Knights of Columbus Oakville - Marian Council 3881

GRAND KNIGHT’S MESSAGE

JULY 2010

As Marian Council 3881 continues all activities throughout the summer months, we have just completed our recent Installation of Officers on June 8, 2010, and many of you are probably wondering who exactly is this new Grand Knight with the name “Eckstein” is that Jewish or German….? Well the surname of Eckstein was a German and Jewish nickname or ornamental name from the German - Eckstein which stands for (Corner-stone). The name was applied to someone who was trusty and reliable.

My family lived in Montreal, Ville St. Laurent to be exact where we experienced some very cold winters in La Belle Province. During my past 11 years at Marian Council 3881 I have realized many of our members have also roots in Montreal along with many fond memories of the good old days.

I married my wife Sue in 1990, and our children Michelle and Mike were born in 1992, and 1994. We moved to Oakville from Toronto in 1996, and immediately joined Mary Mother of God parish in North East Oakville. At MMOG parish on Sunday mornings at 11:00am mass you will find your new Grand Knight assisting as usher, while my wife Sue plays piano in the choir.

Now that you know a little bit more about myself, I would like to mention to all members we have just completed one of our more challenging years at Marian Council which resulted in a historic vote on January 12, 2010 regarding our Columbus and Marian halls. At our combined Marian Council and Oakville Columbus Association (OCA) meeting, members unanimously approved transitioning to a new fraternal hall, and proceeding with the sale of 1494 Wallace Road subject to several conditions.

Although our sale was temporarily delayed due to issues beyond our immediate control, we anticipate approaching the final completion and sale of our property this year. During this transitional period your executive will need the continued support of all members to ensure our Marian Council 3881 remains vibrant and strong throughout our community. As well, it will give our membership the opportunity to remain focused on a renewed enthusiasm for the four pillars of our order, Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism.

Although I am familiar with many of our members and the wonderful work completed by many of our active knights, I am also looking forward to meeting with those I have not met to date, to ensure I get to know you personally and hopefully remember your name.

At the completion of our milestone vote in January this year one of our members sent to me a recommended constant prayer, which I would like to share with you…

Universal Prayer by Pope Clement XI

Lord,
Guide us by your wisdom,
Correct us with your justice,
Comfort us with your mercy,
Protect us with your power.
Grant this through Christ, our Lord.

Mary, seat of wisdom, pray for us, Amen.

Vivat Jesus!
Andrew Eckstein
Grand Knight – Marian Council 3881