EB Meeting Minutes from July 28, 2024

Posted by James Kubinski on

Meeting Called to Order

  • Executive Board Meeting called to order by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, at 19:00 EDT.

Opening Prayer

  • Opening Prayer offered by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley.

Roll Call of Officers

  • All Board members present or accounted for.

Reading of the Minutes

  • Minutes of previous Executive Board meeting were read and accepted.

Officers Reports

    • International Advocate, Walter Winkle:
      • Following a meeting regarding Knights on Bikes in New Mexico, he has been in contact with the designated point of contact from the New Mexico State Council.  He has established a line of communication, but hasn’t really found out too much as of yet. 
      • There was discussion regarding an email email purported to be from the Knights of Columbus of Quebec.  In summary, the email stated that Quebec KofC would “support a woman’s right to choose”. There was no signature and it was reported that the previous State Deputy of Quebec would look into it further, but it appears to be an altered letter from approximately 3 years ago.  It is believed to be a fraudulent communication with the intent of causing division within the Knights of Columbus.  If anyone within our organization were to receive such a communication please contact International Advocate, Walter Winkle, and International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley immediately.
    • USA National President, Angelo Chiodo:
      • Reported that everything within the United States is good.
    • USA National Vice President-Pacific TimeZone, Paul Padilla:
      • Brother Paul discussed the California Knights of Columbus Convention. He stated that the new State Deputy for California is a member of Knights on Bikes but no longer rides. He also stated that the new State Deputy has created what they are calling the Knights of Columbus Motorcycle Ministry, and he would like to work with the State Deputy to have California adopt Knights on Bikes International.  Brother Paul also had some questions/thoughts regarding the current process for ordering patches from our vendor, Ringold.
    • USA National Vice President-Central TimeZone, Brian Rohrbaugh:
      • Brother Brian stated he had new members in Indiana and he purchased the patches himself and will deliver them to the new members to help grow the state.
      • Brother Brian reported that he has had a several membership inquiries from KofC members that had initially reached out to KonB USA but did not received a response.
    • International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley:
      • Brother Bob stated that we will, of course, accept membership applications from anyone that initially reaches out to KonB USA as it is appearing that the group is not very active.
      • Brother Bob also stated that the National Vice-Presidents should continue to reach out to each other for help when it’s needed.
    • USA National Vice President-Eastern TimeZone, Monk:
      • All Eastern Time Zone States are doing good at present time.
    • Canadian National President, John Vidal:
      • Brother Johnny V stated that Knights on Bikes USA have moved their rally dates to the same days as the Knights on Bikes International rally.
    • International Chaplain, Fr. Sinclair:
      • Father Sinclair  named the following upcoming feast days that could be worthwhile dates for KonB groups to consider organizing a ride/event:
      • May 21st Feast of Father Jaggerstatter
      • Aug 13th- Feast of Father M. McGivney
      • Nov 23rd- Feast of St. Columbinus
      • Feb 7th- Feast of Our Lady of Grace

New Business

  • There was recently a meeting that took place between members of the KonB International Executive Board and members of the New Mexico State Board.
    • The New Mexico State Board members have expressed concerns about having Knights on Bikes membership in their State, citing an event that took place nearly 3 years ago.  
    • Per the New Mexico State Deputy, it was determined that a member of the New Mexico State Board would work with the the KonB International Advocate, Walter Winkle, to rectify this issue.
    • The New Mexico State Deputy stated that in the future he would be open to exploring the option of bringing Knights on Bikes International into the State of New Mexico.
    • Since the meeting, Brother Walter has reached out to the point of contact from the New Mexico State Board.  There has been some correspondence, but as of lately the communication coming from the New Mexico State Board point of contact has been sparse.
  • There was a discussion regarding KonB members having girlfriends present at KonB (and KofC) functions, specifically overnight functions.
    • While it is outside the bylaws of both the Knights of Columbus and Knights on Bikes for an unmarried couple to share a room, this is a decision that needs to be made by the people involved and should have no outside influence from Knights on Bikes as to what they do. 
    • The Knights of Columbus Constitution states that couples should be married. 
    • Father Sinclair then gave his views on cohabiting and the fact we need to stay above scandal. He repeated that an unmarried couple should not sleep together in the, however this should be the domain of the council or the state in question.
  • There was discussion regarding the process for ordering crests (patches) from the supplier, Ringgold.
    • There seems to have been instances in which new KonB members are being contacted by other members outside of KonB regarding their membership in an attempt to draw these men away from Knights on Bikes International.  It is thought that this may be happening when these newer members place their patch orders.
    • Br. James Kubinski, International Administrator, had stated that he has had email correspondence with several new/prospective KonB members that had reported having been contacted by other members about Knights on Bikes that were not affiliated with Knights on Bikes International.
    • It was determined that moving forward, the State President of each state should place the order for patches for new members.
      • The State President can coordinate with the new members to receive payment, and to get the new member his patch however is convenient for both parties.

Old Business

  • KonB Trademark
    • Still pending—nothing new to report.
  • 2025 International Rally
    • From Br. George Guiterrez, Florida State President:
    • Brother George stated that he is putting together a flyer, and once finalized and approved by the Executive Board, he will send it to Br. James Kubinski to send out to the KonB membership.
    • Hotel rooms for the rally will be $139 a night without breakfast or $149 a night with breakfast included.
    • Tentative Schedule:
      • Monday—folks to arrive/there will be a meet and greet.
      • Tuesday-—will begin with a rosary before breakfast and followed by a long ride to shrines and churches in the area followed by dinner.
      • Wednesday—will be a rosary before breakfast followed by the business meeting and a police escorted ride to Daytona and then dinner following.
      • Thursday—will be a ride to Mass and check out of the hotel. 
      • For those interested, there will be a ride to Key West following the official conclusion of the rally after Mass on Thursday.
    • Brother George has stated that he is challenging Florida to match the number of bikes coming to the rally.
    • There will be a vigil for members who have passed the dates and time to be worked out and passed on to the membership.
    • Fees and overall costs for the Rally beyond the hotel are still a work in progress. 
    • Brother Angelo thanked Brother George for all the hard work he has put in.
    • Brother George stated that the Archbishop of Florida is looking forward to riding with Knights on Bikes at the Rally.
    • Brother Judd suggested that Fl KonB set up a website for people to order T-Shirts and Challenge Coins.

Closing Prayer

  • Closing Prayer offered by International Chaplain, Fr. Sinclair at 20:35 EDT.

Meeting Adjourned

  • The meeting was adjourned by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley at EDT.
  • The next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, September 22nd, 2024 at 19:00 EDT.

 

Walter Winkle Appointed as International Advocate

Posted by James Kubinski on

Greeting KonB Brothers,

We are pleased to announce that Brother Walter Winkle has been appointed to the position of International Advocate for Knights on Bikes.  As a Past State Deputy for the Michigan Knights of Columbus, Walter is well-qualified and abundantly knowledgable when it comes to all things Knights of Columbus.

Congratulations to Brother Walter!

