Answer:  You must be a practical Catholic male, 18 years of age or older. While dues-paying membership is only for Catholic men, most council programs are open to the member's entire family, including social and family activities, scholarships, volunteer service programs and insurance benefits. Candidates join local units, called "councils," most of which are based in one Catholic parish, or in the community at large.

The candidate takes part in initiation degrees that explain the Knights of Columbus' four principles: Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism. He is considered a "Knight" after taking his First Degree, but he is encouraged to advance through the Second and Third Degrees and on to the Fourth Degree, whose members promote the virtue of patriotism by serving in honor guards, color corps and promoting respect for country and the flag.  

Answer:  No, you can be a member of any Catholic parish. Due to its geographic location, Council #1271 is especially well suited for those that are parish members of the: Old Mission San Luis Obispo, the Nativity of Our Lady Church, and St. Anne's Byzantine Church.  

Answer:  No, there is no minimum amount of time required. Volunteerism is however an important part of being a Knight. Our main focus is helping the community through our efforts.  

Answer:  Yes. Please contact the Grand Knight or his designee for more details.  

Answer:  No. The Knights of Columbus was created to help and protect those who practice Catholicism.  

Answer:  Absolutely not. Catholicism and Freemasonry are incompatible. One cannot be both a Catholic in good standing and a member of the Freemasonry. The Catholic Church has specifically forbade membership in Freemasonry by Catholics since 1738. Therefore one cannot be a member of both the Knights of Columbus and the Freemasonry. To understand the Catholic Church's formal position on this issue, please read Humanum Genus and Declaration on Masonic Associations (Quaesitum est). Still confused about this important issue? Then visit the official Vatican Website and re-read the Catholic Church's position by clicking here, or you can read it in Latin on the official Vatican Website by clicking here.  

Answer:  Some of the numerous benefits include fellowship with a terrific group of Catholic men, the ability to purchase insurance from the Knights of Columbus AAA rated insurance program at low prices, and your family can be a part of the many special activities throughout the year. The Knights can be a path for your efforts for pro-life, vocations, feeding the poor, helping the mentally handicapped, and many other worthwhile causes.  

Answer:  No, the Knights of Columbus is a very open organization with a strong community presence. Only the four degree advancement ceremonies are kept secret to maintain and focus the power of their message.  

Answer:  Usually twice a month unless there are special events or programs underway. Once for a council business meeting, and once for a family BBQ.  

Answer:  Perhaps, but not likely. Only the Fourth Degree KofC color guard are required to purchase and wear formal ceremonial uniforms. All Fourth Degree KofC members also wear tuxedos on occasion.  

Answer:  The cost is extremely modest. Please contact the Grand Knight for more details about joining the Knights of Columbus.