History & Structure of the Fourth Degree
The compass of virtue has four points: charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. The Fourth (Patriotic) Degree is the most colorful and enlightening degree of our Order. The Order originally had three degrees, but near the end of the 19th century, the membership petitioned for a new degree to be called “Patriotic.” The Board of Directors of the Knights of Columbus approved the request and the first exemplification was held in New York City on February 22, 1900. More than 1000 Third Degree members received this honor. Members receiving the Patriotic (4th) Degree are called Sir Knights.
The Fourth Degree of the Knights of Columbus was built on the principle of patriotism, love for and devotion to one’s country. Fourth Degree Knights focus the majority of their activities on this principle. Be it known that the Fourth Degree is an important part of the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic, family, fraternal, service organization. Nurturing a spirit of fraternalism within our Assembly is a vital aspect of the work of the Fourth Degree. The members celebrate and perpetuate patriotism, and demonstrate national pride. This is visually exemplified by our dedicated members of the Color Corps in national, community, and church ceremonies.
PLEASE NOTE -- EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, THERE IS NO LONGER ANY WAITING PERIOD TO JOIN THE FOURTH DEGREE. ANY THIRD DEGREE MEMBER IN GOOD STANDING IS NOW ELIGIBLE REGARDLESS OF HOW LONG HE HAS BEEN A MEMBER OF THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS.
The structure of the Fourth Degree consists of the Supreme Assembly, Provinces and Provincial Assemblies, Districts and District Assemblies, and Assemblies. The Supreme Assembly is composed of the Supreme Master, Supreme Knight, Supreme Secretary, and Vice Supreme Masters. Their duties are to give careful consideration to all matters concerning the welfare of the Fourth Degree. Each Province and Provincial Assembly are headed by a Vice Supreme Master, who has general supervision over Masters, assemblies, and 4th Degree Exemplifications in his Province. Each Province is divided into Districts. Each District Assembly is composed of the Faithful Navigator and one delegate for each 100 members in each Assembly in the District. Each District is headed by a Master who has been appointed by the Supreme Master.
An Assembly is established by Fourth Degree members in an area by requesting the Master of the District to petition the Vice Supreme Master to recommend to the Supreme Master and Board of Directors to create an Assembly.
