. We all struggle with the buts. It takes prayer and determination to overcome the buts. We must reflect on our goals as Knights “ Charity-Unity-Fraternity – Patriotism” We must also reflect on our motto “ In Service To ONE –In Service To ALL”
“If you want the best the world has to offer , offer the world your best”- Neale Donald Walsch
Wilbur Smith Deputy Grand Knight
March 10,24,31-April 07 Lenten Dinners / March 17 St. Patricks Dinner Dance
Apr 01 Mens Conference / Apr 15 ARC collection Hanover MK/Apr 22 Memorial Mass/ Apr. 23 Serving Ladies Tea/Apr 29 Rosary 4:15PM before Mass / April 30 Pancake Breakfast
Grand Knight's Message - Posted January 2017
With the arrival of 2017 I started reflecting on all the things that happened in 2016 that I am thankful for. I am thankful for all; your support for the various KofC activities during the year. From the change you donated to the baby bottles we were able to donate $1000.00 to Tender Care Pregnancy Center, $5100.00 to Undefeated Courage for a Mobile Ultra Sound Van to serve York & Adams Counties. A free will offering was collected at the Blue Mass. $175.00 was donated to the Gary Sinise Foundation that supports our veterans and first responders. The Veterans Dance was a great time in addition to the $630.00 raised for the Military Chaplains Fund. These are 4 of the 20 plus organizations Council 871 supported in 2016. The Knights greatly appreciate all you did to support our activities. With your help we hope to do even more for our parish and Catholic Charities.
If there are more thing you believe the Knights could do please contact me or any member of the council with your suggestions. On behalf of ALL THE Knights, we THANK you again for all your support.
Be Bold Be Catholic
Rick Harmer
Grand Knight
Council 871
Deputy Grand Knight’s Message
I also agree with our Grand Knight Rick, 2016 was another exceptional year for YOUR council 871. YOUR council has a small core a very Dedicated Catholic men. Many of the programs your council participates in continue to grow each year. In addition to the programs Rick has mentioned we have partnered with many parish ministries @ Ablaze Youth , Fun Committee , CCW , HNS and others.
The M/C Rocker raised approximately $1000.00 for playground equipment. The M/C was won by a lady from Spring Grove. She purchased her ticket at Goofy’s Bike Night last September.
I’m sorry to say that there will NOT be a Valentines Dance this year. We’ve elected to have a Spring Dance ( Fling ) on May the 20th in the social hall. Be alert for more information in the near future.
Council Members voted to meet in the Bishop Daly Room once every quarter. The 1st meeting there will be Tuesday February 14th – Rosary 6:45 PM – Meeting 7:05 PM. There are several reasons for this change. This location will be more convenient for those having difficulty with stairs and downtown parking. It is also more convenient for our Priests . If night driving is an issue please contact GK Rick or me and we will arraign for carpooling to the meetings / events.
I earlier mentioned YOUR council has a small core of dedicated Knights !
WERE YOU THERE ? - WILL YOU BE THERE IN THERE IN 2017 ?
Please continue to Pray for our Veterans and First Responders
Blessed Are The Peace Keepers for They Shall be Call Children of GOD.
Wilbur Smith
Deputy Grand Knight
If there are more thing you believe the Knights could do please contact me or any member of the council with your suggestions. On behalf of ALL THE Knights, we THANK you again for all your support.
Be Bold Be Catholic
Rick Harmer
Grand Knight
Council 871
Deputy Grand Knight’s Message
I also agree with our Grand Knight Rick, 2016 was another exceptional year for YOUR council 871. YOUR council has a small core a very Dedicated Catholic men. Many of the programs your council participates in continue to grow each year. In addition to the programs Rick has mentioned we have partnered with many parish ministries @ Ablaze Youth , Fun Committee , CCW , HNS and others.
The M/C Rocker raised approximately $1000.00 for playground equipment. The M/C was won by a lady from Spring Grove. She purchased her ticket at Goofy’s Bike Night last September.
I’m sorry to say that there will NOT be a Valentines Dance this year. We’ve elected to have a Spring Dance ( Fling ) on May the 20th in the social hall. Be alert for more information in the near future.
Council Members voted to meet in the Bishop Daly Room once every quarter. The 1st meeting there will be Tuesday February 14th – Rosary 6:45 PM – Meeting 7:05 PM. There are several reasons for this change. This location will be more convenient for those having difficulty with stairs and downtown parking. It is also more convenient for our Priests . If night driving is an issue please contact GK Rick or me and we will arraign for carpooling to the meetings / events.
I earlier mentioned YOUR council has a small core of dedicated Knights !
WERE YOU THERE ? - WILL YOU BE THERE IN THERE IN 2017 ?
Please continue to Pray for our Veterans and First Responders
Blessed Are The Peace Keepers for They Shall be Call Children of GOD.
Wilbur Smith
Deputy Grand Knight