A Message From Our Grand Knight…
As Grand Knight of Council 4524, I have loved every step of the journey through my faith and collectively with my brothers. In today’s challenging times, most Men are busy with work, family, and children's activities but are devoid of the comradery and mentorship of other Men who share the same faith. Gentlemen, if you take a stand you can discover how easy it is to make a difference in your life and that of others.
If you are interested in joining the Knights of Columbus, please use the "Join the Knights" button, complete the form and hit submit. We will be sure to get back in touch with you!
May you and your loved ones experience the peace of Christ today and every day!
Our History
From the moment of our founding in 1882, “charity” has been the first principle of the Knights of Columbus. We are men of faith and men of action.
In 2015, the Knights of Columbus set a new all-time record for the 17th consecutive year. Our charitable donations increased from 2014 by more than $1.5 million to a new total of $175,079,192. In addition, we achieved our highest level of charitable service in 2015, volunteering more than 73.5 million hours of service. The number of service hours contributed by Knights rose in 2015 by more than a million over the previous year’s total.
Our charitable activities encompass an almost infinite variety of local, national, and international projects. From international charitable partnerships with Special Olympics, the Global Wheelchair Mission, and Habitat for Humanity to our own Food for Families and Coats for Kids projects and other local charities, the opportunity to work together with fellow Knights and their families is virtually endless.
1958 - St. Francis of Assisi Council 4524, East Rutherford, NJ is granted a charter. Initial Grand Knight is Al Murden and the Chaplain is Father Fabian Flynn, OFM.
1960 - The Council home is purchased in Carlstadt, NJ
1980 to 1982 - Council earns the "Star Council" award for programs, insurance, and membership.
Father Fabian A. Flynn (1919 – 1997)
Father Fabian A. Flynn, OFM was the first chaplain of our Council No. 4524. The brown cloth and rope from his Franciscan robe were used to make our St. Francis of Assisi Council's banner.
Fr. Fabian Flynn, OFM, was born Nov. 7, 1919, in Port Jervis, N.Y. He was received into the novitiate at St. Bonaventure Friary, Paterson, N.J., in 1945, professing temporary vows one year later. He made his solemn profession in 1949 and was ordained in 1951.
His first assignment was to St. Francis of Assisi Parish in New York City. Fr. Fabian also served at St. Joseph’s Parish, East Rutherford, N.J.; St. Elizabeth’s Parish, Denver, as guardian and pastor; the Prudential Center Chapel, Boston; St. Anthony of Padua, Yulan, N.Y.; as pastor; St. Joseph’s Parish, Wilkes-Barre, Pa.; and St. Mary’s Parish, Obernburg, N.Y., as pastor and senior associate friar.
He died on Feb. 15, 1997, at his family home in Port Jervis, N.Y. Fr. Fabian was 77 years old, a professed friar for 50 years, and a priest for 45 years.
Our council's most famous accomplishment is the origination of the pennant, "One Nation Under God." These pennants were sold and donated throughout the United States, and even Europe and Brazil.
