to keep all members informed

Considerations when using KonB email addresses

Posted by James Kubinski on

Greetings Brother KonB,

Recently, there has been some confusion regarding the use of email addresses that are used specifically for KonB purposes.  The confusion tends to arise when a person uses an email address that was originally created for a different purpose/officership.

For example:

A person creates the email address DetroitPOD@yahoo.com; and then a few years later, they then become the State President, but continue using the POD email address.

There have been instances in which this has caused confusion amongst members, particularly newer members.  A possible solution would be to ‘hand off’ the email account to the new officer when they officially take over their new position.  If you would like any assistance with this, please reach out to knightsonbikesinternational@gmail.com and I would be happy to assist.

Thank you, and God Bless,

James Kubinski
KonB International Administrator

EB Meeting Minutes from January 21, 2024

Posted by James Kubinski on
  • Meeting Called to Order
    • Executive Board Meeting called to order by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, at 19:00 EST.
  • Opening Prayer
    • Opening Prayer offered by USA National VP-Pacific Time Zone, Paul Padilla.
  • Roll Call of Officers
    • All Board members present or accounted for.
  • Reading of the Minutes
    • Minutes of November 26, 2023 were read and accepted.
  • Officers Reports
    • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, had nothing to report other then he continues to pray for KonB too become one organization again.
    • International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, had nothing to report.
    • International Advocate, Dennis Mailloux, had nothing to report.  He stated we were still waiting for dates and hotel information for the 2025 KonB International Rally. When they become available they will be sent out.
    • Canadian National President, John Vidal, had nothing to report.
    • USA National President, Angelo Chiodo, reported that they’re getting ready for the 2025 KonB International Rally and things are beginning to move slowly.
    • USA National VP-Eastern Time Zone, Monk, reported that he has been working closely with KonB members in New York to help get the state organized.  He also reported that Florida had a great turnout for the Archbishop Ride. Also he would like to try to organize an Eastern Timezone Meet Up.
    • USA National VP-Mountain Time Zone, Judd Hopkins, had nothing new to report. He did State that Wyoming is now on board with two new KonB members.  New Mexico needs guidance and should we reach out to them.  USA National President, Angelo Chiodo, suggested reaching out by email. He also stated that we need to be proactive and the board supports this.
    • USA National VP-Pacific Time Zone, Paul Padilla, stated that members attended the San Francisco March for Life and there were about 5,000 people in attendance. He also stated that the Pacific time zone is expanding membership and the State president of California is doing a great job. The State president had a meeting open to all can be members in the state and reviewed the bylaws. The presidents of the diocese have been holding face to face meetings to help the state organize and keep growing. He also stated that if someone joined KonB just to get a vest with colors we need to pull those patches. We also need to continue reaching out to those members who left and continue to try the bring them back to KonB.
      • USA National VP-Mountain Time Zone, Judd Hopkins, also stated we need to continue to do things the right way.
  • New Business
    • NONE
  • Old Business
    • Spanish Bylaws
      • Brother Luis Torres from Puerto Rico reported that they had received the bylaws and he along with other officers were working with Rheingold to develop a patch for our new Puerto Rican Brothers.
        • Brother Monk reported he will continue to work with Brother Luis.
    • KonB Trademark:
      • USA National President, Angelo Chiodo stated that trademark discussion will take place at the next meeting in March.  He also said keep doing the things we are supposed to do.
  • Closing Prayer
    • Closing Prayer offered by International Chaplain, Father Sinclair.
  • Meeting Adjourned
    • The meeting was adjourned by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley.
The next meeting is scheduled for Sunday March 31st 2024 at 19:00 EDT.

Guidance Regarding “Declaration Fiducia Supplicans”

Posted by James Kubinski on

Brother KonB,

Below you will see thoughts regarding the recent Declaration Feducia Supplicans from KonB International President and Michigan State KofC State Faith Director, Bob (Ace) Bagley:

—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Merry Christmas!

A few days ago the Dicastery on the Doctrine of Faith released the Declaration Fiducia Supplicans.