EB Meeting Minutes from May 19, 2024

Posted by James Kubinski on
  • Meeting Called to Order
    • Executive Board Meeting called to order by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, at 19:00 EDT.
  • Opening Prayer
    • Opening Prayer offered by Brother Lawrence Stewart.
  • Roll Call of Officers
    • All Board members present or accounted for.
  • Reading of the Minutes
    • Minutes of March 24, 2024 were read and accepted.
  • Officers Reports
    • International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, reported that things have still be pretty quiet overall.  He has received inquires from the Knights of Columbus in the Phillippines.  Michigan will be doing a Eucharistic Procession in Sault Ste. Marie for the Feast of Corpus Christi, which there will be a Memorial Mass for Brother’s Dale Grace and Dennis Mailloux at this time.
    • Canadian National President, John Vidal, reported that on June 1st there will be a Memorial Mass for Brother Dennis Mailloux taking place in St. Catherines.  On May 25th there will be an ordination of a Brother Knights as a Deacon in the Church.  Also on May 25th, following a dedication for Brother Dennis Mailloux at the shrine, there will be a cigar and wine night.  On September 10th there will be a run to the Marty’s Shrine.
    • USA National President, Angelo Chiodo, reported that a new State President, Fred Sotomeyor, was appointed for New Mexico.
    • Canadian National Vice President, Thom Hargreaves, reported that Alberta has been doing well and was an active part of their State Convention.  A number of new members have contacted Thom about joining KonB.  Thom also state the he felt all states should be active in their Knights of Columbus State Conventions.
    • USA National Vice President-Pacific Region, Paul Padilla, report that KonB participated in Father Dave’s Bike Blessing and there were about 25 bikes present.  He also reported that a number of councils had donated to help replace the pews at a local church.  KonB plans to be active at the California State Convention, and there will be a follow up at the next executive Board meeting.  They have a table at the convention and are doing the best they can to add membership.
    • USA National Vice President-Mountain Region, Judd Hopkins, reported that Knights on Bikes had a booth at the Colorado state convention and picked up some new members.  He also reported that he’s trying to get a handle on Idaho KonB.  He also stated his local area is working to holst a staek and cigar night in June with the date to be determined.  KonB will also be participating in the Memorial Day service on Memorial Day.
    • USA National Vice President-Central Region, Brian Rohrbaugh, discussed that he seems to be losing some new members realtively quickly after their initial contact.  He believes that they are being misled into joining the other group of KonB.  This might be caused by people clicking on the “KonB USA” site as opposed to the KonB International site.  He also stated that we need to keep everything positive and hopefully we will all become one gorup in the near future.
    • USA National Vice President-Eastern Region, Monk, reported the he read a message to Florida Knights on Bikes from Brothers Bob “Ace” Bagley and James Kubinski at a meeting in Panama city.  Florida is eager for the 2025 Rally.  At the Florida State Convention there was a ride for vocations with the State Chaplain and other Knights on Columbus State Officers attending.  There is a Cigar and Scotch night planned with the State Officers.  Brother Monk reported that he has reached out to both Georgia and Rhode Island.  Also, New York continues to do well.  He also reported that having the two KonB groups has seemed to cause confusion amongst some.  There was nothing new to report on Puerto Rico.
  • New Business
    • John Stone Cross Country Ride
      • Brother John Stone is planning an East-West Coast ride June 18 through 22.  He is looking for any Brother KonB that would like to join him for portions of the ride.  When his route is established it will be published so that if Brothers want to join him along the route they may ride part of the way with him.  This might be considered a fundraiser in the future if done annually.
    • KonB Banner
      • Canadian National President, John Vidal, inquired about a KonB banner that he had seen posted on facebook, as he was interested in possibly getting one for KonB Canada.  International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, stated that he would ask about it and pass along any information.
    • Ride to The Wall
      • There are a number of Brothers from California that are taking part in a run to the Wall in Washington DC.  They will be publishing their route in case any Brother would like to join them along the way…even if it’s just few a few miles.
    • KonB and Supreme
      • Canadian National Vice President, Thom Hargreaves, stated that while attending the funeral of a Canadian KofC member he met with a KofC Supreme Director whom he has known for several decades.  He asked what Supreme’s viewpoint is on KonB, and the Supreme Director said that he would reach out with an answer when he has a chance to inquire.
    • Patch “crest” Process
      • There was discussion about adjusting the process for obtaining patches.  This discussion was in an effort to ensure that KonB USA is not intercepting members from the real KonB.  This discussion was tabled and will be revisited at a later date.
        • To help alleviate this, Brother James Kubinski said that he can adjust the KonB Welcome Email to include verbiage about ignoring inquires from other groups that are claiming to be a part of KonB, when in fact they are not.
    • KonB International Advocate Vacancy
      • At the next board meeing a vote will take place regarding the position of International Advocate.  The candidates that have accepted their nomiations are Brother Walter Winkle (Michigan), Brother John Stone (Florida), and Brother Dax Chauvin (Ontario).
  • Old Business
    • KonB Trademark
      • The trademark application is still pending.  We are hoping for a status change in July.  There is a Cease and Desist letter that has been provided by the lawyer that has assisted with the trademark application.  International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, will send a copy to Brother James Kubinski per his request.  Founder, Raymond Medina, felt it was up to the board as to when to send the letter.  After discussion it was determined that it would make sense to wait until trademark approval to send out the letters.
    • 2025 International Rally
      • There will be an updated at the next EB meeting.
  • Closing Prayer
    • Closing Prayer offered by Brother Lawrence Stewart.
  • Meeting Adjourned
    • The meeting was adjourned by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley at 20:30 EDT.
    • The next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, July 28, 2024 at 19:00 EDT via Google Meet.

