Since early in 2009, Knights from Tuscaloosa Council 4083 have been holding a weekly scriptural rosary at the Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center for the wounded veterans who suffer from Intellectual Disabilities. Last year, through their relationship with the TVAMC Chaplain Rev. John Bailey, the members of Tuscaloosa Assembly 2527 learned that no Catholic Masses had been celebrated for nearly three years at the Birmingham 117th Air National Guard Refueling Wing; they knew they had to act. Sir Knights secured the necessary permissions and facilities, and provided the funding for monthly Masses on the base. As a result of their efforts, personnel undergoing weekend training no longer have to choose between their service to their country and practicing their faith.

For more information, please call (205) 614-3014.

The opening ceremony was per protocol.

The opening ode was “America the Beautiful”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

The prayer was offered by the Faithful Admiral.

The Faithful Comptroller called the roll. All officers present except Faithful friar, Faithful Captain, Faithful Purser, Faithful Inner Sentinel and all three Faithful Trustees. All were excused.

The minutes of the previous meeting (August) were read, accepted as read and passed.

Bills read and referred:  None

Communications:

• FN mentioned that Frank has resigned as Faithful Captain and nominated Tim D. to act in his stead. This was motioned, 2nd and passed.
• Steve G set up computer link with Captain (Chaplain) B. from Afghanistan. We got to talk live with him.
• Saturday, 10/23 is the dedication of this system.
• Steve G read the VSM’s letter to raise 50% funding for future military priests in the seminaries.

Faithful Navigator’s report:  - FN, Herman

• Some Sir Knights attended mass by Fr. A.  on October 16th at The 117th Air National Guard meeting in Birmingham
• Ave of Flags were put up for Justin J.’s Funeral.
• Continue to have Rosary and Communion Service at the VA on Wednesday mornings.
• Fr H. has Mass on the first Wednesday.
• We had two Knights dressed out for the Silver Rose. Unfortunately it never arrived.

Faithful Purser’s report:  - (Steve L not here) Ryan had a note on activities. Beginning balance of $xxx, deposits of $xxx, due outs of $xxx and and ending balance of $xxx.

Committee Reports:

1. Veterans Relations Committee – Steven W. Volunteer and Rosary Ongoing.  VAVS meeting 10/25. Will email Steven L to ensure he knows.
2. Welfare Committee  -  Vic and Bernie asked to be on this.
3. Ceremonial/Activities Committee –  Steve G went over 5th Sunday turnout and some changes in protocol.
4. Admissions Committee – Bob and Robert S. are ready to advance. Motioned, 2nd and passed. 2/18 is next 4th degree ceremony ay OLV.

New Business:

• Ryan mentioned funerals are no longer escorted by TPD.
• Steve G asked for $xxx to purchase another Netbook for OEF contacts. Motioned, 2nd and passed.

3rd Degree Report:  - DGK Ryan

• Friday, 10/21 is the next Tailgate.
• Trunk or Treat 10/28. Still need more trunks. $7/child and buy tickets for food. Steven W is available due to surgery postponement.
• Saturday, 10/29 is workday. Want to repair fence, repair sheetrock wall and move couches.
• 5th Sunday breakfast is 10/30. Steve L needs help in kitchen. Steven W will be there to collect cash.
• Monday 10/31 is 40 Days for Life. We have the 7am – 7pm shift. Fr Rick may do a rosary then.
• Asked to form the 2nd degree team for a ceremony in December

Good of the Order:  Herb M. , Eric N., Rev B., 40 Days for Life, “snow” in Afghanistan,  Jeff and Joni J., Fr Rick.

Closing  Ceremony:   As per protocol

Closing prayer: “Our Father”, “Hail Mary” and “Glory Be”.

Closing ode:  The National Anthem

Steven Weems
Faithful Scribe

The opening ceremony was per protocol.

The opening ode was “America the Beautiful”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

The prayer was offered by the Faithful Admiral.

The Faithful Comptroller called the roll. All officers present except Faithful friar. Faithful Captain, Faithful Purser, Faithful Outside Sentinel and all three Faithful Trustees.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read, accepted as read and passed.

Bills read and referred:  None

Communications:

• Steve G. brought up conversation with Bishop B. on tornado relief efforts.
• Read note from Chaplin B. from Afghanistan.
• Read note from Director of Programs (Supreme) on “One Voice”, “Life” and “Columbia” articles.
• Read note from State Master Eddie Lipscomb on Knight of the Year.

Faithful Comptroller’s report:  Ryan mentioned the $100 stipend for the mass at the 117th ARW. This has already been approved.

Faithful Navigator’s report:  See agenda attached. Additions:

• All have been emailed the 4th Degree drill manual.

Faithful Purser Report:  See agenda

Committee Reports:  See agenda

New Business :  See agenda

• Prayer Service  at HS 9/23 for the Silver Rose. We need an escort the entire time it’s here.
• Steven mentioned the Ignatius Press fund raiser idea and passed around flyer.
• Steve G was asked to be the Honor Guard commander.

3rd Degree Report:  LDBBQ/Tailgate is coming up.

Good of the Order:  See agenda. Additions: Mrs Burns (Richard K’s MIL), Francis K. (Herman’s friend), Joe B.’s list and the church’s book.

Closing  Ceremony:   As per protocol

Closing ode:  The National Anthem

Steven Weems
Faithful Scribe

Please remember that our first Wednesday Mass at the VA chapel is coming up on April 6.  Fr. Holloway says the mass beginning at 10am.  If you are available, please try to attend.  On the other Wednesdays during the month, a scriptural rosary service is held in the chapel at 10am.

Update: A new date/time has not been provided yet.

Please contact me if you have anything that you’d like to see added.

Thank you,
Ryan