Iowa Knight Life 2016-07-27 Role Models

Posted on July 28, 2016 by Michael Gaspers Posted in Building the Domestic Church, Faith Formation, Family, Special Olympics Leave a comment

This Week on Knight Life

Called to be role models … to build the domestic church thru helping each other and those in need. We hear from our State Deputy on Building the Domestic Church and from Knights who are living this message within their families.

Hello, I’m Mike Gaspers back with you for a half hour of information, inspiration and invitation around the activities of this band of brothers the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

This is Knight Life…our Mission is Be Men of Courage and to do everything with LOVE for our fellow man, woman, child and unborn child.

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Overview of the Podcast – Role Models

consecration-to-the-holy-family We begin as usual with prayer, this time the new consecration of families to the Holy Family is recited for us by participants at this summer’s Dubuque district meeting.

This prayer of family consecration will be used during the Christ our Life Catholic conference this September as the Knights lead all families present in entrusting themselves to Jesus, Mary and Joseph. All Knights councils and parishes are encouraged to do likewise at an appropriate time. For more information please visit http://www.kofc.org/un/en/domestic-church/parish-programs/holy-family-consecration.html#/

This prayer is part of the larger Building the Domestic Church initiative by the Knights of Columbus. State Deputy Jon Aldrich recites for us his letter to leaders of all councils explaining our renewed emphasis and its importance.

SD Jon Aldrich

I caught up with Jon and asked him to reflect further on what he expects and hopes to see in this coming year.

Hmm. We are going to have to learn more about this weight for hair incentive Jon spoke of.

This is Mike Gaspers for the Knight Life. We have been talking with State Deputy Jon Aldrich about Building the Domestic Church – a foundational initiative to focus Knight’s efforts on strengthening Catholic families and the men who lead them.

I invite you to learn more by visiting www.kofc.org where you will find information on the Family Consecration prayer and many more Building the Domestic Church ideas. I also encourage you to listen again to this week’s interview and those previously aired as easy to play podcasts at http://iowaknightlife.org/. You can be inspired to Build the Domestic church as you listen to the story of Iowa Knights in action.

Jeff Hoebelheinrich

July has been filled with much sad news regarding violence toward police officers that prompted our novena for peace in which many of us participated. As Knights we are known to roll up our sleeves and get things done to create peace through serving others. Here is a story of one Knight – a retired police officer and father striving to give back thru serving others and radiating joy the entire time.

I talked to Jeff at this year’s third annual Special Olympics Iowa Plane Pull where he had been a participant on the Knight’s team. I could feel Jeff’s enthusiasm coming through as he described his involvement.

Cody Muhs

Another returning participant Cody Muhs who brought his two sons to join in the fun. Cody is the Grand Knight at Newton and very much interested in helping those who are disadvantaged. I spoke with Cody and Owen, his son, as they were preparing to leave for home.

Owen has insightful observations for a young man; but more than that what a wonderful caring heart toward his father and younger brother Cameron. I look forward to seeing Cody and Owen side by side at future events. It is good to see the depth of love among these family members.

This is Mike Gaspers and you are listening to the Knight Life show where each week we strive to tell the story of the Iowa Knights from an insider’s point of view. This week – Building our Domestic Church – our State Deputy asks us to be courageous leaders in our councils and homes. And we hear from Cody Muhs and Jeff Hoebelheinrich men from Newton Iowa who are answering that call in their own lives and families.

Knights to Christ

Steve Hesprich returns with a Knights to Christ reflection centered on the importance of Catholic fathers as role models especially regards to putting Christ at the center of his family.

To find out more on the Iowa Knights visit our website www.iowakofc.org. You can follow Iowa Knights of Columbus on Facebook or on Twitter @IAKnights for the latest news and updates.

I’m Mike Gaspers, thank you for listening. Feeling inspired? Then act courageously and with love to put your faith into action by word and by deeds starting in your own family.

Interested in this Band of Brothers? Contact a Knight or your parish priest and we will bring you into this fraternity of Catholic men. Be Strong. Be Courageous. Step into the Breach with Us.

Knight Life is a production of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

Iowa Knight Life 2016-01-13 Midwest March

Posted on January 14, 2016 by Michael Gaspers Posted in Building the Domestic Church, Culture of Life, Leadership Leave a comment

This Week on Knight Life

….we get ready to March in support of Life in Des Moines at the Midwest March for Life. We are encouraged to join in by & with our leadership inviting participation by all. We hear from inspired Knights acting for life and are reminded our Story is of God acting today. We hope it moves you to be courageous and to act help others especially the unborn.

Hello, I’m Mike Gaspers back with you for a half hour of information, inspiration and invitation around the activities of this band of brothers the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

This is Knight Life…our Mission is Be Men of Courage and to do everything with LOVE for our fellow man, woman, child and unborn child.

Audio Player

To listen to the full podcast click the play arrow.

Midwest March for Life – Overview of the Podcast

We begin this week with a prayer for life from Fr Dan Greving of the Sts Mary and Joseph Cluster in the Sioux City Diocese.

State Deputy Jon Aldrich

At the start of January I had dinner with State Deputy Jon Aldrich and reflected with him on completing 6 months as State Deputy. We discussed upcoming initiatives including the Midwest March for Life and our renewed emphasis on Building up the Domestic Church – that is strengthening the Catholicity of Families while supporting our parishes.

Jon is leading the effort to refocus our involvement in parish life and our families by Knight’s councils across all Iowa. And we do mean all families so we wish Antonio well in his mission to reach out to those of Spanish heritage to be a part of the Knight family. And we hope you our listeners become involved not only with the Midwest March for Life but with Knights for Life in home towns throughout the year.

Hope to see you at the capitol this week end Saturday January 16th!

After last April’s state convention I heard from a handful of folks regarding the Knights for Life Ultrasound initiative. One name came to my attention several times – that of Clay Gubbels of Carroll. Something that week end spoke to his heart while listening to plans for more ultrasound units – a message he carried back and delivered passionately to his council brothers.

Clay Gubbels & Msgr Larry Beeson

The Carroll council under Clay’s leadership and with the cooperation of the Grand Knight moved forward to raise money to meet the challenge to fund more ultrasounds. The efforts of the council resulted in $10,500 which was donated to the Iowa Knights Ultrasound initiative.

I ran into Clay at a recent 4th degree exemplification and we spent a few minutes talking about the project and is awakened passion.

A very sincere and humble thanks goes out to Clay and the Carroll council brothers. I’m so very happy they acted on the message heard at convention and stepped up to make a difference for saving lives. In both big and small ways each of us can make a difference for life. Be courageous and act now in your community for the cause of life.

A year ago December we spoke with Dick Makinster about Birthright another life affirming option supported by Knights around the state. Dick and the Knights in Marion have been involved with assisting Birthright for many years and he now serves as the Birthright State Chairman for Iowa Knights.

Birthright International is a non-profit charitable organization that has been providing love and support for over 45 years to women facing unplanned pregnancies. If you want to get involved contact a local chapter or your local Knights council to help. Visit http://birthright.org/en/ for more information

We first met Scott Valencia, District Warden #48 back in December as we discussed his new involvement with the Knights. Scott is very media savvy and talked with me about the value of social media to further the mission of the Knights of Columbus, to inspire and to bring hope to those who need good news.

Getting the story out to others – your story as told by you is very important to everyone including the Knights. To find out more on the Iowa Knights visit our website www.iowakofc.org. You can follow Iowa Knights of Columbus on Facebook or on Twitter @IAKnights for the latest news and updates. Consider posting a comment about your experience with the Knights of Columbus.

I’m Mike Gaspers, thank you for listening. Feeling inspired? Then act courageously and with love to put your faith into action by word and by deeds. Don’t forget to March with us this Saturday!

Interested in the Band of Brothers? Contact a Knight or your parish priest and we will bring you into this fraternity of Catholic men.

Knight Life is a production of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

Iowa Knight Life 2016-01-06 Resolutions

Posted on January 7, 2016 by Michael Gaspers Posted in Convention, Council, Culture of Life Leave a comment

This Week on Knight Life

Resolutions for some a favorite new year activity and genuinely consider. We also resolve to prepare for convention.

We start each new year with a hope we can make it better – but are reminded it needs to begin in faith. So while we wait to find out those things, a past Grand Knight resolves on behalf of all Knights. To resolve is to plan and to plan is key to success especially when preparing for convention and you hope to leave a lasting impression

Hello, I’m Mike Gaspers back with you for a half hour of information, inspiration and invitation around the activities of this band of brothers the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

This is Knight Life…our Mission is Be Men of Courage and to do everything with LOVE for our fellow man, woman, child and unborn child.

