4th Degree Candidates Travel to New Haven.

Our unique journey begins like this. It was a random thought. Between fellow 3rd degree Knights from Council 12798 while vacationing together this past February. Thomas Medina and wife, Erica who are extended family to us, joined us for breakfast. My sons, Jeremy Castro, Colby and Gavin were seated with my wife Michelle and I. Thomas said, "Wouldn't it be great if we could get our 4th Degree in New Haven?"

Once we returned, I found contact information and sent an email to Patrick Donovan Assembly #2459. Within a couple of hours I receive a response. He kept asking, "Where are you from? Did you say Texas?" He sent me the information and details immediately and away we went looking for flights and lodging!

By God's grace and blessing, we all had the opportunity to set out on our small Pilgrimage to New Haven, CT. Our own Grand Knight, Ricky Rios and our council #12798 supported with a blessed donation.

On Sunday, April 23rd, my 3 sons and my best friend received their 4th Degree in St. Mary's Catholic Church. The birthplace of the Knights of Columbus. Words cannot describe the pride and humble honor this really was. From the minute we walked into the church for Mass that morning, we were greeted and welcomed by almost every CT state dignitary, along with fellow brother Knights. It truly felt like we were seeing family that we hadn't seen in a long time. Everyone was excited to meet and take pictures with the "Knights from Texas" as we were called. Our wives were treated with such love, respect, and kindness from everyone as well.