What is imperative for us to remember is that we are to follow Christ and Scriptures. The Catholic teaching on the sacrament of marriage is unchanged. Marriage is between one man and one woman. Same sex marriage will not be blessed in the Church because sin can not be blessed. What is a sin in God’s eyes is still a sin.  In the history of our church we have had good Popes and bad, the very first Pope, Peter, denied Christ three times. We must continue to follow Christ and Scripture, do this and we will not be led astray.

Below are some explanations and bullet points that were sent to me by a member of Clergy that may help you understand what is going on and I highly recommend talking to your own Clergy for guidance:
As you know, yesterday the Dicastery on the Doctrine of Faith released the Declaration Fiducia Supplicans.  I have read the document and I encourage each of you to read it.

 

First, I draw your attention to the statement from the USCCB. It is clear and concise:

“The Declaration issued today by the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (DDF) articulated a distinction between liturgical (sacramental) blessings, and pastoral blessings, which may be given to persons who desire God’s loving grace in their lives. The Church’s teaching on marriage has not changed, and this declaration affirms that, while also making an effort to accompany people through the imparting of pastoral blessings because each of us needs God’s healing love and mercy in our lives.” – USCCB

Second, I am sure that people will look to you for guidance regarding yesterday’s Declaration. I offer you the following talking points in the hope that you may find these helpful.

A disclaimer: I don’t intend this to be a complete treatment of the Declaration. It would be helpful if you read the entire document so that you can understand these talking points in their context:

·       Blessing has many meanings in the English language.  One of those meanings is “approval”; this is not the definition being used in this document.  This Declaration explains the meaning of imparting a blessing of God upon people.

·       The Declaration is an edifying theological treatment of the role and purpose of blessings within the Church and the Christian tradition.

·       Some blessings are given to anyone who comes forth in good will to ask God for His grace.

·       With this kind of blessing, the Declaration presumes that people requesting them do so because they recognize their need for God’s grace to help them to overcome whatever difficulty they are encountering.

·       People ask for blessings for many things such as: physical health struggles, mental health struggles, and sometime moral struggles. We do not need to wait for physical or mental healing before we impart a blessing, nor do we need to wait for moral perfection before imparting a blessing. The blessing is intended to help them in their struggle.

·       These blessings are to be spontaneous blessings, in response to spontaneous requests (i.e. you are asked after Mass, or in the store, or on pilgrimage, etc.). We often receive these kinds of requests and they should be familiar to us.

·       These pastoral blessings are not to be given within rituals, nor are they to be given according to any standardized form, nor are they to be done with the intention of being witnessed by a group of people.

·       This is a spontaneous blessing of the individuals coming forward; it is not in any way to be construed as a blessing of their unions.

·       Pastors are to remember that “any blessing will be an opportunity for a renewed proclamation of the kerygma, and invitation to draw ever closer to the love of Christ.” (44)

I hope that this information is helpful to you as you attempt to shepherd your people according to the mind and heart of Christ and the Church. Catholic teaching on the sacrament of marriage is unchanged. We are asked to respond generously to those who request our prayers and the aid of divine grace.

This was sent out by the Bishop of the Kalamazoo Diocese, and I found it very helpful. I pray that it helps you during this time of confusion.

Love and Pray for each other!
PAX
Bob Bagley
Michigan State Faith Director

EB Meeting Minutes from November 26, 2023

Posted by James Kubinski on
  • Meeting Called to Order
    • Executive Board Meeting called to order by International President, Bob “Ace” Bagley, at 19:00 EST
  • Opening Prayer
    • Opening Prayer offered by International Chaplain, Father Sinclair.
  • Roll Call of Officers
    • All Board members present or accounted for.
  • Reading of the Minutes
    • Minutes of September 24, 2023 were read and accepted. There was one addition in regards to Dodger Stadium Protest, that being the relieving of Bishop Strickland of his duties.
  • Officers Reports
    • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, stated that we need to work the Texas State President to get KonB members realigned with KonB International.
    • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, stated that members took part in the Annual Nun Run and a Rosary Run where they prayed for unity within KonB. They also rode to Louisiana to pick up the Silver Rose and have a Stations of the Cross Ride in planning for Good Friday.
    • International President, Bob Bagley, stated  that the Call to Holiness Ride went very well with members from North America coming to Michigan to take part in the ride and the seminar. He also stated that Cardinal Burke complimented KonB on their devotion.
    • International President, Bob Bagley, also stated that KonB Michigan had the following events coming up: Annual Michigan KonB Christmas Dec 1st to 3rd 2023, as well as the the Feast of Corpus Christi, which is the 1st week of June.  Michigan is also starting an State Rally that will be held in August near Traverse City.
    • Canadian National President, Johnny Vidal, stated that Canada will be doing Christmas in July again in 2024 and he had no information on the Rosary Run at this time.
    • International Advocate, Dennis Mailloux, had nothing to report and thanked everyone for the prayers while he’s been sick.
    • USA National VP-Central Time Zone, Brian Rohrbaugh, had nothing new to report at this time. Work has been keeping him extremely busy.
    • USA National VP-Mountain Time Zone, Judd Hopkins, had nothing to report.
    • USA National VP-Pacific Time Zone, Paul Padilla, stated that the Silver Rose went very well and they had a great deal of participation from Knights on Bikes members. He also stated that KonB received a letter from 4th Degree congratulating them for all their work.  He also stated that 17 members attended the State Convention and were well received.  There are members planning on riding to San Francisco to take part in The March for Life.
  • New Business
    • Deceased Brother
      • There was a moment of silence held for a recently deceased Canadian Member, Wayne Cormier.
    • New Member
      • New KonB member, Luis Torres of Puerto Rico, introduced himself to the board. Brother Luis is a 3rd Degree member and is excited to be joining KonB with his fellow KofC members from Puerto Rico.
      • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair welcomed brother Torres to KonB.
  • Old Business
    • Translating Bylaws into Spanish:
      • International Advocate, Dennis Mailloux, stated that he is working on it but getting the correct translation for some of the words has been an issue.
      • Brother Lawrence stated he is willing to help out with the translation.
      • USA National VP-Pacific Time Zone, Paul Padilla, and Brother Luis Torres, stated that they will help with the translation also.
      • Brother Lawrence suggested we approach Brother Jesus Chavez to work on the translation to help keep his mind busy. Brother Jesus Chavez responded that he would enjoy doing this and we’ll start on it in a new week.
      • Brother Luis Torres stated that KonB patches can be in English, but he really needs the bylaws in Spanish for his members. Brother Lawrence stated that they need to be translated directly to help the new members understand KonB.