EB Meeting Minutes from March 24, 2024

Posted by James Kubinski on
  • Meeting Called to Order
    • Executive Board Meeting called to order by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, at 19:00 EDT.
  • Opening Prayer
    • Opening Prayer offered by International Chaplain, Father Sinclair.
  • Roll Call of Officers
    • All Board members present or accounted for.  Guests in attendance include Florida State President, George Guiterrez, and Michigan State President/International Administrator, James Kubinski.
  • Reading of the Minutes
    • Minutes of January 21, 2024 were read and accepted.
  • Moment of Silence
    • International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, requested a moment of silence in honor of International Advocate, Dennis Mailloux.
  • Officers Reports
    • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, reported that his group had just finished a lunch run that had ended at a local hospital.  Father also stated that they would be doing a Stations of the Cross Run on Good Friday going to 14 different churches.  Father also stated that he had offered a Mass for Brother Dennis.
    • International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, stated everything had been quiet and he had nothing new to report.
    • Canadian National President, John Vidal, reported he had appointed Ontario State President, Thom Hargraves, to the position of Canadian National Vice President to replace Brother Dennis Mailloux until the next election cycle.
      • Canadian National Vice President, Thom Hargreaves, introduced himself to the board.
    • Canadian National President, John Vidal, also reported that Brother Mike Holly will assume the duties of Ontario State President.
    • USA National President,  Angelo Chiodo, reported he had just finished a “Way of the Cross Ride” with KonB Members in Texas.  He also stated that he was happy to see that Brother Jesus Chavez was also present. There were about 35 Bikes present for the ride.  He also stated that he was planning to go to Sturgis, South Dakota for the Annual Rally there if anyone wanted to join him.
    • USA National VP-Central Time Zone, Brian Rohrbaugh, had nothing to report.  He did state that he plans on visiting Missouri, Illinois and Michigan over the summer.
    • USA National VP-Eastern Time Zone, Monk, had nothing new to report.  He did state that New York was still doing great and he had no response from Georgia, but he still wants to hold and East Coast rally.
    • Canadian National Vice President, Thom Hargreaves, reported that they had a member to be ordained in June and KonB members would be attending to show support for the member and his Council.
      • There is a Living Rosary on their Calendar with a date to be determined.
      • On June 2nd there will be Veterans Ride in Ottawa, J.P. Rickard is in charge.  More information to follow.
      • There will be a Memorial Mass for Brother Dennis Mailloux on June 1st.
  • USA National VP-Mountain Time Zone, Judd Hopkins, was having weather-related connectivity issues.  He had nothing new to report.
  • New Business
    • International Advocate Position
      • International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, stated that due to the passing of Dennis Mailloux, this position will need to be filled. He stated that he talked to the Michigan Immediate Past State Deputy, Walter Winkle, about the position.  Brother Walter expressed an interest and said that he would have a clearer answer following the Michigan KofC State Convention.
      • Discussion ensued among those in attendance.  Other names suggested were Michigan State President/International Administrator, James Kubinski and London Diocese President, Dax Chauvin.
      • International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, stated that if anyone has any other ideas to please forward the names to him.
  • Old Business
    • KonB Trademark
      • Nothing new to report at this time.
    • 2025 International Rally
      • Florida State President, George Gutierrez, reported on the 2025 rally:
      • The hotel will be the St Augustine Hotel and the cost is anticipated to be $149 per night with breakfast included.  Check in will be June 23rd and check out will be June 26th. The hotel has provided a meeting room and there will be an area for a “KonB store” at the rally.  There will be options for early check-in/late check-out for anyone needing an extended stay at the hotel.  This hotel is the same location where the movie Caddy Shack was filmed.
      • Florida KonB is working on some rides to take place during the rally.
      • Following the rally there are also plans for an optional ride to the Florida Keys for anyone interested.
      • Florida has also created a Facebook page for the rally to facilitate communications and it currently has 175 members.  The group can be accessed via this link:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/362707459562699/.
      • International Administrator, James Kubinski, stated he will post the Rally Information on the KonB social pages and the the website once finalized and ready for distribution.
      • Florida State President, George Guiterrez, also stated that Florida members plan on attending the KonB State Meeting.  KonB members from Alabama, North Carolina and possibly Georgia will be attending as well.
    • KonB Puerto Rico
      • Brother Angelo asked if Ringolde could help with issue of having Puerto Rican flag crest available.
      • Florida State President, George Guiterrez, stated that there was a Florida KonB member that is traveling to Puerto Rico.  This member was also planning to meet with the Puerto Rican KonB members and try to get everything working correctly.  He also stated that Brothers Ramon C. and Founder Raymond Medina have been in contact with Puerto Rico KonB members and gave them a blessing to do create their patches locally.
      • Following that statement there was a long discussion between the members of the board trying to decide how we should handle Puerto Rico.  Any decision on Puerto Rican guidance will be tabled until we hear back from the Florida member.  The only suggestion made was at this time to continue letting Brother Ramon C. and Founder Raymond Medina continue offering guidance to Puerto Rico since it sounds like they have an established rapport.
  • Additional Comments
    • International Administrator, James Kubinski, asked if everyone liked using Google Meet for the meeting worked for everyone.  All attendees stated that they thought it worked very well and we should continue to use it.
      • He also reported on upcoming events taking place in Michigan.
        • Eucharistic Escort/Procession for the Feast of Corpus Christi taking place in Sault Ste Marie in June.
        • Michigan Meetup taking place in August near Traverse City
        • A possible ride starting in Detroit crossing over into Canada and then Crossing back into Michigan along with Canadian KonB members.
        • 2nd Annual Dale Grace Memorial Steak-Out taking place April 20th, 2024.
        • The Detroit Diocese will be hosting their annual kickoff party for the riding season on May 11th,
        • There’s a Bike Blessing taking place on May the 18th in Memphis, Michigan.  Hosted by Detroit KonB and KofC Council #10501 and supports Michigan Right to Life and the Spero Pregnancy Center.
        • Michigan Knights on Bikes has been invited to attend a Parish Festival in Caseville, Michigan.
  • Closing Prayer
    • Closing Prayer offered by International Chaplain, Father Sinclair.
  • Meeting Adjourned
    • The meeting was adjourned by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley.
    • The next meeting is scheduled for Sunday May 19th 2024 at 19:00 EDT via Google Meet.

