Worthy Brother Knights:

My appreciation to you brothers who were able to attend our delayed general meeting held on September 11th, following my return from a Montreal-Italy-Toronto vacation the day before. This was a special meeting as we began with the Initiation of the Officers by our newly appointed District Deputy Gordon Skaluba. Congratulations to my executive council members and let’s strive to guide our Knights in making this a most interesting and beneficial Columbian Year for the Knights of Columbus, St. Cecilia’s and the community.

Our Lorne Dowling Bursary was awarded to three students from Bishop Carroll and Bishop Grandin High Schools. Thanks to all who attended and especially to Alfredo Nino, Lorne Dowling Bursary Chairman for corresponding with the schools and the students. Thank you for making your 6th LDB awards, a memorable event.

We had started up a few new programs last year with helping families in need at Christmas, the Vocations Poster at two schools and the Coats for Kids Program. This year we look forward to having our Chancellor Henry Feddema initiate a religious recognition program for students at St William’s School which is advocated by the school principal.

Brother John Wojtowicz has sent in an application for the Grey Cup Pool Raffle with proceeds for Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The State Charity Appeal drive will commence shortly after. At the next general meeting we will need to review allocation of our councils awarded Charity Appeal funds received from State for the last three years so please be prepared to offer your suggestions for charitable organizations to receive these funds. Our Calgary Chapter advocates St Mary’s University College, the Handi-boat and Camp Cadicasu.

I met with Fr. Ed Hespot of St. Francis de Sales parish in High River last weekend and presented him with Brother Greg LaMarre’s gift cards and another kind contribution. He says they are still rebuilding and they are anticipating reopening St. Francis de Sales in December.

As you know there is a new membership blitz on by Supreme and State and Bishop Henry has been asked to endorse the Knights through his pastors. We have some interest for follow up with several parishioners following the first Stewardship Sunday weekend and by the next general meeting Brothers John Bothwell, Henry Feddema and I hope to give you some good news. Last meeting we talked about mentoring our new Knights, namely Dennis and Michael and how important is for them to feel welcome and find an interest in our Surge programs. I hope we have enough experienced Knights available to help new Knights get started as I have a feeling this is going to be a very big year.

Fraternally yours,

Bro. Kevin Lopresti, Grand Knight