Father Michael McGivney and the Knights of Columbus

This title in the New Vision Books series is the first children’s chapter book to tell the inspiring story of Blessed Michael McGivney, founder of the Knights of Columbus. The author did extensive research through many published and unpublished sources to write the story of the humble priest in in an easy-to-read style, while shedding light on some of the common misunderstandings of the man.

To tell his amazing story as accurately as possible, Emily Tennant spoke with leading experts on Father McGivney, including Brian Caulfield, Vice-Postulator for the cause, Sr. Veronica Mary Sullivan, SV, Fr. James Sullivan, pastor of McGivney’s boyhood parish in Waterbury, and John Walshe, a McGivney relative. She also visited significant places in Connecticut pertaining to McGivney’s life to make the book truly authentic.

Michael McGivney, the son of poor Irish immigrant parents and oldest of 13 children, grew up in Connecticut, dreaming of the priesthood. His ordinary life had extraordinary results: he became a holy and zealous priest, and founded the Knights of Columbus which is the largest Catholic fraternal organization in the world that does immense good for the Church and society. Most importantly, Blessed Michael McGivney, who died young at 38 years old, through his strong devotion to God, the Church and humanity, shows us that holiness is achievable for everyone.