✠ Founded 1919 · Glasgow · Scotland ✠
Knights of
Knights of
Saint Columba
Province of Scotland
"Serving God by Serving Others"
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Province of Scotland
"Serving God by Serving Others"
The Knights of Saint Columba is an Order of Catholic laymen, open to all practising Catholic men over the age of 16. Non-political in character, the Order exists to support the mission of the Catholic Church through Catholic Action and charitable and benevolent work.
Our Order was founded in 1919 by Catholic gentlemen in Glasgow — right here in Scotland — and today unites thousands of members across the United Kingdom and beyond. In Scotland, our Councils carry on that proud founding heritage.
Named for Saint Columba, the Irish monk who brought Christianity to Scotland from the isle of Iona in 563 AD, our Order draws inspiration from his spirit of missionary zeal, community, and selfless service.
"The Order strives to achieve its aims through the fundamental virtues of Charity, Unity and Fraternity — and through these, to build a better Scotland and a stronger Church."
— Knights of Saint Columba, ConstitutionOur members are active throughout Scotland, working in their parishes and communities to live out the Gospel call to service.
Assisting parish priests and their congregations with stewarding, fundraising, and practical support to keep our Catholic communities flourishing.
Fundraising for local, national and international charities; supporting food banks, homeless shelters, and those in greatest need in our communities.
Encouraging young Catholics to grow in faith and service through essay and oratory competitions, mentorship, and youth engagement programmes.
Organising pilgrimages to Lourdes, Iona, and other sacred sites, and leading prayer and Mass attendance as the spiritual foundation of all we do.
Building deep bonds among Catholic men — offering friendship, mutual support, and a sense of brotherhood rooted in shared faith and values.
Giving public witness to the Catholic faith, defending the teachings of the Church, and representing our faith with dignity in civic and public life.
The Irish monk Columba lands on the isle of Iona, establishing his famous monastery and becoming the Apostle of Scotland — patron of our Order.
The Knights of Saint Columba is established in Glasgow by devout Catholic laymen seeking to serve the Church and support Catholic communities across Scotland.
Councils established throughout Scottish cities and towns, providing practical support to Catholic immigrant communities and those in poverty.
The Order expands across England, Wales, and beyond, while Scottish Councils continue to anchor the organisation's founding spirit.
With Councils active across Scotland, members continue to support the Church, serve communities, and welcome new Knights.
The Knights hold a unique place in Scottish Catholic history. Founded in our nation's greatest city during a period of great social need, the Order has for over a century stood alongside Scottish Catholics in times of both hardship and celebration.
Scotland is home to the Order's founding spirit. Our patron, Saint Columba, represents the missionary heart of the Scottish Church — and it is that same heart that beats in every Knight today.
The Catholic Church in Scotland is organised into two ecclesiastical provinces: the Province of St Andrews & Edinburgh and the Province of Glasgow. Together they encompass eight dioceses serving Catholics across the whole of Scotland — from the Western Isles to the Borders, and from Galloway to the Shetland Islands. Scotland's Catholic history stretches back to the sixth century and the arrival of Saint Columba on Iona in 563 AD. The Church was restored to a full hierarchical structure in 1878. Today more than 700,000 Catholics worship across Scotland's parishes, schools and communities, guided by two Archbishops and six Bishops in union with the Holy Father in Rome.
Most Rev. Leo Cushley
Archbishop of St Andrews & Edinburgh
The Knights of Saint Columba have long been a source of quiet strength within our Church in Scotland. For over a century, their dedication to faith, charity and fraternity has brought honour to Christ and comfort to countless lives. I warmly commend their work to every Catholic and encourage all men of goodwill to join them in service to God and neighbour.
✠ Leo Cushley
Archbishop of St Andrews & Edinburgh
The Knights are organised into local Councils, each attached to a Catholic parish and meeting regularly. Each Council is led by a Grand Knight and conducts its own programme of service, prayer, and fraternity.
The annual Provincial gathering of all Scottish Councils. Mass at 11:00 AM followed by the Provincial Grand Council meeting. All Knights and families are warmly welcome.
A day pilgrimage to the sacred isle of Iona, birthplace of our patron Saint Columba's Scottish mission. Mass at the Abbey, reflection, and guided walk. Booking required.
Knights and their families joining the annual Scottish Catholic pilgrimage to Lourdes. KSC members serve as helpers and hospitaliers. Contact your Council Secretary for details.
Presentation of awards to young people who entered the KSC Scottish Essay and Oratory Competition. Guest speaker, dinner, and celebration of Catholic youth.
We welcome all practising Catholic men who wish to deepen their faith through service, brotherhood, and action. Whether you are 16 or 60, there is a place for you in our Order.
Joining is simple — reach out to your nearest Council, or complete the enquiry form below, and a member will be in touch to welcome you.
For general enquiries about the Knights of Saint Columba in Scotland, please contact our Provincial Secretary.
For membership records, national events, and wider KSC matters, contact the Supreme Secretary at KSC Headquarters.