The Knights of Columbus are deeply committed to providing moral, financial, and spiritual support to future priests and religious at every stage of their formation. The future of our Church depends on individuals answering God’s call to a religious vocation, making the promotion of vocations to the priesthood and religious life one of our highest priorities.

The RSVP (Refund Support Vocations Program) is the primary initiative through which Knights of Columbus councils and assemblies participate in an organized and meaningful way to support these vocations.

Councils are required to provide at least $500 in financial assistance for a minimum of one seminarian. In addition, they must offer ongoing moral support and prayers for their “adopted” seminarian or religious aspirant. This personal and spiritual connection is a central aspect of RSVP and is essential to fulfilling the program’s mission.

RSVP scholarship funds help seminarians and those in religious formation cover important expenses such as books, car insurance and maintenance, travel during breaks, clerical clothing, emergency needs, and other living costs.

Eligible recipients of RSVP funds include any man attending a Catholic seminary preparing for ordination as a priest in the diocese or a religious order.

The Vermont State Council has proudly participated in the Knights of Columbus Vocations Program for 35 years. Each year, the State Council awards three scholarships of $600 each, contributing to a total of $63,000 in support over the years.

Additionally, councils throughout the state that have participated in the RSVP program for the past 42 years have collectively provided over half a million dollars in scholarship support to seminarians.

This year the Vermont Knights of Columbus provided support to Seminarian Anthony Maurice who was recognized prior to the Chrism Mass at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Burlington on March 31, 2026.