Michael O’Connor, a Pennsylvania native, was named supreme secretary of the Knights of Columbus during their annual conference in Toronto.
The Diocese of Allentown reports that the annual gathering drew approximately 2,000 attendees from around the world – including knights, their families and members of the clergy, including about 100 members of the Catholic hierarchy – making it one of the largest international Catholic gatherings in the city since Toronto hosted World Youth Day in 2002.
“The KOC convention is always a moving and inspiring experience of dynamic prayer and missionary commitment,” said Bishop Barres.
“I am personally so proud of Mike and Pat O’Connor and their contribution to the global mission of the Knights of Columbus.
“Our beloved Schuylkill County – home of Cardinal Brennan, Cardinal O’Hara, Father Walter Ciszek, S.J., Archbishop Joseph Kurtz and Bishop Ronald Gainer – continues to provide outstanding servants of the universal church.”
“I’m honored to have been elected to this position,” said O’Connor. “I’m humbled, coming from a small Frackville council, to have been entrusted with this role.”