State Deputy's Message

Brothers,

I would like to begin by thanking you
for the confidence you have expressed
in me by electing me to this office.
I have been fortunate in my journey
through the State chairs in having
worked with, and learned from, many
talented, committed and professional
members.  These men have labored to
improve membership, activity and
involvement at both the state and
local council levels. My goal for the
coming Fraternal Year is to continue
the growth in these areas.

One of the most important areas to the
continued success of our Order is Mem-
bership.  Our Worthy Supreme Knight has
stated that we, as Knights, are obligated to offer the benefits of
Knighthood to EVERY Catholic man.  The theme for the coming Fraternal
Year is: "Follow Me, Help Us Build up the Church".  We must follow
this exhortation and build our church, our order, our councils, by
offering all Catholic men a way to serve their communities, parishes
and families by their involvement in our Order.  This will also allow
our new members to grow in their own faith, by being around men who
daily show the virtues of Catholic Knighthood.  Thus, our commitment
is to ask EVERY Catholic man to join, as often as necessary.
Recruitment is not a once a year effort, it is an every day, all day
effort.  Remember brothers, JUST ASK!

In regard to involvement, the State Officers have committed to visiting
every Council in the state this coming year.  This is not just to bring
the greetings and news from the state council, but also to get first-
hand knowledge of the interests and concerns of the brothers at the
council meetings and activities.  This is not to lessen the value or
importance of the great work of our District Deputies, but rather, to
supplement their efforts in assisting the activities of the councils.

We have a full slate of activities scheduled for this coming year,
starting with the annual "Knights' Day on the Bay" on August 24th.  We
at the state are committed to providing our membership a great variety
of charitable and social events throughout the year.  In this regard, I
ask that all Grand Knights and Program Chairmen check on dates of state
functions so as not to have council functions compete.  Also, if
councils are running events, please make sure to get the word out to the
rest of the membership in the state.  This will let our Brothers know of
events in which they might want to participate, and also increase
involvement in your council functions.

I look forward to working with all of you as we strive to take the Rhode
Island jurisdiction to new and greater heights.  In order to accomplish
this goal, I offer my total commitment, effort and enthusiasm.  I ask
for yours as well.  Lastly, I humbly ask for your prayers as we embark
on this effort.  Together, we can "Build up the Church", and our
beloved Order in Rhode Island.

      Vivat Jesus,
      Steve Ciolfi

      State Deputy for the Jurisdiction of Rhode Island