      • Brother Luis Torres stated that Knights on Bikes will be very active within Puerto Rico. They are planning an event from January 12 to January 14 to introduce Knights on Bikes.  International Advocate, Dennis Mailloux, stated that if there are any issues to contact him directly.
      • Brother Lawrence stated that our Founder, Brother Raymond Medina, is from Puerto Rico originally and he will provide Brother Luis Torres with his information so they can talk.
      • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, stated that he thinks the translation into Spanish is a good idea, especially if we want to expand into Mexico.
    • KonB Trademark:
      • International President, Bob Bagley, stated that the trademark had gone through and Knights on Bikes holds the trademark for the patch, crest, name and motto.
      • The lawyers will supply a cease and desist letter to be sent out and we must decide who to send it to.
      • International Presdient, Bob Bagley, then read the names of the 42 members who are currently suspended from KonB.
      • After much discussion it was decided that the letters should only go out to the 19 members who created the issues within our organization to start with.
      • USA National VP-Pacific Time Zone, Paul Padilla, stated that we should include Brother Enrique Bonilla on this list also.
      • The trademark lawyers will be handling the letters.
    • KonB Crests Supplier:
      • International Presdient, Bob Bagley, and USA National President, Angelo Chiodo, will be meeting with Chris (owner) from Ringolde to discuss keeping them on as our provider for patches. Chris doesn’t like what’s going on (regarding suspended members) and also stated she doesn’t own the rights to the cross we wear on the back of our vest.
      • Brother Lawrence Stewart stated that the Ringolde people are good people caught in a bad situation.
    • KonB Texas:
      • Brother Lawrence Stewart also stated that with everything going on in Texas their District Deputies would like KonB members in Texas to work with KonB International. He also stated that the District Deputies informed the State President of Texas that he has no power within the Knights of Columbus.
      • It was suggested that Knights on Bikes should make an appearance at the Knights of Columbus State meeting in Texas in May. This way we can let members know everything that is taking place within their State and Country.
      • International Chaplain, Father Sinclair, stated that he thinks this is a good idea.
      • International President, Bob Bagley, stated that Texas will need a new State President and suggested Brother Mike Savage would be a good point person for appointing or electing a new State President.
    • 2025 International Rally in Florida:
      • At this time there is no new information on the 2025 Rally that is being held in Florida.
      • Brother Lawrence Stewart stated that if nothing else we need to get the dates for the Rally locked down so members and their families can start planning their attendance.
    • Addition of Disclaimer:
      • It was suggested that Knights on Bikes add a disclaimer similar to that being used by the Knights of Columbus Latin Mass page. Brother Dennis stated that he will review it and see if we need to use a disclaimer.
      • USA National VP-Mountain Time Zone, Judd Hopkins, feels that the current mission statement States everything that needs to be said.
      • At this time we will table the discussion of the disclaimer until further research is accomplished and we will revisit it at a later date. Also we will place the Rally under old business and revisit it at the next meeting.
  • Closing Prayer
    • Closing Prayer offered by International Chaplain, Father Sinclair.
  • Meeting Adjourned
    • The meeting was adjourned by International President, Bob Bagley, at 20:10 EST.

