Knights of Columbus 
Membership
Bandera, TX

Council 10258 Welcomes 3rd Degree Knight Marcus Rubio

Council 10258 welcomed its newest 3rd Degree Knight, Marcus Rubio, on September 10, 2024. Marcus' exemplification ceremony was conducted at St. Stanislaus Church with Fr. Frank presiding; the exemplification team members included Brian Dennis, John Fassl, John Escalera and Mike Tarr. A reception followed in St. Joseph's Hall.

Exemplification of Charity, Unity & Fraternity Ceremony held July 9, 2024

Council 10258 held an Exemplification of Charity, Unity & Fraternity ceremony at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church on 09 July. The council welcomed Mathew Dunk, Daniel Ledwig, Victor Solano and Sam Sullivan as the council’s newest 3rd degree members; with Deacon Carl Rutkowski presiding over the ceremony.
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Under the direction of our Exemplification Director James Hackleman, the exemplification team consisted of Steve Cerwin, Tom Doebbler, Andrew Ribar, and John Frank.

Factoid: The first combined, public exemplification took place at St. Mary’s Church, the Order’s birthplace, on Jan. 1, 2020, with Supreme Knight Carl Anderson attending.

Council 10258’s newest 3rd Degree members: L-R. Victor Solano, Daniel Ledwig, Sam Sullivan and Mathew Dunk.

Council #10258 Welcomes Two New 3rd Degree Members

May 27 was a great night for Council #10258 as it welcomed two new members into the largest Catholic fraternal organization in the world. Receiving their 3rd Degree honors were Carlos Salas and John Habrzvk at Prince of Peace Council #7983, San Antonio. These two Catholic Gentlemen were escorted to the Exemplification of Charity, Unity and Fraternity by John Fassl, Jim Hackleman, Rick Brower and Grand Knight, Mike Lloyd. Congratulations Carlos and John.​

​Ryan Zimmel, Council #10258’s Newest 3rd Degree Member

Council #10258 welcomed Brother Ryan Zimmel into the Knights of Columbus fraternity on 16 March 2021.  Ryan received his 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree status at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, Boerne with Council #10940 presiding over the degree ceremony. Ryan was  accompanied to the exemplification by the council’s Grand Knight, Mike Lloyd, Brother Rick Brower, and his father, Alan Zimmel.  Ryan is the 3rd son of Alan to become a member of the Knights of Columbus. Congratulations Ryan.

​Brother Guy Fusco is the Recipient of 2019 Donnie Reed Award

​Brother Knight Guy Fusco was awarded the 2019 Robert Donald "Donnie" Reed Award during Council 10258's regularly scheduled meeting on 20 AUG 2019. Brother Guy, U.S. Air Force (Retired), is a veteran of the Korean War and a soft-spoken gentleman. On the night he accepted this award he did so humbly and with a story as to why he wears a Korean War Veterans hat. He explained to the council that a friend of his, who was dying of cancer (attributed to exposure to Agent Orange), bought Guy the hat and asked Guy to wear it as a symbol that Freedom is Not Free. Guy has kept that promise for so many years.  Guy is a regular fixture at the council's monthly fish fry events and meetings and has recently been making members of the council homemade crucifixes for what he says is his "Love for Jesus".
The award's name is in honor of Sir Knight Donnie Reed, US Army Ranger and Vietnam Veteran. Brother Donnie passed away on 4 May 2017 and was an active member of Council #10258 and Assembly #2465. The Donnie Reed Award recognizes Council members who display patriotism and civic duty.

