History

Knights of Columbus council 5192

Council 5192 was officially instituted on October 1, 1961, in Devine, Texas, in honor of Father Laddie Jasek—hence the name Father Jasek Council 5192.
The council began with 30 charter members and has since grown to 170 active members, a strong and meaningful presence in a community the size of Devine.

Since its founding, the council has remained deeply involved in both parish life and community service. The Knights of Columbus are well recognized and respected in Devine because of our ongoing commitment to faith, service, and brotherhood. Our actions speak to who we are—not just as Knights, but as Catholic men dedicated to making a difference.

🛡️ History of the Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus was founded in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney, a parish priest in New Haven, Connecticut. He envisioned a Catholic fraternal organization that would provide financial protection for widows and orphans—especially for the working-class immigrant families of his time, who often faced poverty and discrimination.

What began as a small group of Catholic men quickly grew into a worldwide brotherhood committed to charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. The Knights of Columbus now includes over 2 million members, with a global impact through service, financial aid, and defense of the faith.

In addition to supporting local parishes, the Knights have led numerous national and global efforts in education, humanitarian aid, and defense of religious freedom.

🕰️ Knights of Columbus Historical Timeline

1882 – Official Founding

  • Incorporated on March 29, 1882 in New Haven, CT, by Fr. Michael J. McGivney.

  • Created to support Catholic families through charitable works and life insurance.

1885 – First Expansion

  • First council outside of New Haven founded in Meriden, Connecticut.

1898 – Insurance Program Established

  • Began offering official sick-benefit and life insurance programs to members.

1905 – National Growth

  • Councils spread across the U.S., including into the Midwest and West Coast.

1909 – International Presence Begins

  • First council outside the U.S. formed in Montreal, Canada.

1917–1918 – World War I Support

  • Opened welfare centers for soldiers with the motto: “Everyone Welcome, Everything Free.”

1924 – Defense of Catholic Education

  • Major role in Pierce v. Society of Sisters, securing the right of Catholic parents to send children to parochial schools.

1920s–1930s – Social Justice Advocacy

  • Combated anti-Catholic and racial prejudice.

  • Sponsored prominent publications on African American and immigrant contributions to American society.

1931 – Great Depression Action

  • Employment bureaus established by local councils placed over 100,000 job-seekers.

1940s–1960s – Post-War Service

  • Supported veterans, expanded educational and charitable programs, and helped build Catholic identity in public life.

1982 – Centennial Milestone

  • Celebrated 100 years of service with over 1.4 million members.

2008 – McGivney Declared Venerable

  • Pope Benedict XVI formally recognizes Fr. McGivney’s heroic virtue.

2020 – Fr. McGivney Beatified

  • Recognized by the Vatican for a miraculous healing attributed to his intercession.

2024 – Modern Mission

  • Over $190 million donated and 47 million volunteer hours logged annually.

  • Insurance coverage exceeds $60 billion.

  • Ongoing efforts in disaster relief, pro-life advocacy, faith formation, and global charity.

✝️ A Legacy of Faith and Service

From their humble beginnings in a Connecticut church basement to becoming one of the world’s largest Catholic service organizations, the Knights of Columbus remain dedicated to building up the Church, supporting families, and helping communities in need.

Their legacy continues through every council, every act of charity, and every member striving to live out the principles of Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism.