From the Faithful Navigator

Brothers, we are nearing the end of our fraternal year and we have a lot to look back on.  We gained membership by nearly 50 members during the last 4th degree exemplification, but we also lost a few faithful members. 

We, as a nation, were subjected to the most violent acts of terrorism on September 11, 2001 which, I believe, has made this nation stronger than ever. 

And currently, we, as Catholics, have been subjected to another attack on our Church as witnessed by the recent reports of sexual misconduct by our priests.  Granted, some of these reports may be true, but according the National Catholic Register, these represent about 1.6 percent of the total priesthood population. Even Pope John Paul II stated…”As priests we are personally and profoundly afflicted by the sins of some of our brothers…” (National Catholic Register, pg 9, April 21-27, 2002) . 

Let us remember, however, that the Church, from its very beginning, has been through similar scandals starting with Judas, who betrayed our Savior with a kiss, and has since weathered them all during the past 2000 years and has become stronger as a result. 

Let us not forget also that as knights, when we took our third degree, we made a pledge of Fraternity and part of that pledge was to stand in solidarity with our priests. 

Now is the time they need our prayers.  Now is the time they also need our encouragement, love, and understanding.  Now is not the time to abandon or condemn them.  Please pray for our priests. 

I have no doubt that, as with 9-11, after this onslaught, the Catholic Church and the priesthood will become stronger than ever before.

 Vivat Jesus
George Bolduc
Faithful Navigator