Chris is a steadfast supporter of the Family of Man Council and a dependable leader whenever service is needed. This month, we especially recognize his leadership of the Christmas Parking Crew, whose efforts played a vital role in ensuring a safe and welcoming environment throughout the busy Christmas season.

Under Chris’ guidance, the team worked efficiently and cheerfully, helping parishioners arrive and depart safely during Christmas liturgies and events. The council and parish received numerous notes of gratitude praising the professionalism, kindness, and effectiveness of the crew.

Through his leadership and commitment to service, Chris helped make the celebration of Christmas safer, smoother, and more enjoyable for everyone in our parish. We thank him for his example of servant leadership and congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.

The Family of Man Council is pleased to recognize the following Knights and families for November and December 2025:

November Knight of the Month: Mike Dimaiuta

Mike generously stepped in to support the Culture of Life ministry during the hospitalization of its long-time leader, Leo Marier. Without being asked—and during the busiest month of the program—Mike ensured the ministry continued its important work. He also volunteered his time at the parish’s Fall Festival. We thank Mike for his initiative and his faithful service.

November Family of the Month: Leo and Dottie Marier

Leo and Dottie have been devoted leaders of the Culture of Life ministry for many years. Whether distributing pro-life materials, organizing marches, or coordinating fundraisers large and small, they have always served with dedication and joy. Leo passed away shortly after the family received this honor, and we continue to hold the Marier family in prayer. We honor them for their years of unwavering service to our Council and to the Culture of Life mission.

December Knight of the Month: Pat Reilly

At 93 years old, Pat is a Korean War combat veteran, a parishioner of many years, and has been married for 71 years. A father of seven, he attends the 9:30 a.m. Sunday Mass regularly and is a daily Communicant—driving himself each day. Pat is well known for handing out children’s Mass books to young parishioners who may be having a hard time sitting still, much to the gratitude of parents and those nearby. His joyful dedication to God, family, parish, and country reflects the very heart of the Knights of Columbus.

December Family of the Month: Tom and Janet Broderick

Tom faithfully serves as our Worthy Recorder and is active in many parish ministries, including the Juneteenth Planning Committee, Hypothermia Planning, weekly Money Counting, and service as a substitute usher at the 9:30 a.m. Mass. Janet is likewise deeply involved, serving in Care for Our Common Home, the Dishwashing Ministry, Shelter Meals, as a Eucharistic Minister, and in the weekly Centering Prayer group. Together, they participate in Just Faith and the Virginia chapter of Catholic Relief Services. Their commitment to faith and service is a blessing to our parish and Council.

Knight of the Month for September 2025 – Tom Costello

Tom Costello, a dedicated long-time member of our Council, has been honored as the Knight of the Month for September 2025. Tom’s contributions extend beyond the Council, as he is an active member of the SJN Parish choir, singing at Sunday Masses and special occasions. Notably, he performed with the choir and delivered a solo at the funeral Mass for our deceased Brother, Michael Lesko. Additionally, Tom was invited to sing at a Diocesan Mass and Prayer Service for Healing. For his unwavering service to the Council, SJN Parish, and the Diocese, we proudly recognize Tom Costello as the Knight of the Month.

Family of the Month for September 2025 – The Lesko Family

The Lesko Family has been named the Family of the Month for September 2025 in honor of Brother Michael Lesko, a devoted and active Council member whose participation was limited by a debilitating stroke over a decade ago. Brother Lesko’s commitment to the Knights remained strong, and he expressed his wish for the Council to participate in his funeral Mass. His wife, Dorothy, and daughter, Stephanie, fulfilled this wish by coordinating with our Worthy Grand Knight to have Knights, including GK John Yesford and PGK Bob Balog, serve in the presentation of the gifts at the Mass. For Brother Lesko’s enduring legacy and his Family’s dedication to honoring his wishes, we celebrate the Lesko Family as the Family of the Month.

Knight of the Month for October 2025 – Fr. Don Heet, OSFS

Fr. Don Heet, OSFS, our beloved Chaplain, has been selected as the Knight of the Month for October 2025. A familiar presence at Family of Man functions, Fr. Heet consistently offers warm greetings, insightful comments, and words of encouragement. As Pope Leo recently emphasized, Fr. Heet is a faithful companion in both word and deed, inspiring us with hope and guiding us to live with love and compassion. His example shows us how to be better Catholic men. 

Mike has consistently gone above and beyond, working alongside the Treasurer to maintain accurate financial records and ensuring that all necessary paperwork is filed with the State and Supreme Councils. His dedication is evident not only in his meticulous bookkeeping but also in his active participation in our charity fundraising efforts. Mike often collects money at events and has been instrumental in managing the electronic payment systems, significantly boosting our fundraising capabilities.

As Mike prepares to step down at the end of this Council year, he is diligently training his replacement to ensure a smooth transition. His commitment to the Knights will continue, as he has graciously offered to assist whenever needed. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mike Swiger for his unwavering dedication, integrity, and exceptional service to the Council. Congratulations, Mike, on being named Knight of the Month – well-deserved recognition!

Frank has been the driving force behind the Knights’ installation dinners for many years. His behind-the-scenes efforts may go unnoticed, but they are essential to the success of these events.

In addition to his kitchen duties, Frank serves as one of the head counters for church collections every Monday, a role he performs with great care and precision. He also oversees the decorating teams for major liturgical seasons, coordinating the stunning displays that enliven the church during Christmas and Easter.

Frank and Patty play essential roles in hosting funeral receptions and coordinating volunteers to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for grieving families. Patty serves on the Linen Committee, which is responsible for maintaining the altar linens used during the Mass, ensuring they are cleaned and pressed. Furthermore, Patty dedicates her time and skills to receptions following the All Souls Memorial Mass and the 40-Hour Wrap-Up Mass, making certain that these gatherings run smoothly.

Together, Frank and Patty embody the true meaning of selfless service. They perform countless tasks that may go unnoticed but are vital to parish life. We are grateful for their dedication and the example they set for our faith community.

As the Council’s Pro-Life Activities Coordinator, Leo is responsible for council pro-life activities such as the Novena for Life, support for Pro-Life charities, and coordinating with the Saint John Neumann Pro-Life Ministry. Leo and Dottie are long-time members of the SJN Pro-Life Ministry and have participated in events such as the March for Life, baby bottle fundraisers, and the Mother’s Day flower distribution, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the sanctity of life.

In addition to his pro-life work, Leo enriches the parish community with his musical contributions to the choir. Dottie lovingly serves in the funeral ministry, which prepares the receptions that bring comfort to grieving families. She is also one of the group of women who craft the beautiful baptismal gowns presented to infants as part of the baptismal ceremony.

The Mariers exemplify faith in action and inspire all through their dedication and service.

Although new to the Council, Ryan has quickly made a significant impact. As the Recruiting Chairman, he has energized membership efforts and spearheaded the Council’s involvement in a fundraiser for Alzheimer’s disease. Ryan also played a vital role in the Keep Christ in Christmas campaign, tirelessly managing the Christmas card sales table at multiple Masses—often on his own.

Ryan’s dedication and enthusiasm exemplify the spirit of service, making him deserving of this recognition. Congratulations, Ryan!

Known for his positive attitude and commitment to service, Roberto exemplifies the Christian virtue of serving others with humility and love. His efforts are a blessing to our community. Roberto also extends heartfelt gratitude to his wife, Maria, and his children, Jacquelyn and Christian, for their unwavering support. Thank you, Roberto, for your service and example of faith in action!