Another degree open to members of the Knights of Columbus
is that of the Fourth (or Patriotic) Degree. On February 22,
1900, the first Fourth Degree exemplification, or degree
ceremony, was held in New York City. The Fourth Degree
imparts a lesson on the virtue of patriotism. The primary
purpose of this degree is to foster the spirit of patriotism
in members and the community at large, and encourage active
Catholic citizenship. Today there are some 300,000 Fourth
Degree Knights, out of the total 1.6 million member Knights
of Columbus.
Local units, called assemblies, draw their members from
Knights of Columbus councils. The qualifications for
membership in the Fourth Degree are: membership in the
Knights for at least one year and being a Third Degree
Knight. Once you have been bestowed the honor of Knighthood,
you will continue your journey in learning the lesson of
patriotism. The primary purpose of your Fourth Degree
membership is to foster the spirit of patriotism in members
and the community at large and encourage active Catholic
citizenship.
As a Fourth Degree Knight you have the opportunity to
become part of your assembly's color corps. As a color corps
member, you will be recognized widely by the distinctive
attire of tuxedo, feathered hat (chapeau), cape, and sword.
Color corps members regularly take part in civic events such
as parades and wreath-laying ceremonies, and in ecclesial
functions at Catholic churches. The various colored capes
and chapeau feathers denote different officer positions
within the Fourth Degree.
Faithful Friar: SK Fr. Pete Leonard, OSFS
Faithful Navigator: SK Mark Nienhuis
Faithful Captain: SK Alex Papp
Faithful Pilot: SK Matt Hinshaw
Faithful Comptroller: SK Joe Hughes
Faithful Scribe: Rick Boedicker
Faithful Purser: SK Joe DiPaola
Faithful Inner Sentinel: SK R.V. Wakefield
Faithful Outer Sentinel: SK Russell Corley
Faithful Admiral: SK Tim Knorr
One Year Trustee: SK Frank Skinner
Two Year Trustee: SK Tim Knorr
Three Year Trustee: SK Ed Christian
