29 Men of Many Backgrounds Advance to Third Degree in Knights of Columbus Ceremony at Sacred Heart Chaldean Parish

SASKATOON — Twenty-nine Catholic men formally advanced to the Third Degree of the Knights of Columbus during an Exemplification of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity held Feb. 8 at Sacred Heart Chaldean Catholic Church.

The ceremony was hosted by Chaldean Council 2695 with the support of parish pastor and council chaplain Fr. Bassim Shoni. Among those exemplified was Fr. Isaac Atta Mensah, pastor of St. John Bosco Parish in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.

Saskatchewan State Deputy Marte Clemente Nogot congratulated the new Third-Degree Knights, encouraging them to live out the Order’s core principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism — values established by founder Blessed Michael McGivney.

“As Knights, your actions reflect not only your personal character but also the integrity of our brotherhood,” Nogot said, urging the men to lead through service and faith.

Several of the newly exemplified members spoke about their desire to deepen their commitment to service. Jorge Carvalho, originally from Brazil and now a Saskatoon resident, said he joined the Knights to contribute more actively to both parish and community life. Abin Seby, a member of the Syro-Malabar Catholic community, said the fraternity strengthens both charitable outreach and personal faith.

Past State Deputy Joe Riffle noted the diversity of the group, highlighting the presence of men from various cultural and liturgical traditions, including Chaldean, Syro-Malabar, Ukrainian, Filipino, Indigenous, and other backgrounds.

The exemplification was conducted by the Saskatoon Degree Team, with Knights and families from councils across the region in attendance.

For more information about joining the Knights of Columbus in Saskatchewan, visit kofcsask.com/join-us.