On Thursday, March 21, 2025, Father Michael McGivney Catholic Academy in Markham, Ont., recognized the 125th anniversary of the founding of the Knights of Columbus’ Ontario chapter with a special Mass celebrated by Most Reverend John A. Boissonneau, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Toronto.
The Knights of Columbus are the world’s largest lay Catholic fraternal order, dedicated to making the world a better place through charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. Father Michael McGivney founded the Knights of Columbus in the United States of America almost 150 years ago.
The Mass was attended by numerous dignitaries from the York Catholic District School Board, including Chair of the Board Elizabeth Crowe, Trustee Frank Alexander, Director of Education John De Faveri and Superintendent of Education Tim Laliberte.
Many members of the Knights of Columbus’ state leadership were also present, including Ontario State Deputy Bruce Poulin, Ontario State Treasurer Joe Bodnar, Ontario State Advocate Henry Miller, Vice Supreme Master Joe Mathews, District Master, 2nd Ontario District, Paul Rozario, Director of Ontario Communications & Membership Information Jerry Hayes and Director of Archdiocesan Association of Toronto Eardley Adams.
An honour guard provided extra pomp to the Mass thanks to Knights of Columbus Assembly 3325 located at St Patrick Parish in Markham.
Father Michael McGivney CA students and staff had clearly worked hard to make the Mass a success.
After Mass, the leadership of the Knights of Columbus presented Father Michael McGivney CA Principal Camille Robinson and Chaplain Winnie Sum with generous donations, including third-degree relics of Father Michael McGivney.
The entire day was a testament to the fact that Catholic education succeeds because it brings an entire community together for the benefit of students.
