Program Manual

Membership 365

Membership 365 – Carlos X Martinez, Chairman

When a council wants to maximize its recruiting efforts and build enthusiasm among its members to recruit, call for a BLITZ. The membership BLITZ, normally scheduled during the months of October and March, is an all-out effort to canvass the local parish community and then initiate them into new members within two weeks. Follow these five plan phases to help a BLITZ effort to be successful.

Phase 1: The Preparation Phase
This phase begins with the council obtaining the pastor’s permission to conduct a BLITZ during a specific time that is targeted and to get the event advertised in the parish bulletin. This is also a great time to get the parish priest on board with the council as the champion for recruitment. Utilize the “Father Wants You Letter” (included in this section). This is also the time to order recruitment materials from the Supreme Council supply Department (allow for 4 weeks). The typical BLITZ Kit provides the following

Form 921A - “Prospect” cards
Form 1267 - “Did You Know?” flyers
Form 100 - “Membership” documents
Form 4496 - “The Greatness of a Man” flyer

After the materials have been ordered, the council needs to begin lining up members to assist with the BLITZ. And don’t forget to utilize the professional skills of the Field Agent (provide him with at least 3 weeks notice).

Phase 2: The Execution Phase
Before Mass, set up an inviting atmosphere including an informational table at the front doors of the Church. Have plenty of “Prospect Cards” and “Form 100’s” on hand to distribute to each man as he enters the Church. With the pastor’s permission, arrange for a membership recruitment announcement to be made before or after Mass. Make sure there are enough Knights on hand to answer questions and to collect the completed forms.

Phase 3: The Follow-Up Phase
Within 48 hours, personal contact must be made with every prospect. Be sure to inform every prospect of upcoming planned events (socials, open house, orientation, informational session, First Degree, etc.). Be sure to include the prospect’s family in any invitation to a council social.

Phase 4: The Orientation Phase
Organization and Communication is the key to a successful BLITZ. To be appealing to prospects, an informational session must be focused, organized, and move along at a steady pace. Have plenty of recruitment brochures on hand for the prospects and their families. Invite the council chaplain to open with a prayer and say some words about the Order and the vision of Father McGivney. Show some of the informative videos available from our Supreme Council. Have the Grand Knight outline the requirements of membership. Have plenty of Form 100’s on hand. Conclude the event with some light refreshments, and remind every prospect of the date of the next First Degree.

Phase 5: The First Degree
Hold frequent First Degree exemplifications. A candidate should never have to wait longer than two weeks after he has been recruited. Make sure candidates are picked up by their Proposer and brought to the First Degree. Make sure in advance that there is an adequate number of First Degree Kits for the candidates.
Applying these 5 steps will ensure that new membership will remain the focus of your Council. The Order remains strong due to the ever increasing membership, the Life Blood of our Councils. WE ARE CALLED to build upon our successes as an Order, Council and as Brother Knights to make certain that the Knights of Columbus remains the strong supportive arm of the Church.