Star Council FY2023-2024

Butler Council 866 is honored to be counted among the Star Councils for the Knights of Columbus. The Star Council Award recognizes the efforts councils put forth in continuing Father Michael McGivney’s mission. To earn Star Council, a local Council must:

1. Earn the Columbian Award by completing four credits worth of activities in each of the 4 Faith In Action categories:
   1. Faith Programs
      1. Building the Domestic Church – This kiosk with literature from the Catholic Information Service is available in the Council Meeting area and taken to many events at the parishes we serve. 
      2. RSVP – Butler Council has been pleased to support the formation of Father John Ferguson through his time in Seminary with stipends and scholarships.
      3. Holy Hour – Many of our Knights are regular attendees at the Monthly Holy Hours at St Andrew and St Peter Churches as well as the adoration chapel at St Michael Church. 
      4. Rosary Program – Butler Council 866 has a long history of dedication to the Rosary of our Lady. We pray the Rosary together at least twice monthly.
   2. Family Programs
      1. Food for Families – Butler Council has continued it’s mission of service to families through the Community Dinner Program.
      2. Family of the Month – This popular long running program has seen great growth under current Family Director Bob Seibel.
      3. Keep Christ in Christmas – 2023 saw the first time in many years that Butler Council sponsored the Keep Christ in Christmas Poster Contest. Five students from butler chosen to receive a gift card to Playthings, etc. for their winning poster entries.
      4. Consecration to the Holy Family – This year saw Butler Council advertising for and providing prayer cards for the Consecration to the Holy Family event. 
   3. Community Programs
      1. Global Wheelchair Mission – Butler Council made a donation to the Global Wheelchair Mission 
      2. Disaster Preparation Fund – Butler Council established a disaster fund and gave two disbursements to families in need from this fund. 
      3. Free Throw Championship – 2024 saw Butler Council sponsoring a Basketball Freethrow event at Butler Catholic School
      4. Essay Contest – Once Again, Butler Council sponsored the 8th Grade Essay Contest at Butler Catholic School 
   4. Life Programs
      1. March for Life – Butler Council made available donations to support local people wanting to participate in the March in Washington, DC.
      2. Special Olympics – A donation was made through the PA State Council to support local Olympians.
      3. Novena for Life – Advertising and prayer cards for the Novena for Life were sent out and our Council encouraged members and families to pray the Rosary daily. 
      4. Christian Refugee Releif – Butler Council supported local students on a medical mission trip to Guatamala where underserved local peoples were offered needed opportunities for medical care.
2. Earn the Father McGiveney Award for Membership growth.
3. Earn the Founders Award to support the Order’s Mission in Insurance and Fraternal Benefits. 
4. Be compliant with all Safe Environment training and background Checks.

As of June 30, 2024, Butler Council 866 is listed among the councils in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that have achieved Star Status. Congratulations to our Brother Knights and thank you for all your support to make this dream a reality.