The George F. Johnson Council #10241 of the Knights of Columbus was founded at St. Anthony's in Bethel VT in January 1990. The Council served two parishes with five churches, and had 30 charter members. Today, with over 50 members, the Council serves the parish of Our Lady of the Valley: St. Anthony in Bethel VT, and St. Elizabeth in Rochester VT, 

The Council is named for parishioner George F. Johnson. A schoolteacher from New York, he retired to Vermont. For years, he resided on the third floor of the St. Anthony rectory, serving as handyman, assisting at Mass, and helping those in need. His contributions to the community and the parish over the decades were numerous.
George died of a heart attack while assisting with a delivery of loam for the church lawn.

The first grand Knight was Phillip Mollitor, who later bacame State Deputy.

The Council raised funds for the altar at Holy Cross Cemetery in Randolph VT.

In its brief history, the George F. Johnson Council has won numerous awards, including the Founder's Award, the Father McGivney Award, and Columbian Award, as well as Vermont Knights of Columbus awards, including the Vocation Sponsor Award.

The Council spearheaded Vermont's version of "Make A Difference Day", a state-wide food drive that began in 1997 as a way to restock the shelves of area food banks and food shelves.

The Knights of Columbus (K of C) are a Catholic mens' fraternal benefit society founded in New Haven CT in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney.  Its ongoing mission is to provide financial aid and assistance to the sick, disabled and needy members of the community and their families. Today, the Knights of Columbus has more than 1.9 million members worldwide. There are many councils and assemblies throughout Vermont.

Interested in becoming a Knight? Men aged 18 or older who are practicing Catholics should contact their local council. Click here to find council or assembly near you.