July 1 marks the beginning of the new fraternal year and newly elected officers. Start the year off right by planning family activities and a corporate communion, celebrating 125 years of "Faith In Action". Your council is asked to develop a compreshensive action plan for an "Experience of a Lifetime" recruitment campaign. Take advantage of the membership recruitment materials available through the Supreme Council and share the many benefits we experience as a Knight of Columbus with an eligible Catholic man in your parish.

The first and perhaps most important step in setting up a successful membership program is organizing your membership committees. The key is to ensure that these important appointees are dedicated and enthusiastic Knights. Filing of the Form 185 early will ensure the leadership of your council receives information from Supreme on a timely basis. Set your goals to achieve Star Council and schedule first degrees as often as possible; ideally once a month.

Remember, we celebrated our 125th anniversary on March 29, 2007. All degrees are to be dedicated in honor of our clergy, and on behalf of our founder, Father Michael J. McGivney. Hopefully your council, and/or district, is planning at least one more first degree this fraternal year.

The Theme of 2007-2008 will be "Lift High the Cross" with reachable goals set for membership recruitment at 5050 new Knights, 60 Star Districts and 180 Star Councils and holding suspensions to 1200. To reach these goals, it is important that we strive for all councils being recruitment active.

Jim Collins - State Membership Director