Knights of Columbus host annual clergy dinner for Diocese of Lincoln priests
The Knights of Columbus hosted their annual Clergy Dinner for the priests of the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln in February, continuing a tradition that has lasted for four decades, according to an April 17 announcement. The event took place at the Cathedral of the Risen Christ in Lincoln and included Bishop James Conley, numerous priests, seminarians, Knights members, and laymen with their sons.
The gathering is intended to show appreciation and support for the clergy who serve throughout the diocese. The Diocese of Lincoln promotes adherence to Catholic traditions and engages members through communications and events, according to the official website.
Bishop James Conley spoke about the relationship between the Knights and local clergy during a short program following dinner. “I think it shows the closeness the Knights have to the priests and it’s one of the fundamental, I might say, ‘charisms’ of the Knights… to support the clergy. So it’s one way that they can show their appreciation and their gratitude to the priesthood and to all that the priests do in the parishes. There’s always been a great collaboration between the Knights and priests. They have our backs and they want to show us that they have our backs by putting on a nice dinner for us once a year.”
Gary Gandara, district deputy #12 for Knights of Columbus, said: “This is our way of serving them back.” Father Kenneth Borowiak from St. Joseph Parish also thanked those involved: “They go through a lot of work in planning for months, set up, paying for the meal; it’s just encouraging to see… They affirm us in our identity as Catholics… So I can’t say thank you to them enough.”
Founded in 1882 by Father Michael McGivney in New Haven, Connecticut, as reported by organizers at this year’s event recap, Knights councils continue supporting parish life across southern Nebraska—an area served by 134 parishes and six educational institutions within this religious organization according to its official website (https://www.lincolndiocese.org/). The diocese also seeks to nurture followers who actively practice their beliefs while offering support for vocations, family life initiatives such as youth programs or catechesis efforts—a mission reflected through events like this annual dinner.
“May God reward them for their efforts as good Catholics and good citizens,” Conley said.
