North East District Deputy Caucus
Report from the North East Caucus on March 10th, 2024
On March 10th, 2024, Brother Knights DGK Joseph Saski, Chnclr Lawrence Saski, and Antonio Perito attended the North East Board of District Deputies 2024 Northeast Caucus. Over 100 attendees, including 70 voting delegates, were present. Representing our council as voting delegates were J. Saski and A. Perito.
Financial Report and Pledges
The treasurer’s report for the North East Board of District Deputies noted an $8807 balance in the checking account. Funds go towards supporting NEBDD events, Cross Catholic Outreach, and men’s conferences in the Diocese of Scranton and Diocese of Allentown. NEBDD committed to a $15,000.00 donation to Cross Catholic Outreach, though this may not be fulfilled. Additionally, an approximate $1800 deposit from a raffle fundraiser is expected.
Appointment of New State Secretary
Dennis Sullivan, a past Grand Knight of Our Lady of The Sacred Heart Council 4282 in Nazareth and currently serving as the Diocese of Allentown Membership director, was unanimously voted in as the new PA state secretary. He will also represent our region as one of the two voting delegates to the supreme convention in Montreal. Notably, there were no competing candidates for this position.
Election of Regional Delegates
Jordan Cook, a member of Damien Council 598 in Lehighton and currently serving as District Deputy of District 71, was elected as the region’s second voting delegate. Competing against Brother Cook was Allan Raffay of St. John Neumann Council 12571 and Our Lady of Guadulupe Assembly 2605, who will serve as an alternate delegate for the region at the Supreme convention.
Upcoming Events and Initiatives
The 2025 North East Caucus is scheduled to be held in Wilkes Barre, with no competing location announced.
John Meenan advocated on behalf of Calvert Province Master Brian Hallock regarding the 4th degree, urging participation for those not yet involved and increased engagement for current Sir Knights.
The North East Region Family Director reported on the successful reception of eighty Keep Christ in Christmas Posters from the state, with four nominated for prizes at the supreme level.
Additionally, the North East Region Community Director reported on notable achievements including participation in the International Soccer Challenge and ranking first in the nation for Coats for Kids initiative.
Farewell Addresses
Both the Past State Deputy and the Past State Treasurer delivered farewell addresses, emphasizing the importance of fortifying the church and community at large, and encouraging attendance at Fraternal Benefits events respectively.
Resolutions and Future Events
Six resolutions were voted on, set to be forwarded to the state convention for final approval. These include proposals such as the state council covering the Honorarium for Mass at the state convention and declarations of support for various causes including the Holy Father, Defense of Religious Liberty, and Faithful Citizenship. Additionally, there was a proposal for a one-time $1.50 increase in per capita contributions to the state, along with a change in the annual increase from +3% to +5%.
Lastly, an upcoming Shroud of Turin Exhibition at Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Pocono Pines was announced, with further details to follow.