Fourth Degree
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nother 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: 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 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.
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