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The Patriotic Degree of the Knights of Columbus
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.
Our local Assembly is located at 202 Edwards St., Georgetown, De., and meets at St. Michaels Church on the third Monday of every month. Membership in our Assembly comes from councils located in the lower portion of the state which includes six councils in our district.
Father Roman's retirement mass in 2006 at St. Jude The Apostle Church in Lewes, De.
Members of the Fourth Degree can serve as honor guards at religious and civic functions, an activity that has brought worldwide recognition to the Knights of Columbus.
The Purpose of the Color Corps
In those days when knighthood was in flower, the Knights of old carried the sword to defend God, Church, Country and fellow man according to the code of chivalry. In our times, Sir Knights wear regalia and carry the sword to honor Christ and His Apostles, especially on the religious and civic occasions.
The public appearance of the Fourth Degree Knights as honor guards at civic and religious functions is an important activity of each assembly. Their colorful capes and chapeaux add dignity and a pride of church and country to any event. By these public demonstrations, their loyalties bring credit to themselves and to the Knights of Columbus.
The color corps has two sub-groups, the honor guard and color guard. The honor guard are members of the color corps who have mastered the manual of the sword. The color guard are the flag bearers and at least two honor guards escorting the colors.
In many assemblies, all members of the color corps belong to the honor guard. Hence, in practice, they are referred to by either term.
