Father Michael McGivney, the founder of the fraternal organization known as the Knights of Columbus was declared venerable by His Holiness, Benedict XVI on Saturday. This clears the way for the American-born priest to be examined for possible 'elevation to the altar' as the saying goes. The Knights of Columbus are hoping that someday Father McGivney may be declared a Saint, but before this happens, he must be declared Blessed.
The process for canonization (the official procedure followed by the Church to declare someone a Saint) involves years of investigation, the compilation of documentation, testimony attesting to the fact that a given candiate lived an exemplary life, and even the possibility of miracles being performed thanks to the intercession of the potential high flyer him-herself.
Michael McGivney was born in 1852 in Connecticut (USA) to parents who were Irish immigrants. By the way, this is perhaps providential since today is the traditional Feast Day of Saint Patrick. The Church actually transferred the observance of Saint Patrick's Day to March 15 this year because today is Monday of Holy Week, but most traditional Irishmen (and women) may choose to celebrate today in any case.
Father McGivney was ordained in 1877 in Baltimore, Maryland and started the Knights of Columbus while he was assigned at his home parish of Saint Mary's in New Haven, CT. To this day, the headquarters of the Knights of Columbus is situated in New Haven, and Saint Mary's church still figures prominently in the spiritual history of the Order.
What started out as a parish project to unite men of faith in the work of caring for widows and orphans has become a world-wide organization which prides itself on the promotion of charity, family values and defending the Catholic faith. The Knights of Columbus have one of the most successful insurance programs currently available to its members and their families.
More information about the Knights of Columbus or about the process for canonization of its founder can be found on the website of the KofC.
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