Being a “man for others” is a principle that was instilled in Robert Gonzalez by his Jesuit high school — and the Knights’ four pillars of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism have helped him live out that principle.
Robert first learned about the Knights of Columbus while he was in high school. But it wasn’t until he retired that he could devote sufficient time to the council. He is a member of the Saint Mary Council 4444 in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, and was elected Grand Knight on July 1, 2026.
“Being a Knight has impacted my spiritual life quite a bit,” Robert said. He and his wife attended a Cross Catholic Outreach food-packing event and were impressed by the people they met from all walks of life. The volunteers shared their experiences and struggles and how similar events helped give their lives renewed purpose. He said, “My wife and I really enjoyed it and felt blessed by the unity and fraternity aspect throughout the whole event.”
Fraternity is an important pillar of the Knights of Columbus for Robert. It’s how he sees the Knights’ partnership with Cross Catholic Outreach. “Each organization is able to bring different resources to the table and strengthen each other in carrying out the mission to serve the poor,” he explained. “There is strength in numbers.”
Robert and his wife encourage the council members, their fellow parishioners and their friends to participate in food packing events when the opportunity arises. “I believe this is a very beneficial and great partnership,” Robert said about the Knights and Cross Catholic Outreach. “We can do more for Christ by uniting our forces and bringing our strengths together. I believe everyone benefits from it.”
