We are men who lead, serve, protect and defend, whether we are giving out Coats for Kids, donating wheelchairs, lending a helping hand in disaster relief efforts, supporting local pregnancy centers or providing top-quality financial products.
The Knights and their wives of council 8157 were saluted by 4 members of the 4th degree Honor Guard as they processed to their reserved seating section for Mass at 5pm Saturday June 27th for our regular Corporate Communion. All were dressed in their finery and, for sure, they could be heard throughout the church as they responded to song and prayer. Fr. Christian Casado presided at the Mass with the homily given by Deacon Charlie Ruelas (Incidentally both Knights). After Mass, everyone headed for the “Upper Room” (dining room) at the community center for the annual installation of Officers and award ceremonies. After a bit of mingling about and seating arrangements finalized, Grand Knight Marc Evan gaveled the proceeding to order. The first order of business was the installation of officers for the upcoming fraternal year which begins on July 1, 2026. Bryan Finley, a guest District Deputy, was in charge of the installation process and he got right to it. His first order of business was to invite our Chaplin, Fr. Uche, to offer a prayer. He then proceeded to thank the past officers and challenge the new officers to maintain the high standards expected of all members of the Knights of Columbus. Each new officer was presented with his specific medal signifying his office and usually presented by the wife of the recipient. This was a very solemn affair and everyone responded with reverence and dignity. Once the officer installation was complete, Marc invited everyone to enjoy a Mexican dinner. Before eating, though, Fr. Uche again led the group in prayer thanking God for all the gift He has bestowed upon us, including the food. After dinner the awards part of the evening began; starting with the presentation of scholarships by Peter Perta. Marc explained that our council went over budget this years because we had 7 fabulous candidates who applied for a $1,000.00 scholarship. Each scholarship winner gave a short talk and was accompanied by their sponsoring Knight. And the grand finale of the awards ceremonies was the announcement of the Family of the Year and Knight of the Year. Marc pointed out that this was the first year our council selected a Family of the Year and was delighted to announce Larry and Sheila Balagna as the first recipients of this award. Marc was equally delighted to announce John Espree as the Knight of the Year. Both received warm and loud applause for well deserved awards. I invite you the check out the picture gallery below to re-live all the activity for the evening
