Knights of Columbus (EDW) Arlington, VA: About Fraternity

Knights of Columbus Edward Douglas White Council 2473

About Knighthood
Fraternity; The quality or state of being brothers

Fraternity Charity Premium Insurance

The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic men's fraternal benefit society that was formed to render financial aid to members and their families. Mutual aid and assistance are offered to sick, disabled and needy members and their families. Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious, social welfare, war relief and public relief works.

The history of the Order shows how the foresight of Father Michael J. McGivney, whose cause for sainthood is being investigated by the Vatican, brought about what has become the world's foremost Catholic fraternal benefit society. The Order has helped families obtain economic security and stability through its life insurance, annuity and long-term care programs, and has contributed time and energy worldwide to service in communities.

The roots of the Knights of Columbus were planted in the rich soil that was 19th century North America. Out of the melting pot of the 1880's, our Catholic, family, fraternal, service organization emerged as a beacon of hope for masses.

Whether helping the poor, the sick, the orphaned and the widowed, or supporting their Catholic brothers with their practical or spiritual needs, the first Knights of Columbus stood ready to help.

We invite you to take a tour to learn more about us, our programs and the services offered to our members and their families.

The Knights of Columbus has grown from several members in one council to more than 12,000 councils and 1.6 million members throughout the United States, Canada, the Philippines, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Panama, the Bahamas, the Virgin Islands, Guatemala, Guam and Saipan.

fra·ter·ni·ty

Function: noun

1. a group of people associated or formally organized for a common purpose, interest, or pleasure: as a : a fraternal order. A men's organization formed chiefly for social purposes and having secret rites.

2. the quality or state of being brothers

3. persons of the same class, profession, character, or tastes