Considerations when using KonB email addresses

Posted by James Kubinski on

Greetings Brother KonB,

Recently, there has been some confusion regarding the use of email addresses that are used specifically for KonB purposes.  The confusion tends to arise when a person uses an email address that was originally created for a different purpose/officership.

For example:

A person creates the email address DetroitPOD@yahoo.com; and then a few years later, they then become the State President, but continue using the POD email address.

There have been instances in which this has caused confusion amongst members, particularly newer members.  A possible solution would be to ‘hand off’ the email account to the new officer when they officially take over their new position.  If you would like any assistance with this, please reach out to knightsonbikesinternational@gmail.com and I would be happy to assist.

Thank you, and God Bless,

James Kubinski
KonB International Administrator

EB Meeting Minutes from January 21, 2024

Posted by James Kubinski on
  • Meeting Called to Order
    • Executive Board Meeting called to order by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, at 19:00 EST.
  • Opening Prayer
    • Opening Prayer offered by USA National VP-Pacific Time Zone, Paul Padilla.
  • Roll Call of Officers
    • All Board members present or accounted for.
  • Reading of the Minutes
    • Minutes of November 26, 2023 were read and accepted.
  • Officers Reports
    • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, had nothing to report other then he continues to pray for KonB too become one organization again.
    • International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, had nothing to report.
    • International Advocate, Dennis Mailloux, had nothing to report.  He stated we were still waiting for dates and hotel information for the 2025 KonB International Rally. When they become available they will be sent out.
    • Canadian National President, John Vidal, had nothing to report.
    • USA National President, Angelo Chiodo, reported that they’re getting ready for the 2025 KonB International Rally and things are beginning to move slowly.
    • USA National VP-Eastern Time Zone, Monk, reported that he has been working closely with KonB members in New York to help get the state organized.  He also reported that Florida had a great turnout for the Archbishop Ride. Also he would like to try to organize an Eastern Timezone Meet Up.
    • USA National VP-Mountain Time Zone, Judd Hopkins, had nothing new to report. He did State that Wyoming is now on board with two new KonB members.  New Mexico needs guidance and should we reach out to them.  USA National President, Angelo Chiodo, suggested reaching out by email. He also stated that we need to be proactive and the board supports this.
    • USA National VP-Pacific Time Zone, Paul Padilla, stated that members attended the San Francisco March for Life and there were about 5,000 people in attendance. He also stated that the Pacific time zone is expanding membership and the State president of California is doing a great job. The State president had a meeting open to all can be members in the state and reviewed the bylaws. The presidents of the diocese have been holding face to face meetings to help the state organize and keep growing. He also stated that if someone joined KonB just to get a vest with colors we need to pull those patches. We also need to continue reaching out to those members who left and continue to try the bring them back to KonB.
      • USA National VP-Mountain Time Zone, Judd Hopkins, also stated we need to continue to do things the right way.
  • New Business
    • NONE
  • Old Business
    • Spanish Bylaws
      • Brother Luis Torres from Puerto Rico reported that they had received the bylaws and he along with other officers were working with Rheingold to develop a patch for our new Puerto Rican Brothers.
        • Brother Monk reported he will continue to work with Brother Luis.
    • KonB Trademark:
      • USA National President, Angelo Chiodo stated that trademark discussion will take place at the next meeting in March.  He also said keep doing the things we are supposed to do.
  • Closing Prayer
    • Closing Prayer offered by International Chaplain, Father Sinclair.
  • Meeting Adjourned
    • The meeting was adjourned by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley.
The next meeting is scheduled for Sunday March 31st 2024 at 19:00 EDT.

Guidance Regarding “Declaration Fiducia Supplicans”

Posted by James Kubinski on

Brother KonB,

Below you will see thoughts regarding the recent Declaration Feducia Supplicans from KonB International President and Michigan State KofC State Faith Director, Bob (Ace) Bagley:

—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Merry Christmas!

A few days ago the Dicastery on the Doctrine of Faith released the Declaration Fiducia Supplicans.

What is imperative for us to remember is that we are to follow Christ and Scriptures. The Catholic teaching on the sacrament of marriage is unchanged. Marriage is between one man and one woman. Same sex marriage will not be blessed in the Church because sin can not be blessed. What is a sin in God’s eyes is still a sin.  In the history of our church we have had good Popes and bad, the very first Pope, Peter, denied Christ three times. We must continue to follow Christ and Scripture, do this and we will not be led astray.

Below are some explanations and bullet points that were sent to me by a member of Clergy that may help you understand what is going on and I highly recommend talking to your own Clergy for guidance:
As you know, yesterday the Dicastery on the Doctrine of Faith released the Declaration Fiducia Supplicans.  I have read the document and I encourage each of you to read it.

 

First, I draw your attention to the statement from the USCCB. It is clear and concise:

“The Declaration issued today by the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (DDF) articulated a distinction between liturgical (sacramental) blessings, and pastoral blessings, which may be given to persons who desire God’s loving grace in their lives. The Church’s teaching on marriage has not changed, and this declaration affirms that, while also making an effort to accompany people through the imparting of pastoral blessings because each of us needs God’s healing love and mercy in our lives.” – USCCB

Second, I am sure that people will look to you for guidance regarding yesterday’s Declaration. I offer you the following talking points in the hope that you may find these helpful.

A disclaimer: I don’t intend this to be a complete treatment of the Declaration. It would be helpful if you read the entire document so that you can understand these talking points in their context:

·       Blessing has many meanings in the English language.  One of those meanings is “approval”; this is not the definition being used in this document.  This Declaration explains the meaning of imparting a blessing of God upon people.

