Exemplification
Our Symbol:
Spiritually, the sacred symbols fashioned on our sword and lapel pin, typify the
union of the Three Divine Persons in one Godhead The Most Holy Trinity.
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The Globe: God the
Father, Creator of the Universe.
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The Cross: God the
Son, Redeemer of Mankind.
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The Dove: God the
Holy Spirit, Sanctifier of Humanity.
History:
In the early years of the Fourth Degree,
members met as part of their councils, mostly after meetings. In 1910, during a
reorganization of the Order's leadership, the first Assemblies were created.
Additionally the position of Supreme Master was established to lead the Fourth
Degree internationally. Vice Supreme Masters lead Provinces and Masters head
Districts. This system has spread and flourished as Sir Knights not only serve
their local Church through their service to local councils but also their joint
efforts in these Assemblies. The Honor Guard, first called for in 1886 was
officially formed in 1902, for ceremonial purposes. Since that time, the
uniforms of the Color Corps have varied, however all have shared the similar
theme of mariners. Most noticeable in today's current uniform is the chapeau
worn with ostrich feathers.
Events:
First Exemplification
The first Exemplification of the new Degree was scheduled to be held in the Astor Hotel in New York City on February 22, 1900. However, there were so many candidates, the Exemplification had to be moved to a larger venue. Therefore the site was moved to the Lenox Lyceum. At this first Exemplification of the Fourth Degree 1,100 members of the Knights of Columbus, being in good standing "took their fourth." The second Exemplification, held in Boston on May 8, 1900 saw another 750 Third Degree knights join the ranks of Sir Knights.
Membership:
The Fourth Degree ritual added patriotism to the three original principles of the Order: charity, unity and fraternity. Any Third Degree member in good standing, with at least six months membership in the order - 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 the local council to remain in good standing
Exemplification:
Information:
Click
Here for Irvine October 8, 2011
Information Package FOR CANDIDATES
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We invite members of your Council to join the Fourth Degree. Sir Knights of the Fourth Degree, deem it an honor and privilege to carry our TRIAD EMBLEM, which features The Dove, The Cross, and The Globe. Our Honored Order cherishes as its Patron, Christopher Columbus.
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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 the local council to remain in good standing.
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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.
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The Fourth Degree official regalia dress for members
is as follows:
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Black Tuxedo
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Plain White Tuxedo Shirt - pleated and with collar
(No wing tip collars)
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Black Bow Tie · Tuxedo Studs and Cuff Links
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Black Cummerbund - (No Vests)
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Black Footwear
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Social Baldric (Worn under the coat, from right shoulder
to
left hip)
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Lapel Pin (The only pin worn on the lapel is the official pin of the Fourth Degree, which is available from the Knights
of Columbus
supreme Supply Department – item PG-113)
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Name Badge.
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Items to Remember for Fourth Degree Exemplification
· The official dress for the Fourth Degree Exemplification is black tuxedo, black bow tie, plain white tuxedo shirt (NO wing tip shirts), black shoes, and black cummerbund. Religious and members of the armed services may wear their clerical garb or dress uniform respectively. NO lapel pins and jewel of office to be worn during exemplification by candidates. You must have your Third Degree membership card with you for the Fourth Degree Exemplification.
· Any Third Degree member in good standing, with at least six months membership in the order is eligible for membership in the Fourth Degree.
· A Ladies Luncheon is provided for your wife’s entertainment and enjoyment during the actual Exemplification ceremony. Our Assembly number is 85. Ladies look for Assembly 85 tables.
· Evening banquet tickets will be distributed in the lobby of the hotel only. Seating at tables is assigned by the District Master. You can NOT switch seats. If you wish to sit together as a group, you MUST provide this information to Ronald Knowles at the information meeting.
· El Camino Real annual dues are $35. Fourth Degree Meetings are held the SECOND Thursday of each month at 6:30 pm in the classroom at the Brothers of St. Patrick, 7820 Bolsa Ave., Midway City, CA 92655. Bring your Third and Fourth Degree membership cards to every meeting and event.
