Spiritual Activities: Programs and activities that strengthen faith and further develop strong Christian character. 

Examples include participating in Mass; holding a retreat; holding Christmas/Easter pagents; sponsoring or attending "World Youth Day" activities; participating in religious discussion, participating in the stations of the Cross; or sponsoring a weekly youth Mass.

Service Activities: Volunteer pograms that give back to the community and help those who are less fortunate. 

Examples include sponsoring food drives; visiting the sick, elderly, and imprisoned; starting literacy programs/volunterring as tutors; sponsoring blood drives; helping conduct a Special Olympics event; organizing a bike safety campaign; or conducting a recycled toy drive.

Circle Activities: Sporting and social events that encourage fun and the forming of friendships among peers. 

Examples include annual picnics; trips to the amusement park; father/son events; weekend canoe trips; bowling parties; Parish pancake breakfasts; organizing car washes to raise money.

Membership Activities: Programs and activities that maintain and encourage membership.

Examples include conducting open houses; setting up display booths to distribute pomotional materials and answer questions; speaking to church youth groups; setting up goals for your circle; presenting top recruiters with awards; and advertising in the church bulletin.

Squires FAQ:

What is the difference between the Columbian Squires and the BSA?

Both organizations seek to encourage fraternity, leadership abilities and community service in young boys. The biggest practical difference is that the BSA has a strong emphasis on camping and outdoor activity where the Squires have a strong emphasis on Catholic Spiritual activity. There are certainly some events that could be organized together. 

What is the relationship between the Squires and the Knights of Columbus?

The Winooski Knights will be sponsors and councilors of the new Squires Circle.

What safety measures are taken in appointing counselors?

Knights of Columbus policy requires all “Youth Leaders,” that is, any Knight whose position requires a substantial interaction with young people under his supervision, to submit an application for the position and to pass a screening of his background before being appointed to the position. Circle counselor applications and references will be checked to the satisfaction of the grand knight and the state deputy. The background check, to be initiated by the Supreme Council office and to be conducted through a law enforcement agency, would include a review of the candidate’s criminal record, if any, including motor vehicle violations. Appointment to the counselor position will be effective only after the Supreme Council office has completed a successful background check.

What is your next step to start the SFX circle?

First we need to see if there are at least 10 interested candidates. We’re also looking for a few of the parents and hopefully a teacher to volunteer their services.