Geovany Gutierrez attends Knights of Columbus 4th Degree Exemplification Ceremony

May 11, 2019 was a great milestone for one Council #10258's own, Sir Knight Geovany Gutierrez. Brother Geovany was one of 87 candidates attending the Knights of Columbus (KofC) 4th Degree Exemplification held at St. Pius X Catholic Church, Council #4298, San Antonio, TX. The KofC 4th Degree is the visible wing of the KofC, and it demonstrates the principle of Patriotism and encourages active Catholic citizenship. The other KofC principles of Charity, Unity and Fraternity are covered by the 3rd Degree.
The 4th Degree ceremony is a formal event; this event was hosted by Sir Knight Herman Poothong, District Master, Texas Second District Our Lady of Guadalupe Province. The candidates arrived at St. Pius X by 11:30 AM for registration, followed by 4th Degree candidate class pictures. The actual ceremony began at 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. A celebration of the Mass was held; followed by a social hour with more pictures being taken. A banquet closed out the day’s activities. Sir Knight Geovany was escorted to this prestigious event by Sir Knights' Tom Doebbler and James Hackleman, respectively.  Congratulations Geovany.

Council #10258 Welcomes Three New 3rd Degree Knight

Three new members of Knights of Columbus Council #10258 were welcomed into the council on 16 APR; Brothers Daniel Anderson, George Martinez, and Charles Hartman received their 3rd Degree status on 13 APR at St Mary’s Church, Fredericksburg, TX. Fredericksburg Council #9765 held a major degree ceremony, “A Knight in Day”, starting at 7 AM and ending in the early afternoon. Escorting these three gentleman were Grand Knight, Brian Dennis and Brother Shawn Groff.

Jesse Zimmel Receives Texas Star Recruiter Award

Sir Knight Jesse Zimmel was presented the Texas State Council Star Recruiter Award for his outstanding recruiting of new members to the Knights of Columbus. District Deputy #41, Michael Trevino, made this announcement during Council #10258's regularly scheduled meeting on 15 JAN 2019. Unable to attend the 15 JAN meeting, Brother Jesse was presented the Texas Star Recruiter Award by Grand Knight Brian Dennis on 19 FEB. Jesse is currently attending the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY. where he is acting as the military campus’ liaison for the academy and several local Knights of Columbus Councils in the Great Neck, NY (Long Island) area.

The Wally Butler Family is recognized as the Council's 2018 Family of the Year

Wally and Beanie Butler were recognized as the 2018 Family of the Year by Council 10258 at the Knights Christmas Social on 02 DEC 2018. Wally and Beanie have volunteered countless hours of their time and service to the St Stanislaus community over the years. Wally has been a member of the Knights of Columbus for 13 years and is always ready to help the council when asked; Beanie is an active member of St. Stanislaus Church where she is a member of the Prayer Blanket Ministry and His Holy Face Rosary Makers. Wally and Beanie live their faith every day and are shining examples of ‘Faith in Action’.

Darrell Bay is presented the 2018 Knight of the Year for Council #10258

One of the special highlights of the Council's Christmas Social, held at the Sanctus Ranch on 02 DEC, was the presentation of the council's Knight of the Year Award. This year's award goes to Brother Darrell Bay. Darrell is a much deserving Knight who has been a reliable man to answer the call of service to the St Stanislaus / St Victor Parish as well as the Bandera area community. Darrell is the Chairman for our council's very successful Annual Autumn Raffle. He consistently answers the call to help in community projects like volunteering his time to provide needed maintenance at the Triple H Equitherapy in Pipe Creek, working on a several parishioner’s housing improvements projects, collecting baby diapers for the Kerrville Pregnancy Resource Center, providing ushering duties whenever he's needed, and many more actions.  Darrell is a quit person and modestly deflects attention to others; however, his actions did not go unnoticed. Congratulations Darrell on receiving this well-deserved award.

