Fourth Degree Emblem of the Order

Greater Cincinnati Chapter
The Emblem of the Fourth Degree, Knights of Columbus

The Degree of Patriotism

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: charit, 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 partiotism 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.

Certain members of the Fourth Degree serve as honor guards at civic and religious functions, an activity which has brought worldwide recognition to the Knights of Columbus organization.

The Knights of Columbus, an array of dedicated Catholic gentlemen, glory in the epithet.

"The Right Arm of the Catholic Church"

Sir Knights of the Forth Degree, deem it an honor and privilege to carry our TRIAD EMBLEM, which features The Dove, The Cross, and The Globe. Our Honored Order cherishes as its Patron, Christopher Columbus.

Christopher Crist-Bearer, Columbus Dove of Peace, symbolizing the Paraclete. And, as the Cross of Christ is the sign of our Christian faith, similarly, the Globe Depicts the New World, the miraculous discovery of Columbus.

Spiritually, the sacred symbols fashioned on our sword and lapel pin, typify the union of the Three Divine Persons in one Godhead The Most Holy Trinity.

The Globe God the Father, Creator of the Universe.
The Cross God the Son, Redeemer of Mankind.
The Dove God the Holy Spirit, Sanctifier of Humanity.

God willing, may we, Christian Soldiers in the Columbian Crusade, lend loyalty to Our Honored Order, patriotism to our beloved America and devotion to Holy Mother Church all, for the Greater Glory of God Almighty.