Rev. M. B. Roddan Assembly #108
BASIC INFORMATION ON JOINING THE FOURTH DEGREE
WHY
SHOULD I JOIN THE FOURTH DEGREE?
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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 $XX.00 must accompany the application.
This fee covers one banquet ticket, social baldric, and Supreme
assessment.
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 cape, sword and chapeau is approximately C$500.00.
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Our thanks to The Kentucky Knights' Web for this
information
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