Jesse Zimmel Attends Fourth Degree Exemplification on 7 October 2018

One of Council 10258's own, now Sir Knight Jesse Zimmel, attended a Fourth Degree Exemplification on Sunday, 7 OCT 2018 at Knights of Columbus Long Island Assembly #703, 49-18 Queens Blvd, Flushing, NY 11377. The ceremony started at 1:00 PM with approximately one hundred candidates receiving their 4th Degree.  Sir Knight Kenneth Latham Jr., New York State Deputy, presided over the event with Sir Knight Ralph Cefalo officiating as the Master of Assembly # 703.
Sir Knight Zimmel is attending the United States Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY and is an active member of the Knight of Columbus in that area. He acts as the Academy's liaison for the local KofC Council #2122, Manhasset, NY.
History of the Fourth Degree: Originally the Order had only three degrees, exemplifying the principles of Charity, Unity and Fraternity. As the membership grew, the scope and purpose of the organization increased and became more diversified. Complying with the wishes of the membership, the Supreme Board of Directors approved the Fourth Degree in 1900 and on February 22nd of that year (George Washington's Birthday) the first Exemplification of the Fourth Degree was held in New York City.

Don Ritter is Recipient of Donnie Reed Award

Brother Knight Don Ritter is the initial recipient of the Robert Donald "Donnie" Reed Award. Sergeant Major Don Ritter, U.S. Army retired, and a member of American Legion Post 157 was presented this award by Council #10258 during their 19 June meeting. Since moving to the Bandera area in 2016 Don has led the effort in placing U.S. flags on the graves of veterans in Bandera County as part of a Memorial Day remembrance. In a recent interview Don stated, "it is a privilege to participate in recognizing those who gave of themselves, and often sacrificed all, in the name of freedom. This is a must-do to remember those who served before me.”
 
The award's name is in honor of Sir Knight Donnie Reed, U.S. Army Ranger and Vietnam Veteran. Brother Donnie passed on 04 May 2017, he was an active member of Council #10258 and Assembly #2465. The Donnie Reed Award recognizes Council members who display patriotism and civic duty. Congratulations Don; your activities truly represent the primary purpose of this award, which is to foster the spirit of patriotism and to encourage active Catholic citizenship.

Five Members of Council 10258 Attend Major Degree Ceremony

Five 1st Degree members of Council 10258, to include: Geovany Gutierrez, Paul Esposito, Brooks Pique, George Wilkins, and Kevin Fitzpatrick attended a Major Degree Ceremony hosted by Holy Spirit Council #786, Holy Spirit Church, San Antonio, on 09 JUN. Accompanied by fellow Brother Knights Criss Wilson, Darrell Bay, and Sir Knight Jim Hackleman the group departed St. Stanislaus Church at 7:00 AM and arrived in time for registration and attend a celebration of the Mass. The rest of the morning involved the 2nd and 3rd Degree ceremonies, followed by lunch provided by the Knights of Columbus Council #786.  Congratulations to our newest 3rd Degree Knights.

Council 10258 Members Attend Shields of Christ Law Enforcement and Firefighters ACTS Retreat

Council 10258 had several members attend the Shields of Christ Law Enforcement and Firefighters ACTS Retreat from 7-10 JUN 2018. Brothers' Marcus Kaspar, Carlos Salas and John Fassl participated as retreatants while Mike Welborn and Russ Locke were on the ACTS Team. The retreat was held at the Omega Retreat Center in Boerne, Texas with Rev. Jimmy Drennan acting as the Shields of Christ Spiritual Director; Rev Jimmy is also the Pastor of St. Margaret Mary's Church. The retreatants celebrated a 'return' Mass at St. Margaret Mary's Church on 10 JUN.

The shields of Christ Ministry was formed in 2005, and continues to serve Law Enforcement, Fire Fighters, and Paramedics. The ministry is comprised of fellow brothers and sisters, currently serving and retired from law enforcement, firefighting, and municipal paramedics, who facilitate a unique weekend spiritual retreat.

Holy Family Portrait Presented to Brooks Pique

A portrait of the Holy Family was presented to Brother Brooks Pique, Council 10258, at the council’s regularly scheduled meeting on 18 May 2018. Brooks was the lucky recipient of this gift for being the newest member to join the Knight of Columbus, Council 10258, for Fraternal Year 2017-2018.
 
