The New York State Knights of Columbus Council aims to support and recognize clergy through its monthly “Clergy Spotlight” initiative. Last fall, the nominated clergy member was from the Diocese of Syracuse: Father Zachary Miller, pastor of Christ the King and Pope John XXIII parishes in Liverpool.
The nomination, which appeared in the November 2025 issue of “New York State Knight Life,” the official newsletter for the New York State Knights of Columbus, was submitted by Rick Beiswenger, 4th Degree Knight of the Liverpool Knights of Columbus, Father Louis Waters Council 7928. Beiswenger described Fr. Miller – who is also a 4th Degree Knight – as one who “embodies priestly devotion and fraternal commitment.
“He is not only our most faithful supporter, but our greatest advocate,” the nomination continued. “His presence at events brings spiritual depth and joyful camaraderie. He doesn’t just endorse our mission as Knights of Columbus – he lives it.”
Highlighting Fr. Miller’s exemplary servant leadership both within his parishes and in the larger community, Beiswenger listed the many ways Father personally ministers “to those in uniform, hospital beds, or discerning vocations.” Father is a National Guard Veteran, chaplain to Central New York Police Chiefs, chaplain to the 174th Fighter Wing at Hancock Field, and the on-call priest chaplain for Upstate Medical’s Spiritual Care team, among other roles. In these many capacities, Beiswenger writes that Fr. Miller “leads with compassion, serves with unwavering dedication, and reaches far beyond his parish to touch every corner of our community.”
