DERBY, KS — The St Mary Knights of Columbus Council #4458 is proud to announce the completion and installation of a Culture of Life billboard at the east entrance of the Columbian Acres grounds, located on the north side of Meadowlark Avenue, just west of the church grounds. The billboard, which carries two message panels oriented west and east, stands as a testament to the council’s commitment to upholding and promoting a Culture of Life. Father Micheal Linnebur, pastor of St. Mary Parish attended the dedication ceremony, which took place on Sunday, July 9 and blessed the sign.
“This billboard is a testament to those who pass by of the sanctity of life, a sacred gift from God that we are called to respect and protect from conception to natural death. Its message challenges us to remember the inherent dignity of every human person,” said John Stuhlsatz, Grand Knight of the Council.
The successful completion of the project, organized and led by Culture of Life/Youth Program Director for the Knights John Washburn, and was made possible thanks to the dedication, efforts and financial contribution of the Knights of Columbus and parishioners of St. Mary Catholic Church.
The council would also like to thank the generosity of the Kansans for Life organization for granting permission to utilize their impactful designs and graphics.
About Knights of Columbus Council #4458
Gaining their council charter in 1957, the St Mary Knights of Columbus Council #4458 has grown into a vibrant and active community of over 350 members. It’s rich history of community involvement, dedication to the organization’s precepts of fostering fraternity, unity, charity and patriotism has made a lasting impact on St. Mary Parish and the Derby community for over 60 years. The St. Mary Knights of Columbus Council invites community members to view and reflect on the messages of the Culture of Life billboard, a symbol of our shared values and dedication to the promotion of life.
About St Mary Catholic Church
St. Mary Parish is a vibrant Catholic community nestled in Derby and Rose Hill, Kansas. Serving over 1,103 families, which translates to about 3,100 individuals, we pride ourselves on our welcoming and friendly spirit. Guided by our mission - “St. Mary Catholic parish is a loving Eucharistic family called to follow Christ and form disciples” - we open our doors to those new to the Catholic faith, those returning, and those exploring their faith. At St. Mary, we believe in fostering a space where everyone can experience the joy and peace of a loving Eucharistic family, following Christ’s teachings and forming disciples in His name.