Michael Shoule believes that when Jesus called us to serve “the least of these,” it was more than a casual suggestion — it was a call to change our lives. That’s why he’s been serving others through Father John Jay Murray Knights of Columbus Council 14666 for the past 16 years.
In 2014, Michael participated in a food packing event that ignited his passion for feeding the hungry. Since his Knights of Columbus council focuses on the Corporal Works of Mercy, that food packing event prompted him to contact Cross Catholic Outreach years later to bless more lives around the world.
“A one-time volunteer opportunity like this can be just the nudge a person might need to help them grow in their faith and seek additional ways to serve those in need,” he said.
As part of their commitment to feeding hungry families in their community, his Knights of Columbus council also stands outside local supermarkets to collect food and donations for food banks.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, joining people of all faiths volunteering at pop-up food pantries to feed hungry people in despair will always stay with me,” Michael shared.
Michael is also deeply committed to pro-life causes, including the Respect Life prayer vigils in New York City, Healers of God’s Precious Infants and the March for Life in Washington, D.C. Becoming involved in the Knights of Columbus helped shape his pro-life views, a cause he cares for passionately.
Professionally, Michael is the vice president of his family’s fourth-generation, 160-year-old logistics company, JW Hampton Jr. & Co., Inc., and chair of the Family-Owned Business Committee. Inspired by his children, he founded Read Together Books and is the author of the children’s books “I Love Going to the Bronx Zoo” and the “My Daddy Loves…Football” collection, which includes titles for the University of Alabama, Boston College, Clemson University, University of Florida, University of Michigan, Michigan State University and University of Texas, with more on the way.
We are thankful for Michael’s passion for the “least of these” and honored to partner with the Father John Jay Murray Knights of Columbus Council 14666 in serving poor families worldwide. Vivat Jesus!