·       The Declaration is an edifying theological treatment of the role and purpose of blessings within the Church and the Christian tradition.

·       Some blessings are given to anyone who comes forth in good will to ask God for His grace.

·       With this kind of blessing, the Declaration presumes that people requesting them do so because they recognize their need for God’s grace to help them to overcome whatever difficulty they are encountering.

·       People ask for blessings for many things such as: physical health struggles, mental health struggles, and sometime moral struggles. We do not need to wait for physical or mental healing before we impart a blessing, nor do we need to wait for moral perfection before imparting a blessing. The blessing is intended to help them in their struggle.

·       These blessings are to be spontaneous blessings, in response to spontaneous requests (i.e. you are asked after Mass, or in the store, or on pilgrimage, etc.). We often receive these kinds of requests and they should be familiar to us.

·       These pastoral blessings are not to be given within rituals, nor are they to be given according to any standardized form, nor are they to be done with the intention of being witnessed by a group of people.

·       This is a spontaneous blessing of the individuals coming forward; it is not in any way to be construed as a blessing of their unions.

·       Pastors are to remember that “any blessing will be an opportunity for a renewed proclamation of the kerygma, and invitation to draw ever closer to the love of Christ.” (44)

I hope that this information is helpful to you as you attempt to shepherd your people according to the mind and heart of Christ and the Church. Catholic teaching on the sacrament of marriage is unchanged. We are asked to respond generously to those who request our prayers and the aid of divine grace.

This was sent out by the Bishop of the Kalamazoo Diocese, and I found it very helpful. I pray that it helps you during this time of confusion.

