They don't always wear the capes and plumed hats, but for 100 years the Knights of Columbus members in Butler have made it their mission to support charity and promote unity and patriotism.

Fourth degree members will don their tuxedos, capes, hats and ceremonial swords, however, as the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh marks the many achievements of Butler Council 866.

They usually wear their full regalia at events such as funerals, Rosary rallies, parades and visits from the bishop.

Bishop Donald Wuerl will celebrate Mass at noon Sunday at St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, 128 N. McKean St., in honor of the group's 100th anniversary.

The Butler Knights of Columbus will also mark the occasion with an open house at its building at 234 E. North St. following the Mass. The group may also host a dinner in the next few months.

The international group was founded in 1882, while the Butler group's charter was signed Dec. 18, 1904.

"It was founded to help men become stronger in their faith and to help men provide for their families through the insurance program," said Mitch Natali, financial secretary of the group.

"We focus on charity as one of the main things," Natali said.

The Bishop's Project is the first charity mentioned by members like Natali and Ed Pawlowicz, a member since 1974 who serves as district deputy.

The Bishop's Project benefits mentally challenged individuals, Natali said."I get satisfaction out of it," Pawlowicz said. "When we have our Tootsie Roll drives (to raise money) in the summer, I always tell everyone the money goes to the kids and the smile and 'good morning' are mine. That's what I get out of it."Money is raised in various ways, including penny drives and sales of Christmas items."Our council has been among one of the biggest givers in the Pittsburgh diocese every year," Natali said.And they're devout in their support of students in the seminary, as well as efforts in cooperation with the Shriners to benefit Camp Cadette, the Red Cross and Lifesteps.Weekly fish dinners have become a staple at the hall on East North Street, and bingo may return at some point. The hall, with duckpin bowling in the basement, can be rented out as well.With a nearly 500-strong membership of priests and lay people, the average age of members is still on the high side.

"Lately, we have been getting some younger members in so that brings our average age down," Natali said. "But we have a lot of honorary life members, over 100 I think."Like so many other community groups, active membership has dwindled. About 10 members usually attend any given meeting."You have that certain membership … there are only so many who are really involved," said Randy Fillhart, who performs presidential duties as grand knight of the group. "Those are the guys who really know what's going on."Fellowship is also a main component of the group."It's a lot of the fraternity, too. The guys can get together here and socialize," Pawlowicz said. "We work the fish dinners on Fridays. I really enjoy it."