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To listen to the full podcast click the play arrow.

Resolutions: Overview of the Podcast

We begin this week with a prayer for life from Fr Dan Greving of the Sts Mary and Joseph Cluster in the Sioux City Diocese.

Hope to see you there at the capitol! Of the many knights we meet some seem to stand out. One remarkable fellow from St Augustine’s Council in Des Moines is Don Hauser. Don is a “seasoned” Knight having seen 85 years of life. He remains active with his council promoting the Knights which came to my attention when he shared his resolutions for a Knight last year – and updated them this year.

Don Hauser & Mike Gaspers

I do think is wonderful to begin each year with intentions to accomplish something better; and tip my hat to Don that he is still working on perfecting his resolutions. I invite you to visit the Iowa Knights of Columbus website to read Don’s resolutions and perhaps post some of your own in the comment section.

One member of the Iowa Knights For Life committee is Jim Bates who is also this year’s convention co-chairman. Recently I spoke with Jim about what we can expect from this year’s convention.

The basket idea intrigues me – so much so I plan to approach my council about making one to represent us: Danbury Holy Rosary Council – Gem of the Loess Hills. Contents to be determined.

One man with a lot of content is Kevin Hayes. We flashback to this year’s Supreme convention to get a glimpse of Kevin’s impressions of the Knights of Columbus on the international level after having been the state convention co chair in 2015.

Any third degree Knight can stand for election to the Supreme Meeting each year. I encourage you to not only attend the Iowa State convention but to consider the Supreme Convention as well. Review State convention details on the Iowa KofC website.

Steve Hesprich reflects on hope in this week’s Knights to Christ segment.

On behalf of our State Deputy Jon Aldrich I wish you a Happy New Year; one filled with resolve to be courageous, merciful and filled with hope.

To find out more on the Iowa Knights visit our website www.iowakofc.org .You can follow Iowa Knights of Columbus on Facebook or on Twitter @IAKnights for the latest news and updates.

We are a family friendly fraternity. We place God First in our lives and then with mercy and in charity act courageously to serve others.

If you feel prompted to give something back and want to become more of the Catholic man you were created to be, join us as we make a difference serving our church, our communities and our families. Knights make it easy to give back.

I’m Mike Gaspers, thank you for listening. Feeling inspired? Then act courageously and with love to put your faith into action by word and by deeds.

Knight Life is a production of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

Iowa Knight Life 2015-12-23 Gift of Self

Posted on December 24, 2015 by Michael Gaspers Posted in Advent, Building the Domestic Church, Church, Family, Leadership Leave a comment

This Week on Knight Life

Merry Christmas

This week on Knight Life …. The wise men are NOT the only one with gifts to share. Large or small each one’s gift of self adds up to a tremendous force for good.

Hello, I’m Mike Gaspers back with you for a half hour of information, inspiration and invitation around the activities of this band of brothers the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

This is Knight Life…our Mission is Be Men of Courage and to do everything with LOVE for our fellow man, woman, child and unborn child.

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To listen to the full podcast click the play arrow.

Overview of the Podcast – Gift of Self

Our Advent preparations are at an end and that which we awaited is here. My own preparations always seem insufficient compared to the gift of Love coming into the World anew. That is why after all I need a savior – I’ve fallen short and will never on my own measure up. I am content to be present as witness as Jesus is laid in the manger but know that soon I will also be at the foot of the cross. These two are very much linked.

We start off this week with Christmas greetings from our State Deputy Jon Aldrich. His focus – Gift of self to others and your family.

Knights are men following the example of Joseph who cared for and protected Jesus and Mary. It is thru service and obedience to God’s will that we find our way in this life. That core understanding lies at the heart of Fr McGivney’s vision of the Knights. It is this understanding I believe that led to a recent reinforced initiative by our Knights leaders know as “Building the Domestic Church While Strengthening Our Parish” Our State Deputy Jon Aldrich talks about some aspects of this mission.

It is a most appropriate action to come along-side the pastor as his trusted right hand. The foundation of the Knights of Columbus lies in families – the domestic church. Moreover the initiative is designed to help the Catholic family become a domestic Church whose daily life reflects the aspects of the entire church. For this to become a reality the family must be more fully integrated in the sacramental life of the parish.

