Knights of Columbus

We are thrilled to announce that Raymond (Ray) Gora has been named Knight of the Year for 2024!  Ray's dedication and service to our council and community have been truly exceptional over the years.

 

Ray's journey is inspiring and impactful.  He spent four years as a missionary in Bolivia, where he met and married his wife, Liliana.  In 2007, he joined Union County’s Department of Human Services as a Program Development Specialist, focusing on aiding the homeless and disabled, and retired last year.  Ray also dedicated 15 years to the Board of Trustees of Hudson Hospice,

 

Ray's academic background is impressive. He has a bachelor’s degree in languages and philosophy from Seton Hall University and the equivalent of a Master’s degree in Theology.  He is a proud United States Marine Corps veteran, honored with a Navy Commendation citation and a Notary Public.

 

In his professional career, Ray excelled as a Patient Representative at a Level II Trauma Center, earning numerous Five-star customer service awards and becoming a Fellow of the Society for Healthcare Consumer Advocacy of the American Hospital Association.

 

Ray's service extends to Saint Adalbert’s Church in Elizabeth, where he serves as a lector and religious education teacher.  He is deeply involved in preparing students for Confirmation and the RCIA program.

 

Ray is also a devoted family man with three children: Monica, Daniel, and Eric, a Sergeant in the City of Elizabeth Police Department.  Amongst his passions is photography, which has led to his work being published in six books.

 

A member of the Knights of Columbus Council 4504 since 1976, Ray is a Fourth Degree Knight, Faithfull Navigator, and Past Commander of the Color Corps.  He consistently attends the wakes of fellow Knights, participates in fundraising efforts for citizens with intellectual disabilities, and helps distribute food to Union County residents. 

 

In February 2020, Ray had the honor of reading and renewing his wedding vows during a trip to the Holy Land.

 

Ray's unwavering commitment and dedication to service, country, community, and our council have been exceptional over the years, making him a deserving recipient of this honor.

 

Please join us in celebrating Brother Ray Gora's remarkable achievements and dedication.