Knight of the Year Hails from Diocese of Tucson

The Knights of Columbus held its annual state convention earlier this summer and several key accomplishments were recognized within the Diocese of Tucson.

Among the awardees was Ray Obral, who was named Knight of the Year. Obral is a parishioner at Our Lady of the Desert in Tucson. Obral joined the Knights in May 2000, and says he joined because, “When you become a Knight, you're given a rosary and you're encouraged to pray every day and I thought you know this is right and it's right for me."

Obral, a transplant from Cleveland, said he also found fellowship in the Church when his family moved to Arizona. "I really enjoy working bingo events, helping in the kitchen, and meeting new people." Obral says Knights are tasked with supporting priests and helping the parish however possible. Obral said he helps landscape the parish and beautify the campus.  Though only men are permitted to join the Knights, "I tell anyone who is interested in joining a council, give us 10-12 hours a year. This is a family organization so bring your family to the first meeting and listen in on what we do."

The Knights of Columbus is the World’s largest Catholic family fraternal service organization. Orbal says members will find like-minded Catholics, their mission statement is Building a Bridge Back to Faith, "this is one of the best things I have ever done," Obral proudly said.

Other Knights and service awards from the Diocese of Tucson recognized at this year’s convention from the Diocese of Tucson were:

Life – awarded to Fr. Patrick J Murphy Council 3136 out of Casa Grande
Community – awarded to Bishop Salpointe Council 4584 out of Sierra Vista
Council of The Year – presented to Our Lady of the Desert out of Tucson
Family of The Year – was presented to the Gaveline family out of St. Andrew the Apostle in Sierra Vista

Three Knights from the Diocese of Tucson were elected to serve in leadership roles for the upcoming year, they are:

Larry Powers, State Treasurer – Bishop Salpointe Council 4584 in Sierra Vista
Bobby Nielsen, State Advocate – Roy Champeau Council 8077 in Tucson
Rich Tracy, State Warden – Roy Champeau Council 8077 in Tucson

Arizona ranks in the top ten in charitable works among the Knights of Columbus. Father Michael J. McGivney, an Irish Priest, founded the Knights of Columbus in 1882. Today, there are more than two million Knights worldwide.  In Arizona, more than 18,000 men are members of the Knights of Columbus. You can learn more about the Arizona Knights of Columbus at their website.