*Reminder* Re: New Member Applications

Posted by James Kubinski on

Worthy KonB Leaders and Members Worldwide,

This is just a reminder that all KonB applications are to be submitted for processing only by a Diocesan President, State Vice President, State President, National VP, National President, or International Officer.  New members should not be submitting their own applications to KonB International for processing.  This procedure is in place to ensure that new members are properly vetted/approved by the appropriate local KonB leadership.

If you are a KonB officer and would like to verify/update the names/email addresses of those aformentioned positions within your jurisdiction, please do not hesitate to reach out via email at knightsonbikesinternational@gmail.com.

Thank you and God Bless!

Sincerely,
KonB Administrator

EB Meeting Minutes from September 24, 2023

Posted by James Kubinski on
  • Meeting Called to Order
    • Executive Board Meeting called to order by International President (IP) Bob “Ace” Bagley at 19:00 EDT
  • Opening Prayer
    • Offered by USA National President (NP-USA) Angelo Chiodo
    • Keep Brothers International Advocate Dennis Mailloux (IA) and Past International Vice President Jesus (Past IVP) in our prayers.
  • Roll Call of Officers
    • All Officers are present or accounted for.
  • Reading of the Minutes
    • Minutes of 30 July 23 read and accepted with no changes.
  • Unfinished Business
    • List of suspended members
      • National Presidents/Vice Presidents still workong through lists of their respective jurisdictions
  • New Business
    • IP Bob read a letter from Brother Jesus (Past IVP) in to include on the Record. The letter asked that the Executive Board give Brother James K. be full admin rights to KonB website. Brother Jesus stated he will continue to maintain the website.
    • Brother Jesus’s motion was seconded and passed with no objections.
    • NP-USA Angelo stated we were reaching the limits on emails, should we go through the site and purge those that are no longer of any use or should we pay the fee to expand. Approx $10.00.  He also stated that if someone states they are no longer a KonB member they should be removed from the email list.
    • Past USA Vice President (Past NVP-USA) Lawrence had nothing new to share, but did provide an update on Brother Jesus’s overall health.
    • Canadian National President (NP-Canada) Johnny V. asked if there were any issues with the splinter group at the Supreme Convention.  Florida State President (SP-FL) George stated that there were none.
    • USA Mountain Timezone Vice President (NVP/Mountain-USA)Judd reported he was reaching out to KonB New Mexico to help fix the issues in that state.
    • The 2025 International Rally is still a work in progress with dates and locations TBD.
  • Officers Reports
      • Brother George (SP-FL) reported that the Supreme convention which was held in Florida was a success and everything was great. In talking with the Supreme Secretary the Knights of Columbus is very pleased with the work being conducted by Knights on Bikes. He also noted that Knights of Columbus/Knights on Bikes members from the Philippines wanted vests like the ones worn in the United States.
      • Brother Johnny V (NP-Canada) stated that the Christmas in July held in Canada was very successful and they plan on holding the same event in 2024. He also stated that Canada held a rosary Sunday on 10th September and it was a better turn out than previous years and the plan is to continue with this event in 2024
      • Brother Brian R. (NVP/Central-USA) had nothing to report.
      • Brother Paul P. (NVP/Pacific-USA) had nothing to report at this time. He also stated there was no blowback from the event held at Dodger Stadium. And that members attended the Second Annual Day of Remembrance and everything was very Solemn at this event.
      • Brother Angelo (NP-USA) stated that everything is running smoothly and in the right directions.  He also stated that Brother James K. (KonB Administrator) is doing a great job as admin.
      • Brother George (SP-FL) stated he will start following up with people he received business cards and inquiries from at the Supreme Convention.
      • International Chaplain (IC) Father Sinclair reported that his diocese had held and Eucharistic Flotilla down the river with prayers at each stop it was very well attended.  He also stated that they will be attending the Nun Run on 7 Oct23. He also stated that individual states should consider holding a Eucharistic Procession.
  • Next Executive Board Meeting
    • TBA
  • Closing Prayer
    • Offered by IP Bob Bagley
  • Meeting Adjourned
    • By IP Bob “Ace” Bagley at 19:45 EDT

