On November 20, 1898, the National Council of Knights of Columbus, as it was known at the time, granted a new charter to the Catholic men of Bristol, council number 379. One hundred and twenty years later, the men gathered to celebrate not only the anniversary of the council, but also to recognize a group of 50-year members whose collective service to the church through the Knights has been more than 1,000 years. Unfortunately, due to sickness and distance, some could not joint the celebration, however six members were present. Among those who joined were Knights of Columbus State Deputy Michael Dziok and his wife, Vicky; eight past Grand Knights of Council 379; the 50-year honorees and many families and friends. Knights Gilbert Oliver, John P. Andrade, Victor Andrade, Domenic Canna, Matteo Castigliego, Paul D’Amico, Robert Dodd, Louis Giusti, George Haray, Santa Matrone, Augustine Nunes, Edward Oliver, Angelo Panzarella, Dr. Joseph Perroni, Joseph Rego, David Simoes, John Simon, Jerome J. Squatrito and Joseph Vaccaro were honored for their many years of service. The celebration commenced with Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church where the Knights were welcomed by Father Henry Zinno, pastor, and Father Stephen Battey, assistant pastor, pictured above.
