A summary report from Brother Antolin “Tony” Canonigo
- Brother Ed Brancheau (Financial Secretary) and Brother Antolin Tony Canonigo (Deputy Grand Knight) attended California State Council Convention.
- During the May 2026 California State Convention, the Knights of Columbus celebrated massive philanthropic milestones. State achievements included collecting 4,001 pounds of food for Caruthers pantries, supporting the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, and hosting the Blessed Michael McGivney relic pilgrimage across local archdioceses. The Knights of Columbus focus heavily on Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism. Key accomplishments and highlights from the California State Meeting include:
- Massive Food Drive Donations: Members from northern and southern California chapters donated a massive \(4,001\) pounds of rice and beans for a local food pantry in Caruthers, CA.
- Charitable Initiatives: The state council backed the Special Operations Warrior Foundation and hosted a statewide Intellectual Disabilities (ID) program to support individuals with special needs.
- Blessed McGivney Tour: Concluding the 2025-2026 Columbian year, councils statewide hosted the Reliquary of Blessed Michael McGivney, which was venerated alongside the Los Cristeros relics.
- Humanitarian & Community Awards: Councils across the state—such as the St. Ann’s Parish Council 2329—received top awards in events like the State BBQ Cook-Off and were officially named Humanitarian Councils for their volunteer work.
- Annual Tours and Gatherings: The event included the “Trek to the Trees” tour, a golf tournament, and the Annual Meeting where the 4th Degree Exemplifications were finalized.
- At the May 2026 California State Convention, the Knights of Columbus celebrated massive philanthropic and operational milestones for the 2025-2026 Columbian Year. The statewide order’s accomplishments included donating 4,001 pounds of food to local pantries, recognizing Council 920 as the Humanitarian Council of the year, and raising funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.
- The annual meeting, which included the State Annual Meeting and Golf Tournament, highlighted both charitable and community achievements across the state. Key accomplishments and milestones celebrated during the 2026 convention period include:
- Massive Food Drive: California councils united to donate 4,001 pounds of dry goods to the food pantry in Caruthers, CA.
- Humanitarian Excellence: Council 920 was officially honored with the title of Humanitarian Council of the year.
- Support for Heroes: Substantial funds and ongoing support were raised for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation to assist the families of fallen and wounded special operations personnel.
- BBQ Competition: St. Ann’s Parish Council 2329 (Porterville) took home the 1st place title at the State Meeting’s BBQ Cook-Off, while the Northern California Chapter secured the People’s Choice Award.
- Pilgrimage & Veneration: The convention season featured the statewide tour and veneration of the relics of Blessed Michael McGivney and the Los Cristeros (Mexican Martyrs) across local parishes.
- Star Council & State Awards: State Deputy Ken Rose’s administration finalized the State Awards and Star Council recognition metrics to acknowledge top-performing chapters and officers.