EB Meeting Minutes from July 30, 2023

Posted by James Kubinski on
  • Meeting Called to Order
    • Executive Board Meeting called to order by IP Bob “Ace” Bagley at 19:00 EST
  • Opening Prayer
    • Offered by Father Sinclair
  • Roll Call of Officers
    • All Officers are present or accounted for.
  • Reading of the Minutes
    • Executive Board Meeting held in May were approved with no corrections and no objections.
    • The minutes from the meeting held in La Crosse, WI were read and approved with no objections or changes.
  • Unfinished Business
    • NP Angelo C stated we have members were suspended at the Jan 2023 who wished to return to KonB. The Board then reviewed all of the currently suspended one at a time:
      • H. Holloway-Ark- Remains Suspended
      • M. Huber-Ark-Remains Suspended
      • E. Bonilla-CA-TBD by PTZVP Paul P.
      • H. Cost-CA-TBD by PTZVP Paul P.
      • R. Kumar-CA- Remains Suspended
      • M. Sanchez-CA-TBD by PTZVP Paul P
      • J. Airagah-Fla-TBD by ETZVP George M
      • A. Milot-Fla- Remains Suspended
      • T. Gant-Ga- TBD by ETZVP George M
      • P. Morton-Ga-Remains Suspended
      • A. Truax-Wash-Remains Suspended
      • B. Anderson-Idaho-Remains Suspended
        • Find out what is actually taking place in Idaho. Brother Mike possible New State President for Idaho.
      • G. Biedron-IL-TBD by CTZVP Brian R.
      • M. Kuzera-IL-Remains Suspended
      • S. Zalas Jr.-IL-TBD by CTZVP Brian R
        • There are also six members listed as inactive that CTZVP Brian wants to check on before making a decision on them.
      • P. Charvey-TBD by CTZVP Brian R
      • R. Clarke-Kansas-TBD by CTZVP Brian R
      • J. Hale-Kansas-TBD by CTZVP  Brian  R
      • S. Guyling-LA-TBD by CTZVP Brian R
      • D. Richardson-LA-Remains Suspended
      • R. Dupris-LA-Supports International and Founders. TBD by CTZVP Brian R
      • F. Hall-Missouri-TBD by CTZVP Brian R
      • A. Vigil-ND-TBD by CTZVP Brian R
      • Robert Diaz-NM-Removed from KofC
      • R. Locke-NM-TBD by MTZVP Judd H.
      • E. Kirby-NM-Stays Suspended
      • J. Spade-OK-Stays Suspended
      • K. Fridenberg- Oregon-TBD by PTZVP Paul
      • M. Ecure-TN-TBD by CTZVP Brian R
      • S. Lopez-TX-Stays Suspended
      • J. Montalvo-TX-TBD by CTZVP Brian R.
      • C. Dominski-TX-TBD by CTZVP Brian R
      • J. McCannon-WA-TBD by WTZVP Paul P
      • D. O’Keefe-WA-Stays Suspended
      • T. Saha-WA-TBD by PTZVP Paul P
      • C. Oldmixon-TX-Stays Suspended
      • L. Smith-WA-TBD by PTZVP Paul P
      • G. Sparks-WA-TBD by PTZVP Paul P
      • A. Corand-Stays Suspended
      • R. Guel-WA-TBD by PTZVP Paul P
      • L. Bast-WA-TBD by PTZVP Paul P
      • B. Fleming-Stays Suspended
      • M. Mateo-WA-TBD by PTZVP Paul P
      • M. Perkins-WA-TBD by PTZVP Paul P
      • D. Toth- Stays Suspended
      • S. Steele-TX-Stays Suspended
    • Father Sinclair asked about the original suspensions and IP Bob B. explained what had taken place and why the suspensions were made.
  • New Business
    • None
  • Officers Reports
    • Father Sinclair stated that the Milwaukee Diocese did nothing during the Harley-Davidson birthday celebration. He stated it would have been a good time for both the diocese and Knights on Bikes to have a booth for people to find out about Knights on Bikes and the Milwaukee Diocese. He also stated that it might be a good idea if Knights on Bikes had a presence at some of the rallies that take place around the country.
    • Father Sinclair also reminded everyone about the Eucharistic conference that will be taking place he feels that it would be a good location for members of the Knights of Columbus and Knights on Bikes to get together and socialize.
    • National President Brother Angelo stated that the Presidents of Diocese are very important for everything that we do as Knights on Bikes.
    • International President Brother Bob Bagley told everyone that Long Ride Home will be aired on the 1st of September at 11:30 p.m. Eastern Standard time.
    • Brother Bob also stated everything seems to have calmed down within Knights on Bikes it was also mentioned that Knights on Bikes should see about setting up a booth at the next Supreme Convention.
    • Brother Bob also mentioned that the Rock Ride in Canada was a major success and that there is a possibility that the Knights of Columbus and Knights on Bikes may take it over.
    • Brother bob also stated that the bylaw review will take place during the September meeting.
  • Next Executive Board Meeting
    • Sunday Sept 24 2023 at 1900 EST.
  • Closing Prayer
    • Offered by Father Sinclair
  • Meeting Adjourned
    • By IP Bob “Ace” Bagley at 20:15 EST

REMINDER: Annual Member Verification and Leadership Update

Posted by James Kubinski on

This is a reminder about the Annual Member Verification and Leadership Update.  Please see below for the initial message.

Please see the email that was sent from knightsonbikesinternational@gmail.com.  Emails were sent to the State President on record.  If you did not receive such an email, please reach out to knightsonbikesinternational@gmail.com.

Thank you!

—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

First off, a hearty thank you and congratulations to all Knights on Bikes officers that are leaving their positions.  Your service and dedication is much appreciated.

As the new fraternal year begins, it is imperative that we ensure accurate membership records so as to make certain that all KonB members, regardless of national or locale, are ‘in the know’ about KonB.  About a month ago, State Presidents on record received an email asking for the following information:

  1. Any changes or additions for members in your region (i.e. address, phone, email, etc.)
  2. An updated list of those fulfilling leadership positions (i.e. State President, State Vice President, Diocesan Presidents, etc.)

The initial deadline set forth for this information was July 15.  The deadline will be extended to August 1.  Please respond with the requested information, and any questions, to knightsonbikesinternational@gmail.com.