Let’s talk about something people whisper about but rarely say out loud: What’s really going on with the so-called Catholic “Knights” in our churches today?
I mean, let’s be honest. When you hear “Knight of Saint Mulumba” what comes to mind? Is it a prayerful servant of God… or a rich man in agbada with a big ring, bigger stomach, and even bigger secrets?
Let’s talk about a group in the Catholic Church that everyone knows—but few truly understand: The Knights. You’ve seen them in big robes, sitting in front during Mass, sometimes moving like VIPs. But who are they really?
A knight is traditionally a military warrior who has been granted an honorary title for service, bravery, or loyalty—often tied to religious and moral codes like chivalry.
In the Catholic Church context, a knight is typically a lay member of a religious order or brotherhood who pledges to live out Christian values through charity, service, and defense of the faith.
Historically, the idea of knights started in Europe during the Crusades (around 11th–13th century). These were not just rich men in robes—they were real warriors who protected Christians traveling to the Holy Land, fought in battles to defend the Church, and even helped the poor and sick. Think of Knights Templar, Knights of Malta, and Knights Hospitaller.
These men took vows—yes, like priests!—of poverty, chastity, and obedience. They were known for discipline, prayer, and courage but they are not priests.
Today’s Knights: What Happened?
In modern times, we still have knight groups like:
• Knights of Columbus (worldwide)
• Knights of Saint Mulumba (common in Nigeria)
These are laymen (not priests) who vow to defend the Church, support charitable works, and live good Catholic lives.
But let’s be honest—many people don’t trust them anymore. Why?
From Knights to Night Men – What Nigerian Movies like "The Mighty Men, Occult Knights, and The Order" depict supposed Catholic knights as wealthy men masking occultic activities behind a cross and title. While dramatized, these stories reflect real societal fears: that some “knights” use their positions for influence, not faith.
In many Nigerian movies, knights are portrayed as rich men hiding behind the cross, using their title to cover up occult practices. Some may say, “Father, is this not true?” And I say: in some cases, yes. Some have used their titles for manipulation, politics, and control, not for Christ.
But there are still many genuine Catholic knights:
• Men who sponsor poor children through school.
• Knights who help build churches in villages.
• Knights who pray the Rosary daily and lead their families in faith.
• Knights who give generously—not to show off, but to serve God.
So, Are Knights Still Important?
Yes—but only when they are true to Christ.
The Church needs men of courage, faith, and love—not just title holders who disappear when there’s work, but show up when there’s praise.
We need knights who:
• Defend the weak
• Speak truth in corrupt systems
• Serve the poor without expecting applause
• Live holy, humble lives
If you're already a knight, ask yourself:
• Am I representing Jesus or just chasing status?
• Do people see light in me—or darkness?
And if you're not a knight, remember: Every Christian is called to be a spiritual knight—a warrior for truth, justice, and love.
Don’t just wear the robe. Wear the armor of God.
Rev Fr Prince Chidi Philip