It all begins with the fraternity and charity of the Knights council helping others and at the same time changes us to be more Christ-like toward each other and our families. To learn more see the address of Supreme Knight Carl Anderson to the State Deputies this past November posted on the Iowa Knights YouTube channel.

I met a new Knight this December who is experiencing just those benefits of membership. Scott Valencia is District Warden #48 which means he is helping the district deputy and learning the ropes to perhaps take on that leadership role in the future. I spoke with Scott about his time in the Knights and learned he is on the fast track so to speak.

We recently heard similar sentiments from Russ Yount that no man need be an island – the ideal of Catholic manhood is in community with our brothers. Sure we may be busy with important duties of raising our children and earning a living. We make time to help out where and when we can. But we don’t do it alone when we work together as Knights. Knights strengthen and encourage each other as together we build up the domestic church.

Bob Douglas is 6 months into his term as State Advocate. I shared a conversation with Bob on what the experience has been so far for him. We cover Knight’s parish focus, Iowa Knights Charitable foundation and membership.

Congratulations to Sacred Heart Des Moines 9632 and Burlington 568 for achieving Contest of Champions. Both councils brought 22 new men into the Knights – most of any council in Iowa. That’s 44 more brothers or 88 more hands to build up the domestic church in those parishes!

For more information on the Iowa Charitable Foundation and how it may benefit you while doing good for others visit http://iowakofc.org/ and look for Charitable Foundation under the “State” tab or click here http://iowakofc.org/page/charitable-foundation

Mark your calendars for January 16th. That is the date of the Midwest March for Life in Des Moines. Visit http://www.iowartl.org/midwest-march-for-life/ for details.

Knights to Christ

Steve Hesprich reflects that our Advent preparations are nearly over but not to let Christmas be only one day or one season in our faith journey. Several times this month I’ve heard someone say that faith like Advent is a gift. It’s up to us to accept and unwrap that gift.

To find out more on the Iowa Knights visit our website www.iowakofc.org .You can follow Iowa Knights of Columbus on Facebook or on Twitter @IAKnights for the latest news and updates.

We are a family friendly fraternity. We place God First in our lives and then with mercy and in charity act courageously to serve others.

I’m Mike Gaspers, thank you for listening. Feeling inspired? Then act courageously and with love to put your faith into action by word and by deeds.

Knight Life is a production of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

Iowa Knight Life 2015-08-19 McGivney Guild

Posted on August 20, 2015 by Michael Gaspers Posted in Leadership, McGivney Guild Leave a comment

This Week on Knight Life – Fr McGivney Guild

Hello, I’m Mike Gaspers –back with you for our half hour of information, inspiration and invitation around the activities of the Iowa Knights of Columbus. This week we hear what it’s like to live your faith. This is Knight Life…our Mission is to Be Men of Courage and to do everything with LOVE for our fellow man, woman, child and unborn child.

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Overview of the Podcast

It was a busy last week. We celebrated two milestones in the Life of Venerable Fr Michael McGivney. We protested government funding of Planned Parenthood at the state Capital. And we attended our state fair with visiting candidates and gobs of media.

The Iowa State Fair is an annual tradition for many Iowa Families including the current “1st” family of the Iowa Knights Jon and Cindi Aldrich. This year the venue is also getting its share of presidential candidates promising to “make our lives better” and vying for more than a 15 second sound bite. I sat down with the Aldrich’s after a long day this past Saturday and talked about promises and prayers realized in their life in the past year. You can hear the fair sounds in the background.

Cindi Aldrich entrusted her cares to Fr McGivney who it seems to us, interceded on her behalf – a mark of faith. Answered prayers do not surprise the vice Postulator for the cause of Sainthood, Brian Caulfield who said in a 2013 interview;

Fr McGivney Guild

“There are two things Father McGivney was concerned about in his lifetime,” … “keeping his Catholic flock within the Church, despite the many anti-Catholic challenges in society, and making sure the Catholic family was provided for through decent employment of the breadwinner.”

The cause for Fr McGivney’s Sainthood is still actively proceeding; however as the cause did not open until just over a century after he died, it is considered a “historical cause,” since none of the virtuous priest’s contemporaries were alive to testify about him.

It must be pointed out that the title “Venerable,” applied to Fr McGivney is “the recognition of heroic virtue mainly based on human testament, human sources about what he did, what he wrote, what others wrote about him. The Church makes her judgment on those sources.” To be beatified, The Church looks to God to act – it is God who grants a miracle through the intercession of the venerable servant of God and thus confirms the matter.

