Brother Knights;
In the past we had an editor, but his employment outside of the area made it difficult for him to continue writing for the Council. However, I am please to inform or membership that in recent months Brother Chris Atwood has started a new job  in Yarmouth and has agreed to the task of editing and producing the K of C newsletter. Welcome back Brother Chris Atwood.

It is my desire to have the bulletin published and distributed to all Brother Knights quarterly. Previously, the bulletins were mailed out to members at a high cost to Council, now the bulletins will be given out at our meetings and we will ensure that some a placed in the back of the three parish Churches for distribution. 

The objective of the bulletin will be to inform all members of the various activities happening within the Council. With this in mind, I express my thanks to the Committee Chairs that have provided information for this newsletter. I addition, I would like to express sincere thanks to the phone committee, which has been doing an excellent job of informing members and their families of important activities that have been occurring in our community, Church and Council.

Anyone having worthwhile information and an interest in sharing this with other Brother Knights through the newsletter should contact Brother Chris Atwood at 742-5364.

Again many thanks to those who are participating in this our first K of C Council 2181 news bulletin!
Vivat Jesus 
Cal Kent 
Grand Knight

Program Director’s Report:

As program director, it is my role to work with the Grand Knight in providing leadership and guidance in Council programming. The Program Director is also responsible to ensure that all activities carried out under the Surge Program are reported to the appropriate State and Supreme Officials.

The Surge with Service Program was established by the Knights of Columbus a number of years ago to encourage participation by Brother Knights in a wide range of activities.  These activities include; Church, Community, Council, Family, Membership, Public Relations and Youth. The Surge Program provides an opportunity for each member to participate in activities of interest to that member. Councils that have effective Surge programs will fulfill the aims and goals of the K of C. 

It pleases me to inform you that Council 2181 has a very strong and active Surge program, which is constantly being recognized across Nova Scotia. Our Council has received many awards in recognition of this service. And our success has been due to no small part to the many contributions and hours of volunteer work that our Grand Knight, Activity Directors and membership have contributed over the years. Council 2181 is fortunate to have a large membership of Brother Knights who are ready to get involved in the wide range of activities that the Surge program carries out.

The Activity Directors have been encouraged to find assistance to help fulfill their mandate. If you are interested in being more involved, please contact the Activity Director or me. The continued success of our Council depends on the active participation of all.

Brother Phillippe Doucet 
Program Director 

Pope John Paul II referred to the Knights of Columbus as the “right arm of the Church”, and it is the duty of the Knights to support the efforts of the Church and its priests. Council 2181 helps the priests and the Church in as many ways as possible. Brother Knights serve as choir members, Mass ushers, greeters, alter servers, and lectors. Brother Knights’  provide ministry at correctional centers, lead bible studies, serve on church committees, provide financial assistance to vocations. The K of C contributes to the Sacrament of Confirmation by donating rosaries to each of the confirmed. The Knights also honour alter service by hosting banquets and providing certificates of recognition to those who serve. Brother Knights are also found at hospitals and nursing homes comforting those in need. The Knights are involved in helping to arrange for the celebration of the Youth Mass. Council 2181 works to present “Light up for Christ” by decorating and lighting a Christmas tree at St. Ambrose as well as praying and singing Christmas Carols and hosting a reception following the tree lighting ceremony. 

Council 2181 proposes to continue these many services and will work with Father John to identify new programs and activities for K of C participation. During Lent, the K of C will look to being involved “in the way of the Cross”. In May Council will propose a devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary by having Brother Knights reciting the Rosary.

Brother Victor Comeau/ Brother Chris Atkinson 
Church Activity Director & Assistant 

Over the years, Council 2181’s Rappie Pie fundraising initiatives has been very successfully in raising funds to assist various Council activities. These events require a great amount of work and dedication. Presently, Council has a team organizing theses dinners. Others interested in getting involved are encouraged to do so.  Our next Rappie Pie fundraiser is scheduled for the 24th of February. 

Brother Bob LaFave 
Council Activity Director

Community luncheons are also held at the Knights Hall every Tuesday from 12:00 noon to 1:00pm and attract around 150 people. Anyone wishing to get involved are encouraged to contact Phil Kitter for more information.

The Council Hall may also be rented out for community events and/or catering. Those wishing to rent the K of C hall should contact Don Usher @ 742-9454. For catering information, please contact Phil Kitter @ 742-3474 or Cal Kent @ 742-7090.

Anyone Brother Knight with spare time or interested in volunteering for Community activities are encouraged to contact the program Chair.

Brother Gene Heroux 
Community Activity Director
 742-3474/740-3393 

The Surge for Youth program is currently preparing for its annual free throw basketball competition. This program is offered to youth ages 8 to 14 and is held at a local, district and state level. Awards are presented to the youth based on standing.

In the summer, Council 2181 will also sponsor a fair kick soccer competition. Council has ordered the kits and are planning to implement the program in conjunction with the Yarmouth soccer program this summer.

The K of C are also involved with Youth floor hockey program that is being held at the Youth Centre Thursday nights. Those interested in assisting in this should call Joe Bishara at 742-1172.

In order to have a successful Youth program, assistance is needed. If you would like to help out with the Fall free throw competition, or any of the other upcoming events please call the Youth Program Chair @ 742-7288.
Brother Richard Hubbard 
Youth Activity Director

Every month, Council chooses a “Family of the Month” in recognition of a family’s involvement in the Church and community. “Family of the Month” names are also sent to Supreme where a 100 names are chosen for a family statue. In the past 2 years 3 families have received this award and include; Brouther D. Amirault, Brother G. Moulaison and Brother Kevin Cann. Congratulations to these families!

Brother Greg Huskins
Family Activity Director

The Council's web site: www.kofc.yarmouth.org