When Rocco Santucci helped establish a Knights of Columbus council 17 years ago, it was an answer to prayers. He’d been looking for an opportunity to get involved in a Catholic men’s group that offered practical aid to the poor as well as spiritual support to its members.
Today, Rocco is confident that every minute dedicated to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Council #11356 has taught him and his brother Knights to live more like Christ. He lives under a consistent reminder of Jesus’ words: “Just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me” (Matthew 25:40). Participating in Cross Catholic Outreach’s Box of Joy® ministry has brought even more fulfillment to Rocco’s service experience.
Through the Box of Joy ministry, Rocco and his fellow Knights volunteer alongside family members and parishioners to pack Christmas gifts for impoverished children in developing countries. These gift boxes are filled with toys, clothing, school supplies, a rosary and a copy of The Story of Jesus. More than 700,000 Box of Joy gifts have been delivered around the world, often to children who had never received their very own Christmas gift.
“This partnership has given us and our community an avenue to share Christmas joy with children,” Rocco said. By taking this opportunity to serve the poor, they’re able to bless parts of the world that would typically be unreachable to them.
The heart behind Box of Joy’s mission pairs beautifully with the Knights’ passion for service. Rocco was deeply moved by the children’s delight at receiving the gifts and found it incredibly fulfilling. And he isn’t stopping there.
Rocco and his fellow Knights have invited other parish communities in the Pittsburgh area to join them in packing Box of Joy gifts, and they plan to continue doing so every year. By participating in this ministry, Rocco believes volunteers open their hearts to incredible blessings in their own lives. Hosting such events positively influences the people who participate and blesses the children who get to open a present prepared with the love of Christ!
Box of Joy is a ministry of Cross Catholic Outreach.
Originally published May 2026.
