Grand Knight Vincent Lopez, center, with Knights of Columbus state deputy Michael M. Madix and Bishop Larry Silva, accepts the Triple Star Council award on behalf of Sts. Peter and Paul Council 16002. (Photo courtesy of Robert Camilleri)
More than 230 Knights of Columbus and family members gathered at the Hale Koa Hotel in Waikiki Oct. 13 to honor their explorer namesake, Christopher Columbus, and to celebrate special members and councils at the Knights’ Hawaii State Council annual Columbus Day Banquet.
The Sts. Peter and Paul Council 16002 in Honolulu was the host council for this annual event.
The evening began with the posting of the colors by a combined Fourth Degree District of Hawaii Color Corps and the singing of the national and Hawaii anthems. Bishop Larry Silva gave the invocation.
After dinner, State Deputy Michael M. Madix and Bishop Silva presented a plaque and maile lei to John Brennen of Sts. Peter and Paul Council in recognition of his 70 years of distinguished service to the Knights.
Madix also awarded plaques to the Hawaii councils who achieved “star council” status during the 2018-2019 fraternal year.
The Sts. Peter and Paul Parish hula halau and a mariachi band provided entertainment.
One of the Knights dressed as Christopher Columbus shared some humorous tales about the achievements of the “Admiral of the Ocean Sea.”
The evening ended with Bishop Silva’s benediction followed by music and dancing since federal workers had the next day, Discoverer’s (Columbus) Day off.