Who Are the Fourth Degree Knights?

The Patriotic Degree reminds us of our duty to God and country.

They are the Knights on Main Street, the men you probably envision when someone says Knights of Columbus to you. They’re present in their distinct regalia at civic and Church events, acting as honor guards and color corps, or standing in respect at the funerals of members or during adoration of the Eucharist.

But there is more to being a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus than a uniform. They are the men who have chosen to embrace the Order’s fourth principle of patriotism, the men who lead the efforts to reach out to veterans and active military and to embody the fact that one can be a faithful Catholic and also be a faithful citizen.

The underlying principle of the Fourth Degree is patriotism. Patriotism is about duty and honor to God and country. As Fourth Degree Knights we exemplify the elements of patriotism by practising the principles of good catholic citizenship.

It was established in New York on February 22,1900. The requirements for joining the 4th are that a brother Knight must be a third degree member in good standing, be an exemplary Catholic, and be of sound citizenship of his country.

The Fourth Degree is frequently regarded as an honorary title with it's uniform but should rather be thought of in terms of service to church and country, and the goals of the Fourth Degree may be summarized as the promotion of the ideals of Catholicism and Patriotism side by side.

The principles of catholic citizenship are:

• To respect and obey all lawful authority
  
• To uphold and maintain those whose duty it is to administer the laws
  
• To defend and preserve, unspotted and unstained the flag of our country
  
• To maintain unity and practice the virtues of charity and brotherly love
  
• To exemplify, in all our relations with our fellow man, the sublime teachings of the Holy Catholic Church.

Qualifications to Become a Fourth Degree Member:

• Over 18 years of age
  
• A citizen of the country where you reside
  
• A practical Catholic in union with the Holy See
  
• A Third Degree member in good standing
  

CLICK HERE to see your invitation to join the 4th Degree.

If you meet all of the above qualifications, contact your Grand Knight to start the process of joining the 4th Degree.