Love and Pray for each other!
PAX
Bob Bagley
Michigan State Faith Director

EB Meeting Minutes from November 26, 2023

Posted by James Kubinski on
  • Meeting Called to Order
    • Executive Board Meeting called to order by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, at 19:00 EST
  • Opening Prayer
    • Opening Prayer offered by International Chaplain, Father Sinclair.
  • Roll Call of Officers
    • All Board members present or accounted for.
  • Reading of the Minutes
    • Minutes of September 24, 2023 were read and accepted. There was one addition in regards to Dodger Stadium Protest, that being the relieving of Bishop Strickland of his duties.
  • Officers Reports
    • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, stated that we need to work the Texas State President to get KonB members realigned with KonB International.
    • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, stated that members took part in the Annual Nun Run and a Rosary Run where they prayed for unity within KonB. They also rode to Louisiana to pick up the Silver Rose and have a Stations of the Cross Ride in planning for Good Friday.
    • International President, Bob Bagley, stated  that the Call to Holiness Ride went very well with members from North America coming to Michigan to take part in the ride and the seminar. He also stated that Cardinal Burke complimented KonB on their devotion.
    • International President, Bob Bagley, also stated that KonB Michigan had the following events coming up: Annual Michigan KonB Christmas Dec 1st to 3rd 2023, as well as the the Feast of Corpus Christi, which is the 1st week of June.  Michigan is also starting an State Rally that will be held in August near Traverse City.
    • Canadian National President, Johnny Vidal, stated that Canada will be doing Christmas in July again in 2024 and he had no information on the Rosary Run at this time.
    • International Advocate, Dennis Mailloux, had nothing to report and thanked everyone for the prayers while he’s been sick.
    • USA National VP-Central Time Zone, Brian Rohrbaugh, had nothing new to report at this time. Work has been keeping him extremely busy.
    • USA National VP-Mountain Time Zone, Judd Hopkins, had nothing to report.
    • USA National VP-Pacific Time Zone, Paul Padilla, stated that the Silver Rose went very well and they had a great deal of participation from Knights on Bikes members. He also stated that KonB received a letter from 4th Degree congratulating them for all their work.  He also stated that 17 members attended the State Convention and were well received.  There are members planning on riding to San Francisco to take part in The March for Life.
  • New Business
    • Deceased Brother
      • There was a moment of silence held for a recently deceased Canadian Member, Wayne Cormier.
    • New Member
      • New KonB member, Luis Torres of Puerto Rico, introduced himself to the board. Brother Luis is a 3rd Degree member and is excited to be joining KonB with his fellow KofC members from Puerto Rico.
      • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair welcomed brother Torres to KonB.
  • Old Business
    • Translating Bylaws into Spanish:
      • International Advocate, Dennis Mailloux, stated that he is working on it but getting the correct translation for some of the words has been an issue.
      • Brother Lawrence stated he is willing to help out with the translation.
      • USA National VP-Pacific Time Zone, Paul Padilla, and Brother Luis Torres, stated that they will help with the translation also.
      • Brother Lawrence suggested we approach Brother Jesus Chavez to work on the translation to help keep his mind busy. Brother Jesus Chavez responded that he would enjoy doing this and we’ll start on it in a new week.
      • Brother Luis Torres stated that KonB patches can be in English, but he really needs the bylaws in Spanish for his members. Brother Lawrence stated that they need to be translated directly to help the new members understand KonB.
