The Patriotic Degree

Another degree open to members in the Knights of Columbus is the Fourth Degree. The first exemplification of that degree was held in New York City, on February 22, 1900. The ritual added patriotism to the three 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 their locals council to remain in good standing.

4th Degree Emblem Symbolism

The triad emblem of the Fourth Degree features the Dove, the Cross, and the Globe.
The Dove - classic symbol of the Holy Spirit and Peace - is shown hovering over the orb of the earth (Globe). Both are mounted on a variation of the Crusader's Cross - that which was found on the tunics and capes of the Crusading Knights who battled to regain the Holy Land from the pagans.


Our Honored Order cherishes as its patron Christopher Columbus.

Christopher - Christ Bearer
Columbus - Dove of Peace, symbolizing the Paraclete.
Spiritually, the sacred symbols on the emblem typify the Union of the Three Divine Persons in one Godhead the most Blessed 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
The colors of the symbols are:

A blue Globe with the lands of the Western Hemisphere in white.

A red Cross with gold borders, and gold knobs at the end of the points forming the ends of the arms of the Cross (also known as the Isabella Cross).

A white dove.
Red, white and blue are the colors of the flag of the country in which our Order originated; and are used to stress the basic principle of the Fourth Degree . . . PATRIOTISM.

Considered under a religious aspect, we have the honor and privilege of wearing on our swords and our lapels the sacred symbol of the Most Blessed Trinity. This should always remind us to live a good Christian life, and that we should never bring dishonor on the emblem we have been privileged to wear. By this, others may see our good works, through which we will glorify our Holy Religion, our Honored Order and our Beloved Country.



This information provided by Kansas Knights of Columbus Website.