Anyone is encouraged to pray to Father McGivney for their needs – better employment, children returning to church are common; interested persons should consider the Father McGivney Guild

The Father Michael J. McGivney Guild serves as a source for information about the life, works and spirituality of Father McGivney. The Guild distributes informational materials about him, receives reports of favors granted through his intercession and oversees the distribution of relics. Guild members receive regular updates on the progress of Father McGivney’s cause for canonization and are invited to participate in promoting devotion to this Servant of God

For more information visit www.fathermcgivney.org

Families have always been at the center of the Knights of Colum bus. At this year’s Supreme Convention Missouri was award the Family Service Project Award. As you will hear it certainly could be and probably has been a story repeated in many rural Catholic areas in our own state. Richard and Palmyra of Martinsburg MO give us some details.

IPSD, Carl Welte, Wyoming

I run into great Knights all the time – this time just outside the meeting room doors at our Supreme Convention. His face was one of warm welcome inviting more conversation … so I took him up on at and asked about his experience of the Knight Life. Meet Carl Joe Welte, immediate Past State Deputy of Wyoming and hear about his journey in the Knights.

In this week’s Knights to Christ Entry Steve covers the topic of Charity but in unusual fashion. What do we consider important and what is it worth … really worth. Find out how much value a nickel really has when used to by more than something material.

For more information on the Knights of Columbus Supreme Convention visit www.kofc.org.

To find out more on the Iowa Knights visit our website www.iowakofc.org or you can also follow Iowa Knights on Facebook or on Twitter. This week you will find many images from the Truth Exposed Rally held on the Capital grounds.

We are a family friendly fraternity. We place God First in our lives and then with mercy and in charity act courageously to serve others.

If you feel prompted to give something back and want to become more of the Catholic man you were created to be, join us as we make a difference serving our church, our communities and our families.

I’m Mike Gaspers, thank you for listening. Feeling inspired? Then act courageously and with love to put your faith into action by word and by deeds.

Knight Life is a production of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

The song Courageous is by Casting Crowns; other music heard in this show is from various Supreme Convention Masses.

If you are a Knight and like this audio communication method, contact me, we could always use one more person with a microphone and a desire to make a difference. Requirements are minimal: determination and a love of the Knights. Send us an email:

[contact-form][contact-field label=’Name’ type=’name’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Email’ type=’email’ required=’1’/][contact-field label=’Phone Number’ type=’text’/][contact-field label=’Comment’ type=’textarea’/][/contact-form]

Iowa Knight Life 2015-07-22 Leadership

Posted on July 23, 2015 by Michael Gaspers Posted in Leadership Leave a comment

This Week on Knight Life

A review of leadership and the State Family Meeting of Iowa. New State Deputy Jon Aldrich lays out the challenges to us all regarding reduction of abortion; stepping up to lead and growing our membership. Dave Capper and Gerry Fetzer describe their involvement and Levi Leyba outlines his job with Supreme.

Hello, I’m Mike Gaspers I’m back with you for a half hour of information, inspiration and invitation around the activities of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

This is Knight Life…our Mission is Be Men of Courageous and do everything with LOVE for our fellow man, woman, child and unborn child.

Audio Player

To listen to the full podcast click the play arrow.

Overview of the Podcast

During the weekend of July 11th-12th leaders of the Iowa Knights of Columbus gathered in Des Moines for the annual organizational meeting. Iowa Knights warmly refer to the weekend as State Family as so many of us feel like the Knights we meet and work with our like family.

The annual organizational meeting is about getting off on the right foot. New District Deputies are installed and all of us receive orientation regarding the key initiatives for this fraternal year.

Veteran Knight Life Report Ken Root had a chance to talk with Jon Aldrich who shares some of the goals discussed with our team.

As membership director, yours truly has much to do to motivate and move the needle toward 32,000 knights. As my brother friend Paul Martin advises – there’s much to be enthusiastic about so move it forward with vision and passion.

An associate from years past, Dave Capper of Riverside, returns this year as District Deputy. Dave and I worked together about 15 years ago when he was first district deputy. I caught up with him and asked about his coming out of retirement to once again be a Knight Leader.

Dave is a Knight with his bearings set to True North. I like that in a brother and in a leader.

