Month: September 2026

Brother Mark Sullivan is our Knight of the Month for August. Mark exemplifies the spirit of charity and service through his consistent dedication to council, parish, and community activities. During the Our Lady of the Pines Parish Picnic, Mark volunteered his time cooking hotdogs and hamburgers, helping ensure a successful and enjoyable event for parish families and guests. Mark also assisted with the council’s Soccer Challenge, one of the Knights of Columbus youth programs that provides grade school children the opportunity to participate in friendly competition while developing their soccer skills and sportsmanship. Beyond these events, Mark is a dependable and consistent volunteer who can always be counted on to lend a hand whenever needed. His willingness to serve and his commitment to supporting the mission of the Knights of Columbus make him a valued member of Council 11730.

The Vrooman Family as our Family of the Month. Brother Andrew Vrooman, his wife Megan, and their children Porter, Woodrow, Roslyn, and Bosco exemplify faithful family life, parish involvement, and dedicated service to the Our Lady of the Pines community. Brother Andrew is always willing to lend a helping hand whenever the parish is in need. Most recently, he played a key role at the OLP Parish Picnic, where he spent countless hours grilling hamburgers and hot dogs for more than 500 parishioners. His cheerful spirit and commitment to serving others helped make the event a tremendous success and provided a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends to gather in fellowship. Megan serves as the parish’s Communications Director, where she leads digital strategy, editorial leadership, and community engagement initiatives. She oversees the parish website, social media platforms, and marketing materials, ensuring consistent messaging and effective communication throughout the parish community. Megan also manages editorial content, oversees parish magazine production, and leads digital campaigns that strengthen engagement and connect parishioners with the life of the parish. In addition to her professional contributions, Megan is actively involved in parish ministries, including the Mothers of the Pines. Through this ministry, she coordinates features for the parish magazine and encourages families to share photographs and stories that highlight the vibrant faith life of our parish community. Her efforts help foster a strong sense of belonging and connection among parishioners. Together, Andrew and Megan demonstrate a deep commitment to faith, family, and service. Through their generosity, leadership, and active participation in parish life, they provide a wonderful example of Christian family values for our council and parish community.

Council 11730 is proud to recognize SK Deacon Bill Bollwerk as our Knight of the Month for his extraordinary service, leadership, and dedication to both our parish and our council. Deacon Bill is also a trusted advisor to our Pastor, offering wisdom and insight on many matters affecting the Parish Council and the continued growth of our parish community. His willingness to serve wherever needed demonstrates his deep commitment to the Church and its mission. As our Acting Chaplain, Deacon Bill provides invaluable spiritual guidance and support to our brother Knights. His commitment to the faith extends far beyond the council, as he faithfully serves on the Parish Finance Council, ensuring responsible stewardship of parish resources. In his role as Parish Bookkeeper, he dedicates countless hours to managing the financial operations of the parish with professionalism, integrity, and care. In addition, Deacon Bill leads Baptismal Preparation Classes, helping new parents understand and embrace the responsibilities and blessings of raising children in the Catholic faith. He is also an integral part of the Called & Gifted program, helping parishioners discern and develop their God-given charisms so they may more fully participate in the life and ministry of the Church. Through his humble leadership, tireless service, and unwavering faith, Deacon Bill exemplifies the principles of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity that define the Knights of Columbus.

Council 11730 is proud to recognize Brother Dick Schubert and his wife, Lady Terry Schubert, as our Family of the Month for their outstanding dedication to our parish, council, and community. Dick and Terry recently hosted a day retreat focused on Benedictine spirituality, centered on the timeless rhythm of ora et labora (prayer and work) as taught in the 1,500-year-old Rule of St. Benedict. Participants were enriched through silent reflection, guided conferences on humility and listening, lectio divina (prayerful Scripture reading), and the opportunity to join the monastic community in praying the Liturgy of the Hours. Their efforts provided a meaningful spiritual experience that strengthened the faith of all who attended. Brother Dick faithfully serves as the Council Lecturer, consistently bringing thoughtful, inspiring, and relevant messages to our meetings. His reflections help keep our council grounded in faith and focused on our mission of charity, unity, and fraternity. Lady Terry serves with distinction as Vice President of the Ladies of the Forest Auxiliary, where her leadership and commitment contribute greatly to the success of the organization and its many activities.
Dick also played a key role in the council’s annual Peach Sale. This year, the council received and distributed 572 small boxes and 714 large boxes of peaches. The event raised approximately $2,700 to support the charitable works of the council.