Nine members of the Natchitoches Knights of Columbus traveled to Hessmer to advance to the Second and Third Degrees. St Alphonsus Catholic Church, Council 3088 hosted 33 First Degree knights for the ceremony Aug. 19.

Charity (1st), Unity (2nd), Fraternity (3rd), and Patriotism (4th) are the principles of the Knights of Columbus, and local Council 1357 exemplifies those ideals through their support of many local organizations. They are best known for their weekly bingos for charitable causes, coat donations to local students, annual Tootsie Roll Drive and Color Guard. They donate funds to numerous worthwhile community activities while supporting their local parishes.

Those members from Natchitoches who attended the ceremony, pictured on front row from left, are Stephen Llorens, Christopher La Cour, Anthony La Cour, Tommy Melder and Greg St. Andre. On back row are Barry Antee, F.J Delphin, Anthony Rachal and Chad Deranger. They were accompanied by Mike Menou, Billy St. Andre and Michael Yankowski (not pictured.)