BASIC INFORMATION ON JOINING THE
FOURTH DEGREE
WHY SHOULD I
JOIN THE FOURTH DEGREE?
Another degree open to members of the
Knights of Columbus is that of the Fourth (or Patriotic) Degree.
On February 22, 1900, the first exemplification of that degree was
held in New York City. The ritual added patriotism to the three
original principles of the Order: charity, unity and fraternity.
Any Third Degree member in good standing, one year after the
anniversary of his First Degree, is eligible for membership in the
Fourth Degree. The primary purpose of the Fourth Degree is to
foster the spirit of patriotism by promoting responsible
citizenship and a love of and loyalty to the Knights' respective
countries through active membership in local Fourth Degree groups
called assemblies. Fourth Degree members must retain their
membership as Third Degree members in the local council to remain
in good standing. The Fourth Degree was first considered in 1886
when the Order was in it's infancy. Several factors contributed to
the development of this additional Degree. The rapid expansion of
the Order across Canada and the U.S. and the enthusiasm created by
the ceremonials and; activities of the first three Degrees
generated a great interest for the establishment of the; fourth
Degree. It was said, however, that a greater impetus to this
development was the then prevalent spirit of anti-Catholicism
which questioned our loyalty and patriotism as well as falsely
charged us with owing our allegiance to the Pope in Rome and being
less loyal and devoted to our country. The establishment of the
Fourth Degree, dedicated to the principle of Patriotism, was a
resounding rebuttal of such charges.
The ceremonials of the Fourth Degree are based on a theme of
Catholic Citizenship and detail the contributions made by the
Catholic Church to North America, from its discovery, exploration
and development to its present greatness. Our members are
challenged to be always ready to sacrifice everything for our
Faith and our Country. The response of our Order to the needs of
our Country in times of war attests to the fact that we are true
to our commitment. From its foundation, the Fourth Degree has
provided Honor Guards for religious and civic ceremonies. Marching
in our regalia, with the flag of our Country before us, we are
clearly identified as individuals who are not afraid to publicly
display our devotion to our Country and our Church.
For a while, many people seem to have shied away from giving
expression to their feelings for their country, as if such
displays of emotion were to be avoided as old fashioned
sentimentality. That is now changing. There is an awakening of
Patriotism across the land. More and more people are flying the
flag and singing their national anthem. This expression of
Patriotism has never been more evident in the member nations where
our order exists.
Patriotism is, of course, more than waving the flag. It goes
beyond expressing love of country and support of its values and
institutions. In its best sense, Patriotism involves commitment
and action. It requires us to live our lives in such a way that it
will strengthen our society, and actively involve ourselves in
whatever action may be necessary to remedy our weaknesses.
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PATRIOTS ARE DOERS!!
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They will work to help the poor and the
needy. They will remove discriminatory barriers and do all the
other that need to be done to make our country better.
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WHY DO SOME KNIGHTS WEAR FEATHERS?
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Not all Knights wear plumes, capes and
swords, only those Knights who belong to the fourth or Patriotic
Degree; These Knights are called Sir Knights; They volunteer at
public functions to add color and dignity to the occasion, and to
demonstrate publicly their loyalty to the church, or to their
country. Preferably, they will function at occasions where the
Bishop presides, but will also demonstrate their regard for other
members of the clergy and religious life by presenting a Guard of
Honor at Jubilees and special church ceremonies.
There is a tendency today to dress; casually; as much as possible,
slacks, no tie, old clothes, shirt open, etc. It takes pain, it
takes nerve, it takes discomfort to be dressed up in black
clothes, with white collar, lined cape and carrying a sword,
wearing a chapeau with feathers. Why do it??
To demonstrate in a positive way that Church, Law, Queen and
country are concepts that deserve our esteem and high regard,
especially during times when authority, law and decency are being
trampled upon and disrespected by so many; It is by one's example
that most preaching is done!!
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SHOULD I JOIN THE FOURTH DEGREE?
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Fourth Degree Knights are dedicated to
promote Patriotism. From community work to parades, fourth degree
members participate in many patriotic endeavors.
Fourth Degree Knights support religious, civic and charitable
causes that are consistent with Knights of Columbus high ideals,
i.e. Financially support and encourage vocations; support
financially and actively pro-life activities; are actively and
financially involved in movements to eliminate pornography,
violence, abuse.
- Fourth Degree Knights work for the application of Christian
principles at all levels of government.
- Fourth Degree Knights oppose the institution and development of
any forces that would undermine good government.
- Fourth Degree Knights educate their membership to be defenders
of democratic institutions.
- Fourth Degree Knights provide a greater knowledge and
appreciation of our Catholic heritage.
- Fourth Degree Knights play important roles in charitable and
religious activities.
- Fourth Degree Knights often make public appearances as Honor
Guards at religious and civic functions.
The Colour Corps is an important part of each Assembly. The
colorful capes and plumed headgear add dignity and pride of church
and country to any event. If you love freedom you should belong to
the fourth Degree. It is a rewarding and responsible way to
exemplify your love of God, Country, Fellowman and the Knights of
Columbus. It is a great way to determine
PATRIOTISM.
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WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO BECOME A FOURTH DEGREE KNIGHT?
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An eligible candidate is a member of the
third Degree in good standing in a Council, and must have been a
Knight in good standing for at least one year.
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HOW DO I JOIN THE FOURTH DEGREE?
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A membership application must be completed
and signed. A fee of $65.00 must accompany the application. This
fee covers one banquet ticket, social baldric, and Supreme
assessment.
Annual dues are $20.00
The dress for Exemplification is: Black tuxedo, formal or white
dress shirt, black bow tie, black shoes and socks. The full
regalia is not a requirement of the Exemplification, it is for
those Sir Knights who serve in their Assembly's Honour Guard.
The cost of 4th Degree Regalia Package is approximately $450.00.
Chilbert and Co. (K of C Tuxedos)
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Our thanks to The Kentucky Knights' Web for
this information
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