Knights´ Media Campaign Aims to Support Priests

The initiative, launched by the Knights of Columbus, is to remind the public that beyond the scandals caused by a few priests, there are thousands of priests "who serve the Catholic Church with generosity, dignity and honor."

The campaign begins Sunday with full-page newspaper ads in New York and Boston, followed with ads in national magazines.

The ad message reads: "Every vocation will face challenges. Now is such a moment for the priesthood. At a time when betrayal by a few has inflicted deep suffering with little solace, our compassion goes to victims and their families. And we stand with the vast majority of priests who serve with generosity, dignity, and honor. To those who have remained faithful, we say -- You still have our faith."

"It is important, especially during times like these, to recognize that there are many good people who are called to serve something greater than themselves," said Knights of Columbus Supreme Knight Carl Anderson.

The Knights also promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life through scholarships, donations and other forms of assistance.