On October 2, 1881, a small group of men met in the basement of St. Mary's Church in New Haven, Connecticut. Called together by their 29-year-old parish priest, Father Michael J. McGivney, these men formed a fraternal society that would one day become the world's largest Catholic family fraternal service organization. They sought strength in solidarity, and security through unity of purpose and devotion to a holy cause: they vowed to be defenders of their country, their families, and their faith. Their efforts came to fruition with the incorporation of the Knights of Columbus on March 29, 1882. The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic men's fraternal benefit society that was formed to render financial aid to members and their families. Mutual aid and assistance are offered to sick, disabled, and needy members and their families. Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious, and social welfare works.
Founded in 1983, St. Julie’s Council 8397 of the Knights of Columbus has been instrumental in supporting the Parish of St. Julie Billiart in Newbury Park through funding various projects and participating in parish events. Beyond their local parish involvement, members engage in a broad spectrum of activities, contributing to notable causes such as St. John’s Seminary, Mary Health of The Sick Hospital, the Culture of Life Fund, Homes for Our Troops, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and the Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA.