Faith and Charity in Action: KofC 5052 members lead Francophone Catholic Charismatic Convention 2024

Faith and charity in action best describe the mission of the Knights of Columbus since their founding over 130 years ago. Pope John Paul II once called the Knights the "strong right arm of the Church" for their unwavering support and charitable works. The Knights of Columbus Council 5052 continues Father McGivney’s vision by supporting families, the parish, and surrounding communities.

From August 30 through September 1, 2024, the 8th Annual Francophone Catholic Charismatic Convention took place at John Paul II High School. Spearheaded by two of the council’s dedicated members—Ernest Ncho, Director of Family Programs, and Fr. Franck Agbowai, Chaplain—the event attracted delegates from the U.S., Canada, Haiti, and various French-speaking regions of Africa.

The convention, centered on the theme “Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful for a livelier Church” (Acts 1:8), aimed to deepen faith and renew participants' spirits. This marked the second time the event was held in Dallas, further showcasing the vibrancy and growing visibility of the Francophone community in North Texas. The Knights of Council 5052 provided financial support and distributed prayer cards in French and English, as well as Life Journey prayer books.

Key topics at the convention included the historical and ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the Church, the role of the Holy Spirit in Christian life, and how the gifts, charisms, and fruits of the Holy Spirit contribute to the Church’s mission.

A highlight of the event was the closing Mass, celebrated by Bishop Edward Burns and Auxiliary Bishop Gregory Kelly, with special guests Bishop Sosthène Léopold Bayémi of Cameroon and Bishop Jerome Feudjio of the U.S. Virgin Islands. "It was phenomenal—my first time seeing a Mass celebrated by four bishops," commented Ncho. The 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, led by the new District Master of the 3rd Texas District, Kevin McGillis, provided a dignified color corps, emphasizing the event's significance.

Council 5052 is deeply grateful to Fr. Franck and Ernest Ncho for their dedication, which contributed significantly to the success of the convention. The council also extends its thanks to the organizing committee, the attendees, and the volunteers—many of whom are parishioners of Fr. Franck’s French Mass. This convention aligned with the Knights’ mission to empower Catholics, especially men, to live their faith through charity, unity, and fraternity while supporting families, parishes, and communities.