DC Knights of Columbus Council Denounces Trump Stunt at DC Shrine

A local Knights of Columbus Council in Washington, DC split with the national organization and denounced Trump's visit to the KC's conference center and John Paul II shrine.  Grand Knight Anthony H. Bigesby of St. Augustine Council #15723 said "We were not notified that the President will be over at the JPII shrine. The only time I found out about it is when I saw Archbishop Gregory's statement. I'm in full support of Archbishop Gregory." Archbishop Wilton Gregory issued a strong statement against the visit. 

Dr. Edward Anthony Rankin, another member of the Knights of Columbus in Washington, DC, said he was disappointed with the national organization.  Recalling Trump's record of racism against black men, he said, "A few years ago President Trump referred to Colin Kaepernick in a derogatory term for peacefully protesting. I can't speak of what right he had to go there, but to use it [the shrine] as a backdrop is not something I condone."

In addition to the diocesan bishop and many other Catholic bishops and leaders, the KC's are now facing internal dissent over this action.