Brothers:

As we pause to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I ask that you take time to remember all of those who are less fortunate than all of us.  Remember to take time to give thanks to God for all of the blessing he has bestowed upon us, no matter our situation.

As we look forward to 2011, we must offer prayers for the many moral issues that are so prevalent in today's society.  We must remember that people will judge the order and the church through our actions. Angry and even persuasive words will not win the day.  It is our example, our works of charity and our following the example of Christ by turning the other cheek that will win society to our side.

We must not be thought of as those loud, angry, self righteous Catholics, but rather as those people who do all those great charitable works.  Think about the Knights and what do people say when you mention them?  Many remark, you're the guys that help the intellectually disadvantaged through the tootsie rolls.  People DO remember our works.  Pray that we can further that image with our continued good works.

Each of us is fortunate that this experience was offered to us and most of us would say it has changed our lives.  We have the support of over 30,000 brothers in Iowa.  These Brothers help us to strengthen our faith, to be better men and husbands, to assist those less fortunate, and to be better persons in general.  Look around you and ask, why I have not offered this experience to that other man.

Christmas is upon us and we do have so much to be thankful for.  The sacrifice of Jesus and his birth we now celebrate.  The faith that keeps on the right path.  The Clergy who give so selflessly for us, so our faith can remain strong.

DJ and I wish for each of you, Strong Faith, Health, Love and Family. God Bless Each of You and Merry Christmas

DJ and Mike Laake

VIVAT JESUS

PDF copy of message on letterhead