The sword and scabbard of Bishop Henry Joseph Soenneker, second bishop of Owensboro, Kentucky. COURTESY OF ARCHIVES
The sword of Bishop Soenneker
BY EDWARD WILSON, ARCHIVES
If one was to venture a guess at what kind of sword was being held in an archive in Owensboro, Kentucky, it is likely that they would guess the sword of a Civil War general. If a second guess was offered, it would perhaps be the Freemason sword of a past governor or mayor. Few, I would assume, would guess the sword of a Catholic bishop, but that is exactly what we have.
The sword is the dress saber of the Knights of Columbus, and it belonged to our second bishop, the Most Reverend Henry J. Soenneker. Though it may appear to be a fierce weapon, it is of course only ceremonial; Bishop Soenneker had no plans to charge into battle like one of the Catholic Hussars of old (not to our archives’ knowledge, at least).
The sword is truly elegant and rife with Catholic symbolism. The silver scabbard, at the top and bottom is flanked by a total of four K of C symbols. These symbols are nestled within an array of laurel wreaths on the locket and battle axes with sprouting flora on the chape. The blade is still a brilliant silver and has amassed little wear or rust since its creation decades ago. Gold engraving on one side of the blade reads, “Most Rev. H.J. Soenneker.” Also in gold, the reverse side reads, “Bishop of Owensboro.” The center of the cross-guard bares the symbol of the fourth degree, a dove descending on the earth over a cross. The grip is topped by a pommel bearing the likeness of Christopher Columbus.
The Knights of Columbus is one of the most prolific and respected fraternal organizations in the world and deserves the gratitude of all Catholics. I could go on about how the Knights have been arguably the most effective advocates for religious liberty that have ever existed in the United States, citing their work for the rights of religious education, the legal rights of religious orders and organizations, and the pro-life movement, even in our own diocese, but I will refrain. I ask that you perhaps look into the order.
On that note, I want to end this article with a request. I ask that every man reading this article look into the Knights and consider joining. Perhaps, pray to the K of C founder, Blessed Michael McGivney. Or perhaps speak with your priest about it. Many are surprised to find that their priest is a Knight. Whatever you decide, please pray for the Knights of Columbus and their work. Bishop Henry J. Sonneker and Blessed Michael McGivney, pray for us!
Edward Wilson is the director of the Diocese of Owensboro’s Archives and the Archives of the Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph. Comments and questions may be sent to [email protected].
Originally printed in the October 2024 issue of The Western Kentucky Catholic.