This is Knight Life. Our State Deputy Jon Aldrich Challenges us to be men of courage and do everything with Love.

Gerry Fetzer of Marion is another brother who I’ve come to know and appreciate his deep commitment to service. As you will hear in our conversation he is giving of himself on many fronts.

I’m sure the Knights Keep Christ in Christmas program has a great chance at more success with Gerry at the helm.

Typically our national office — the Supreme Council — sends a representative to keep our efforts aligned with those nationally. Levi Leyba from New Mexico is entering the third year in his Iowa assignment. Ken Root caught up with Levi and learns more about his responsibilities and assignments.

In his week’s Knights to Christ reflection Steve focuses on the power of unity and being single minded in doing God’s will.

Boy what a powerful question: Today the one thing I must accomplish at any cost is _______________. Each of us must answer for what is most important in our life.

To find out more on the Iowa Knights visit our website www.iowakofc.org or you can also follow Iowa Knights on Facebook or on Twitter.

We are a family friendly fraternity. We place God First in our lives and then with mercy and in charity act courageously to serve others.

If you feel prompted to give something back and want to become more of the Catholic man you were created to be, join us as we make a difference serving our church, our communities and our families.

I’m Mike Gaspers, thank you for listening. Feeling inspired? Then act courageously and with love to put your faith into action by word and by deeds.

Knight Life is a production of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

The song Courageous is by Casting Crowns

Iowa Knight Life 2015-07-08 Men of Courage

Posted on July 9, 2015 by Michael Gaspers Posted in Culture of Life, Leadership Leave a comment

This Week on Knight Life
This showed Aired July 08, 2015

We welcome a new State Deputy – Jon Aldrich of Altoona takes office today – July 1st. His challenge to brother Knights is taken from 1 Corinthians 16:13-14: Be men of courage. Do everything with Love.

With Jon and all Knights we look toward our celebration of Independence Day and reflect upon our Nation’s founding document

Hello, I’m Mike Gaspers I’m back with you for a half hour of information, inspiration and invitation around the activities of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

This is Knight Life…our Mission is Be Courageous and do everything with LOVE for our fellow man, woman, child and unborn child.

This week more than ever we focus on the value of marriage and family so we begin with a prayer

Audio Player
To listen to the full podcast click the play arrow.

Overview of the Podcast
Being Men of Courage is the order of the day!

Our new Worthy State Deputy on the eve prior to taking office was able to demonstrate his own motto of courage. Jon had successful gall bladder surgery and by Saturday was setting the example of being first at our DD training meeting.

This reminds me of his espoused focus during his term as State Deputy. First to cultivate and challenge leadership among the Knights of Columbus in Iowa. Saturday’s training covered basics of being a District Deputy but also suggested a model of servant leadership. Later in July we will meet again with all our State leaders for more planning. We will hear from some of those DD’s on a future Knight Life.

Jon’s other prime focus during his term of office is the advancement of Iowa’s ultrasound initiative. Some councils are already raising funds for ultrasounds in their local areas. In collaboration with In His Image the Iowa Knights have decided on the best equipment available to save lives. The first of these new and improved ultrasounds delivered to Iowa in June and will be in use saving lives before long.

In May I had the privilege of stopping by the US office in Indianapolis to see the Iowa ultrasounds being readied for shipment. I met the staff and spoke with Kim Akers CFO about the program and what it means.

These are the first of many life-saving ultrasounds Iowa Knights will place around Iowa.

The initiative consists not only of raising money to place ultrasounds in pregnancy resource centers, it is raising awareness and changing hearts and minds.

Beginning in April 2015, six Silver Roses began their journey across North America, from Canada to the United States to Mexico. The 2015 Our Lady of Guadalupe Silver Rose – One Life, One Rose Program will conclude on December 12, 2015 on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas, at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Monterrey, Mexico.

2015 marks the 55th year of the program which began in 1960 as a project of the Columbian Squires of North America to honor the Blessed Virgin under her title of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas. The program has continued since then as a project of Columbian Squires circles, councils and Fourth Degree assemblies in several jurisdictions.

In 2001 Supreme Knight Carl Anderson expanded the program by beginning the “Running of the Rose” from the 119th Annual Meeting of the Supreme Council in Toronto. This is “a perfect program for the Knights of Columbus,” said Supreme Knight Anderson. “Through it we honor not only Our Lady of Guadalupe and express the unity of the Order, but we also reaffirm the Order’s dedication to the sanctity of human life. It is to the Blessed Mother that we turn in prayer as we work to end the Culture of Death that grips our society. As we think in terms of ‘One Life, One Rose,’ it is most appropriate that we turn to Our Lady of Guadalupe who made known her will through Juan Diego and the miracle of the roses.”

