The Fourth Degree is the Patriotic Degree of the Knights of Columbus, and it comprises over 17% of the membership of the Order.

Each district is presided over by an executive officer, the Master. A province is further divided into districts, which normally (with few exceptions) coincide with state boundaries. The executive officer of the province is the Vice Supreme Master. The executive officer of the Fourth Degree is the Supreme Master. Our province consists of the states of Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia, and is referred to as the Father Edward F. The Fourth Degree is currently organized into 21 geographical units known as provinces. Along with the addition of “patriotism” to the Knights’ principles in 1900 came the first exemplification of the Fourth Degree which was held on Februin New York City with a class of 1,100 Knights.

Mullen proposed the patriotic degree and the Supreme Board of Directors approved the formation of the Fourth Degree in 1899. In 1886, four years after our Order was established, Supreme Knight James T. The Fourth Degree is a visible reminder of our service to the community.

Honor guards at Mass for confirmations, funerals, and memorial services, in addition to Color Corps representation at federal, state and local ceremonies, such as parades and wreath-laying ceremonies. The Fourth Degree is patriotism in action, i.e. It is a rewarding way to combine our Catholic heritage with our love of our country. The Fourth Degree, also known as the Patriotic Degree, is the highest degree of the Knights of Columbus, and it exists to foster the spirit of patriotism, enlightened by our Catholic Faith.

Knights of columbus 4th degree