Knights of Columbus
Knights Present Donation to Ewing-Northern School Special Ed Department

Benton Knights of Columbus Council 9890 presented a check for $1,903 to the Special Education Department of Ewing-Northern School on January 13. This gift was made possible through the Knight's annual Intellectual Disabilities fund drive, also known as the Tootsie Roll Drive, which is held on the Benton Square in September of each year. The Knights thank all area residents who supported ID Drive last year and look forward to their generosity in September. Pictured (L to R) Amy Hamson, assistant principal, Letha Wilson, special education teacher, and KC members Marcus Ferando, Louie Ferando, Harold Campbell.

| Pre-K and Kindergarten | 1st - 2nd Grade | 3rd - 4th Grade | 5th - 6th Grade | 7th - 8th Grade |
| 1st: Lily Jamerson | 1st: Karter Jamerson | 1st: Addison Chady | 1st: Amelia Coble | 1st: Caroline Simpson |
| 1st: Lucy V. | 2nd: Penelope Smith | 2nd: Kate Evans | 2nd: Korie Blades | 2nd: Drewbee Nguyen |
| 3rd: Jude Chady | 3rd: Parker Crisp | 3rd: Timber Sanders | 3rd: Briley Levanti |
Willie Wolf was honored at the 2025 Knights of Columbus Southern Friendship Dinner on October 11 in Marion.
The Belleville Diocese Chapter of the Knights recognized Willie for a lifetime of dedicated service to his church, to the community, and to the Knights of Columbus order. During the ceremony, he was introduced by brother Knight David Stock. Willie is the fourth honoree from St. Joseph Parish as he joins Msgr. Charles Nebel (2002), Fr. Joseph Trapp (2014), and Harold Campbell (2023).

Congratulations Fr. Levi James, ordained June 7, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Belleville
A special thanks to all parishioners who have supported the Benton Knights of Columbus Vocations Raffle. These funds enabled the Knights to provide financial assistance to Fr. Levi to complete his seminary education.
Get Involved -- Join Today!
Catholic men ages 18 and older are invited to join the Knights of Columbus. This fraternal organization supports the parish and local community.
There are two K of C councils in our parish family and their contact information is below. To learn more about the Knights and to join >>> click here
Benton Council 9890
-- Meets the second Monday of the month in the St. Joseph Parish Center
-- Contact Grand Knight Pat Sanders or District Deputy Harold Campbell for information
Christopher Council 3943
-- Meets the third Wednesday of the month in the Columbian Club, Christopher
-- Contact Grand Knight Mike Salmo or District Deputy Harold Campbell for information
Free Online Membership Available
Promoting the Sanctity of Life
Aid for Women, Carbondale
Aid for Women understands that every woman’s situation is different. We provide a confidential and comfortable place for you to meet with our medical staff and advocates to discuss your situation. You will receive the services and information you need to make a fully-informed decision and move forward with your pregnancy plan. All services are offered FREE OF CHARGE.
St. Ann Cradle of Hope, Carbondale
This nonprofit Catholic organization provides material and spiritual assistance to pregnant women and families with young children. The organization saves lives and strengthens families by helping a mother know that she and her baby are loved and valued.
Send a “Dear Pharmacist” letter to oppose the abortion pill sales at CVS and Walgreens
Click here for information and the letter
Local Knights News
Knights Lead the Way in Pro-Life Action
In a world that needs men who serve, protect and defend LIFE, Benton Knights of Columbus members are leading the way in our parish. KC Council 9890 participated in the National Bridges for Life Day on July 25, 2025. Knights were on the Interstate 57 overpass with their pro-life message.

Respect Life -- All Ages, All Stages
Chemical Abortion is a dangerous new frontier for the abortion industry. To learn the true facts, watch these informative videos. Click HERE and scroll to the bottom of the page. THEN TELL THE FDA TO HELP STOP THE DANGEROUS DISTRIBUTION OF CHEMICAL ABORTION PILLS ONLINE! TAKE ACTION NOW GO TO: https://thisischemicalabortion.com/