Veteran Knight Life reporter Ken Root is back after successful hip surgery. He hopped on over the Praire Du Chien Wisconsin on June 28th to witness the silver rose transfer between Wisconsin and Iowa. Ken gives us a view into what the day was like.

Thank you Ken for that enlightening discussion with those involved in the Running of the Rose. The journey through Iowa is posted on the Iowa Knights website www.iowakofc.org. You are encourage to attend a prayer service as the rose moves along the eastern side of the state.

This week’s Knights to Christ reflection addresses our nation’s heritage and founding roots in religious sensibilities.

Get involved with prayer and reflection during this fortnight for freedom. Our country was founded by thoughtful religious persons willing to take a risk. It is up to us, their heirs to likewise be courageous and will informed – and just maybe speak out for truth.

For more information on the Knights of Columbus visit our website www.iowakofc.org or you can also follow Iowa Knights on Facebook or on Twitter. For more information on Marriage resources visit USCCB site http://www.foryourmarriage.org/

We are a family friendly fraternity. We place God First in our lives and then with mercy and in charity act courageously to serve others.

If you feel prompted to give something back and want to become more of the Catholic man you were created to be, join us as we make a difference serving our church, our communities and our families.

I’m Mike Gaspers, thank you for listening. Feeling inspired? Then courageously Go Make A Difference in the World by your words and by your deeds.

Want to help tell the story of the Knights from your council? Then send a message to publicity@iowakofc.org. We are looking for more brother Knights to expand our point of view on the Knight Life.

Knight Life is a production of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

The song Courageous is by Casting Crowns

Iowa Knight Life 2015-06-10 Leadership Challenge

Posted on June 11, 2015 by Michael Gaspers Posted in Culture of Life, Huddle, Leadership, Special Olympics Leave a comment

This Week on Knight Life

Jon Aldrich State Deputy elect talks about preparations to take over leadership of the Iowa Knights. Gary Harms director of Special Olympics Iowa talks about the plane pull. And we visit with Dean Adams GK of Fairfield council. In these we hear of leadership challenge.

Hello, I’m Mike Gaspers –back with you for our half hour of information, inspiration and invitation around the activities of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

This is Knight Life…our Mission is to Go Make A Difference – with Courage for our brother Knights, for their families, for life

Audio Player

To listen to the full podcast click the play arrow.

Overview of the Podcast

Iowa Knights are busy preparing to transition leadership in their councils and in the state officers. State Deputy Jon Aldrich was installed into his office on Friday June 5th. He will assume his duties on July 1st. I caught up with Jon at the Dubuque Huddle the week prior to his installation and discussed what was on his mind.

I recall how much fun Jon had as a District Deputy and as a mentor to Grand Knights. But now it’s time to get serious about the duties at hand so I asked Jon about his main focus as he takes over as State Deputy. He explains a dual focus on leadership and ultrasounds.

I’m on board with Jon to help make the Ultrasound initiative a successful reality. You will be hearing more from him and how you can be involved in the coming weeks. Jon is asking us to Be men of courage and to do everything with love. A fitting challenge to all Knights.

Saturday June 6th was the Plane Pull for Special Olympics. There were about as many teams as last year and many athletes participated. Special Olympians are the epitome of courage as they joyfully and bravely compete in events, and yes pull plants. We hope to bring you results and some reflections in a future Knight Light. Check out our facebook page for pictures.

I did speak with Gary Harms CEO of Special Olympics about some additional upcoming events. Those of you in the Des Moines are on Friday June 12th may want to join Gary at Principal Park to support athletes attending the World Games. As you will hear the torch will be making its way thru Iowa on the journey west for the World Games in July

You may remember we spoke with Gary last year. At the time he was the interim CEO and not yet a Knight. A lot has changed – we are very proud to call Gary a brother Knight of Columbus and salute his dedication to special Olympic athletes.

Coming back to the local level, I spoke with Dean Adams from the Fairfield council on his first year as Grand Knight about the highs and the lows

From athletes, to Grand Knights and beyond each of us has something to offer. In our actions, in our words in our willingness to say yes to the challenge. Steve Hesprich presents us with a challenge to consider this flag day in this week’s Knights to Christ reflection.