The Holy Family Prayer Program is the 17th Marian Prayer Program sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, beginning with the first program – honoring Mary under her title of Our Lady of Guadalupe - in 1979. In preparation for the 1982 Centennial of the Order, the second prayer program was initiated, which highlighted the Holy Family. Since then, the Blessed Mother has been honored by her Knights under her titles of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Our Lady of Czestochowa, Our Lady of Pochaiv, Our Lady of the Assumption, Our Lady of the Rosary and Our Lady of Charity.

Council 10258 Welcomes Robert Helbert as a New 1st Degree Knight

Council #10258 added Brother Robert Helbert to its council on 28 February after he completed his 1st Degree Ceremony.  Robert’s 1st Degree Ceremony was held at the Saint Joseph’s Hall.  Congratulations to Robert as he embarks on this very noble journey with the Knights of Columbus.
 

Council 10258 Welcomes Two New 1st Degree Knights

​Council #10258 welcomed two new 1st Degree Knights into their council on 30 January 2018.  Brothers Andy Uresti and Mike Welborn were welcomed during their 1st ceremony held at the Saint Joseph’s Hall; several Council members were present to witness the event to include: Grand Knight Shawn Groff, Financial Secretary James Hackleman, Warden Marcus Kaspar, Inside Guard Ken McBride, and Trustee 1st Year Alan Zimmel.  Congratulations to Andy and Mike for becoming members of the largest Catholic fraternal benefit society in the world.

Brother Robert Costello Receives the Council’s Knight of the Year Award

Congratulations go out to Brother Robert Costello for being awarded Council 10258’s Knight of the Year Award. This distinguished award bears witness to Robert’s unwavering service to the council; without the sacrifices of members like Robert, the council would not be able to provide the many charitable programs we support.

Council 10258 Recognizes Two Honorary Life Membership Recipients

Two brother Knights were awarded their Honorary Life Membership cards during Council 10258's meeting on 23 January 2018. Brother Ken Mazurek, a charter member of Council 10258, and Sir Knight James Hackleman were awarded their new cards by District Deputy #41 Scott Scheidt and Grand Knight Shawn Groff. Achieving this milestone in the Knights of Columbus is a prestigious honor. Congratulations Ken and James.

Brother Francisco Martinez Awarded Knights of Columbus Honorary Life Membership Award

Brother Francisco Martinez receives his Honorary Life Membership Award on 22 NOV 2017. Grand Knight, Shawn Groff, and Msgr. Frank Kurzaj presented Francisco with his award. Photo courtesy Brian Dennis.

​Brother Francisco Martinez reached a highly celebrated milestone with the Knights of Columbus by achieving Honorary Life Membership status. Msgr. Frank Kurzaj and Grand Knight, Shawn Groff, presented Francisco with this special award during Council #10258's regularly scheduled meeting on 22 NOV 2017. Brother Francisco is a recent transfer from Knights of Columbus - Council #8436, St. Ann's Parish, San Antonio. Welcome and Congratulations Francisco!

Rev. Msgr. Frank Kurzaj Awarded Knights of Columbus Honorary Life Membership Award

A great milestone in the life of any active member of the Knights of Columbus is to achieve the Honorary Life Membership Award. On 17 Oct 2017.  Msgr Frank Kurzaj (aka Fr. Frank) was awarded this esteemed honor at Council #10258's regularly scheduled meeting, with Scott Scheidt, District Deputy #41, presenting the honor.  Fr Frank became a member of the Knights of Columbus as a young priest while assigned to St. Louis Catholic Church, Castroville, TX.

Msgr. Frank Kurzaj receives his Honorary Life Card from District Deputy Scott Scheidt on 17 OCT 2017. Previous Honorary Life Members looking on include L-R: Bill Verr, Charles Batto, Tom Doebbler, George Flores, Al Kindla, and Russ Locke. Also seen is Grand Knight, Shawn Groff. Photo courtesy Brian Dennis.