      • Brother Luis Torres stated that Knights on Bikes will be very active within Puerto Rico. They are planning an event from January 12 to January 14 to introduce Knights on Bikes.  International Advocate, Dennis Mailloux, stated that if there are any issues to contact him directly.
      • Brother Lawrence stated that our Founder, Brother Raymond Medina, is from Puerto Rico originally and he will provide Brother Luis Torres with his information so they can talk.
      • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, stated that he thinks the translation into Spanish is a good idea, especially if we want to expand into Mexico.
    • KonB Trademark:
      • International President, Bob Bagley, stated that the trademark had gone through and Knights on Bikes holds the trademark for the patch, crest, name and motto.
      • The lawyers will supply a cease and desist letter to be sent out and we must decide who to send it to.
      • International Presdient, Bob Bagley, then read the names of the 42 members who are currently suspended from KonB.
      • After much discussion it was decided that the letters should only go out to the 19 members who created the issues within our organization to start with.
      • USA National VP-Pacific Time Zone, Paul Padilla, stated that we should include Brother Enrique Bonilla on this list also.
      • The trademark lawyers will be handling the letters.
    • KonB Crests Supplier:
      • International Presdient, Bob Bagley, and USA National President, Angelo Chiodo, will be meeting with Chris (owner) from Ringolde to discuss keeping them on as our provider for patches. Chris doesn’t like what’s going on (regarding suspended members) and also stated she doesn’t own the rights to the cross we wear on the back of our vest.
      • Brother Lawrence Stewart stated that the Ringolde people are good people caught in a bad situation.
    • KonB Texas:
      • Brother Lawrence Stewart also stated that with everything going on in Texas their District Deputies would like KonB members in Texas to work with KonB International. He also stated that the District Deputies informed the State President of Texas that he has no power within the Knights of Columbus.
      • It was suggested that Knights on Bikes should make an appearance at the Knights of Columbus State meeting in Texas in May. This way we can let members know everything that is taking place within their State and Country.
      • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, stated that he thinks this is a good idea.
      • International President, Bob Bagley, stated that Texas will need a new State President and suggested Brother Mike Savage would be a good point person for appointing or electing a new State President.
    • 2025 International Rally in Florida:
      • At this time there is no new information on the 2025 Rally that is being held in Florida.
      • Brother Lawrence Stewart stated that if nothing else we need to get the dates for the Rally locked down so members and their families can start planning their attendance.
    • Addition of Disclaimer:
      • It was suggested that Knights on Bikes add a disclaimer similar to that being used by the Knights of Columbus Latin Mass page. Brother Dennis stated that he will review it and see if we need to use a disclaimer.
      • USA National VP-Mountain Time Zone, Judd Hopkins, feels that the current mission statement States everything that needs to be said.
      • At this time we will table the discussion of the disclaimer until further research is accomplished and we will revisit it at a later date. Also we will place the Rally under old business and revisit it at the next meeting.
  • Closing Prayer
    • Closing Prayer offered by International Chaplain, Father Sinclair.
  • Meeting Adjourned
    • The meeting was adjourned by International President, Bob Bagley, at 20:10 EST.