Thank you Steve for reminding us God first then country.

For more information on the Knights of Columbus visit our website www.iowakofc.org or you can also follow Iowa Knights on Facebook or on Twitter

We are a family friendly fraternity. We place God First in our lives and then with mercy and in charity act courageously to serve others.

If you feel prompted to give something back and want to become more of the Catholic man you were hoping to be, join us as we make a difference serving our church, our communities and our families.

I’m Mike Gaspers, thank you for listening. Feeling inspired? Then courageously Go Make A Difference in the World by your words and by your deeds.

Knight Life is a production of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

The song Courageous is by Casting Crowns

Iowa Knight Life 2015-04-15 Convention

Posted on April 16, 2015 by Michael Gaspers Posted in Convention, Culture of Life, Family, Youth Leave a comment

This Week on Knight Life

This week on Knight Life we cover our 114th State Convention held Divine Mercy weekend at the Marriott in Corallville. New Officers were elected to take over in July. Achievements were recognized and awards given.

Hello, I’m Mike Gaspers. I’m back with you for this week’s half hour of information, inspiration and invitation around the activities of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.

This is Knight Life…our Mission is to Go Make A Difference – and soon to“Be Courageous” for our brother Knights, for their families, for life.

Audio Player

To listen to the full podcast click the play arrow.

Overview of the Podcast

Knights gather in convention to strengthen our identity as Knights and as Catholics. At Mass we are visibly united with our Bishops and Priests in worship of our God and King. Guided by the principles laid down by our founder, Iowa Knights come together to reflect upon and celebrate the achievements of our order over the last year. Together we pause to rededicate ourselves to those same timeless principles and to plan for continued success in our Great State.

As Knights we put God first … acting on that loving mercy we choose to serve others in charity and become Better Catholics, Better Husbands, Better Fathers, Better Men. These are not mere words but real facts born out in the lives of many brother Knights. These acts of charity by individual brothers and councils come together and create a tapestry of beauty and inspiration which renews our commitment to Fr McGivney’s vision. Our united action gives witness to the great love of God and shines light into dark corners in this state. Acting together as Knights in solidarity with our Priests we can be an irresistible force for renewal of parish and family life.

New officers were chosen to lead the Knights during the upcoming year. Jon Aldrich from Altoona was elected to the office of State Deputy. In his acceptance speech he emphasizes the need to be courageous and dramatically reduce the number of abortions in the State of Iowa. Jon also announces his theme of “Be Courageous” and challenges all to step up and to lead in their families and in their councils.

State Advocate Brian Thul chaired the election process and ran it smoothly under his expert guidance. We hear further announcements from him on results. Ken Root spoke with Brian and Advocate elect Bob Douglas.

State Deputy Elect Jon Aldrich mentioned a unified effort to increase Knight Involvement in Building up a Culture of life. At convention Informed Choices Clinic had their new mobile medical clinic on display. Ken Root toured “Charlie” with Rachel Owens executive director. As both Jon and Rachel attested, Iowa Knights passed resolutions of support for more Ultrasounds and a Waiting Period before any abortion. All these are focused on reducing the number of abortions and reducing the number of women damaged by abortion in Iowa

There was plenty more activity at convention. councils were recognized for outstanding service projects and individuals were recognized for their dedication and contribution.

Sac City is rightfully proud to be home of youth of the year. Thanks for serving our veterans Kelly Killbride.

Close by we find Manning-Manilla home to the Iowa Family of the Year Darlys and Scott Halbur. Ken is right – they are a good looking bunch. We are most proud of them.

I watched the Grand Knight of the year over this past year. A well deserved honor for Paul Martin of St Augustine council in Des Moines.

For more information about this year’s convention and various award winners visit our website www.iowakofc.org. or you can also follow Iowa Knights on Facebook or Twitter

We are a family friendly fraternity. We place God First in our lives and then with mercy and in charity act courageously to serve others.

If you feel prompted to give something back and want to become more of the Catholic man you were hoping to be, join us as we make a difference serving our church, our communities and our families.

I’m Mike Gaspers, thank you for listening. Feeling inspired? Then Go Make A Difference in the World by your words and by your deeds.

Knight Life is a production of the Iowa Knights of Columbus.