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.
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 1 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
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.
Click
here for an introductory video.
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