The Honoris (Continued)

Michael O’Neill a member of Saint Patrick’s Basilica Council #12158 since 1958.

Michael O’Neill, a Charter Grand Knight of Saint Patrick’s Basilica Council #12158 in 1998 and a member of the Knights of Columbus since 1958, had an idea to generate greater awareness of the work done by the Knights – and our founding father – Fr. Michael J, McGivney.

On December 10th, 2011, he then gathered a group of fellow Knights at Saint Patrick’s Basilica in Ottawa to share his ideas for a national shrine dedicated to Fr. McGivney. The choice of location for the meetings was not a coincidence. It was the home parish for Council #485 in Ottawa – the first Knights of Columbus Council in Ontario – established on January 28th, 1900. It was also the proposed location for the national shrine.

The stated purpose of The Honoris was to create a physical site that could draw the Catholic laity as well as brother Knights together so that they may better understand Fr. McGivney’s legacy as a Catholic priest but also as the founding father of the Order. In support of this initiative, The Honoris features:

A unique statue of Fr. McGivney donated by Deacon Kevin Daudlin, State Deputy (2013 – 2015).

International Headquarters (1 Columbus Plaza). Photo: https://www.fathermcgivney.org/

A first-class relic of Fr McGivney located in the Kneeler in a secure and protected encasing in front of the Statue was gifted to Saint Patrick Basilica in 2021 by Brother Brian Caulfield, Vice Postulator for the Cause of Fr. McGivney and is available for view and prayers.

The permanent display of the statue and kneeler in this place of honor was completed and blessed on May 11th, 2013, by Archbishop of Ottawa, Terrence Prendergast, after a special Thanksgiving Mass. Several dozen people attended the event, located at the lower level of the Basilica called the scavi, including the Ontario State and Supreme Council officers and representatives.

Now that the site had been approved, Michael O’Neill, with his team has set about drafting and distributing prayers to start and close Knights of Columbus Council meetings, Pledge cards, a memorial program, and Prayers for the start of their Ceremonial degrees all with the intent of bringing attention to their founder, Fr. Michael J. McGivney.

For further information please contact the Honoris, Michael O’Neill, here.