What
is the 4th Degree?
The
Fourth Degree was not one of the original principles of the order.
Originally, our principles were based on Charity, Unity, and
Fraternity. However in 1886, the principal of Patriotism was
considered as an addition to the original principals for multiple
reasons. The rapid expansion of the Order across
Canada
and the
United
States, the enthusiasm generated by
ceremonials, and activities of the first three Degrees generated a
great interest for the establishment of the Fourth Degree. It was
said, however, that the driving force behind the 4th Degree was the
then prevalent spirit of anti-Catholicism which questioned a
Knight's loyalty and patriotism. Knights were also falsely charged
with owing our allegiance to the Pope in
Rome
and being less loyal and devoted to our own country. The
establishment of the Fourth Degree, dedicated to the principle of
Patriotism, was a rebuttal of such charges.By putting words into action a Knight will demonstrate
the principal of Patriotism. We do this from multiple fronts:
-
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.
-
Fourth Degree Knights often make public appearances as Honor Guards at
religious and civic functions.
|
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. Now,
any Third Degree member in good standing 6 months
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 assemblies. Certain members of the Fourth Degree serve as
honor guards at civic and religious functions, an activity that has
brought worldwide recognition to the Knights of
Columbus. You may recognize 4th degree Honor
Guard members as they wear a tux, colorful capes, chapeaux
(feathered hats), white gloves, and a sword.
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.
By joining the Fourth Degree you have enriched your commitment to
your country and the Order and you have joined the highest and most
prestigious degree in the Knights of
Columbus. It is a membership that gives you
an opportunity to build pride, show your love for our country,
promote responsible citizenship and strengthen your knowledge and
appreciation of your Catholic heritage. You can reach your highest
potential as a Knight of Columbus and receive the honor to be
addressed as “Sir Knight.”
|
|
You’re invited! Join the Fourth Degree |
|