Council 10258's Newest 3rd Degree Knights

Congratulations to Justin Eccles and John Fassl, Council 10258's newest 3rd degree Knights.  Bothers Justin and John achieved this honor on 16 SEP 2017, while attending a Major Degree Ceremony at  Knights of Columbus Council 4034, Fredericksburgh. Deputy Grand Knight Brian Dennis, along with Sir Knight Randy Riedlinger, escorted these two gentlemen for this honor.

Five Members of Council 10258's Receive their 3rd Degree 

Knights of Columbus Council 10258 recently had five of their members receive their Second and Third Degree status on Saturday, 10 June 2017. This major degree ceremony occurred at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, San Antonio, with Knights of Columbus Council #786 hosting the event. The ceremony included 79 Brother Knights from the Archdiocese of San Antonio; representing Council #10258 were Brothers Jesse Zimmel, Daniel Schmidt, Guy Fusco, Ernest DeWinne, and Michael Botello. Congratulations to all for achieving this important step in your life as an active member of the Knights of Columbus.

L-R: Brothers Jesse Zimmel, Daniel Schmidt, Guy Fusco, Ernest DeWinne, and Michael Botello receive their 3rd Degree on 10 JUNE 2017. Photo courtesy: Brian Dennis

Council 10258’s Newest Third Degree Knights

Brothers Criss Wilson and Mike Tarr receive their 3rd Degree on 29 OCT 2016. Photo by: Shawn Groff.

Knights of Columbus Council 10258 recently had two of their members receive their Second and Third Degree status on Saturday, 29 OCT 2016. Criss Wilson and Mike Tarr attended the major degree ceremony in New Braunfels with Council 4183 hosting the service. Congratulations Criss and Mike.

FOUNDING KNIGHTS OF COUNCIL #10258​

(L to R) Arnie Campos, Tom Doebbler, S. Joe Rodriguez, Ron Schindler, Kenneth Mazurek, Al Kindla, JM Clements, Rick Schindler, George Flores, Roy King and Bill Broomall. Not pictured: Joe LaLanne, Tim LaLanne, Eloy Palacios, and Doug Morneau.

Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to practicing Catholic men in union with the Holy See, who are at least 18 years old. A practicing Catholic is one who lives up to the Commandments of God and the precepts of the Church. Application blanks are available from any member of the Knights of Columbus.

Contact Shawn Groff at [email protected] for more information on joining the Knights.



Who Are the Knights?
The Knights of Columbus is the world's largest Catholic family fraternal service organization with 1.7 million members. It provides members and their families with volunteer opportunities in service to the Catholic Church, their communities, families and young people.

Membership Benefits
As a member of the Knights of Columbus you and your family enjoy many benefits, including 12 free issues annually of Columbia magazine, the world's largest Catholic family magazine, eligibility to join the Knights of Columbus top-ranked life insurance program, and many more family and personal benefits.

How to Join
Membership in the Knights does not require a great deal of your time but any time spent will return many times as much satisfaction.  One meeting a month, lasts from an hour to an hour and a half; Friday night fish frys during lent and each 1st Friday of the month, even a couple nights of help are appreciated, more if possible.  There are other events to get involved in but the foregoing are the biggest demand of your time.

4th Degree
Any Third Degree member in good standing, one year after the anniversary of his First Degree, is eligible for membership in the Fourth Degree. The primary purpose of the Fourth Degree is to foster the spirit of patriotism by promoting responsible citizenship and a love of and loyalty to the Knight's respective countries through active membership in local Fourth Degree groups (called "assemblies"). Certain members of the Fourth Degree serve as honor guards at civic and religious functions, an activity that has brought worldwide recognition to the Knights of Columbus.  4th Degree Knights from Bandera Council, along with Sir Knights from Kerrville and Fredericksburg constitute Hill Country Assembly #2465.

Ladies Auxiliary
The Ladies Auxiliary s main function is to SUPPORT the men and the council. They do this primarily by providing help at events, cooking for events and providing monetary help. They also generally do help with setting up and beautifying the hall for events.  Council #10258 does not currently have a Ladies Auxiliary.