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| History
The Knights of Columbus, founded by Father McGivney on March 29, 1882,
was originally chartered by the State of Connecticut as the "Knights of
Columbus of New Haven." Its purpose was to provide mutual aid and assistance
to its members and their families. In 1889, a legislative amendment to
the charter authorized the present name "Knights of Columbus."
Originally
the Order had only three degrees, exemplifying the principles of Charity,
Unity
and Fraternity.
As the membership grew, the scope and purpose of the organization increased
and became more diversified. Complying with the wishes of the membership,
the Supreme Board of Directors approved the Fourth Degree in 1900 and
on February 22nd of that year (George Washington's Birthday) the first
Exemplification of the Fourth Degree was held in New York City. ln1903,
an Exemplification was held in St. Paul and the St. Paul Assembly (now
Ravoux) and Nicollet Assembly (Minneapolis) were chartered. We now have
38 Fourth Degree Assemblies in the State of Minnesota, making it possible
for every interested Brother Knight to join an assembly in his own area
and actively participate in Fourth Degree activities.
Membership
in the Patriotic Degree of the
Order has flourished over the years. As of June 30, 2005 the total
members numbered
290,826 with Minnesota claiming some 3,600 Sir Knights.
Purpose The
primary purpose of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus is to inculcate
a love of country and impress the duties of citizenship. Its motto is
Patriotism -- a patriotism enlightened
and informed by religion.
While
the Fourth Degree is the highest and the Honorary Degree of the Order,
a member must maintain his council membership in good standing in order
to retain his Fourth Degree membership.
The Third Degree, through its elected officers, on the Supreme and the State Council levels is the governing body of the Order, with the Supreme Board of Directors, the highest authority. This Board appoints the Supreme Master and the Vice Supreme Masters of the Fourth Degree. A Vice Supreme Master presides over a Province which consists of a number of Districts. The District of Minnesota is part of the Marquette Province which encompasses five districts located in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois. The Supreme Master appoints the Master of the District who supervises the Assemblies in his jurisdiction. The Assemblies, in turn, are composed of members of one or more Councils in the Assembly area.
Applications for membership in the Fourth Degree may be made to any assembly
provided the applicant is:
The Exemplification fee is set annually by the Board of Directors and includes a lapel pin, social baldric and one ticket to the Exemplification Banquet. Members of the Clergy are exempt from the payment of initiation fees and Assembly dues. Official Dress The official dress of the Fourth Degree is black tuxedo, white pleated formal shirt, black tie and cumberbund, black shoes and socks, black studs and cuff links, white suspenders and white gloves. The social baldric identifies you as a Brother Knight and must be worn at all social functions. Officers should wear their jewel of office. The service baldric is used whenever the sword is carried. A "simple" American Flag lapel pin should be worn while in uniform. All Fourth Degree members are encouraged to obtain the full regalia which includes the white plumed chapeaux, red lined cape, service baldric and sword. You will then be ready whenever you are called upon to participate.
Fr Hennepin Rededication Ceremonies, Basilica of St Mary. October 12, 1980 Honor Guards One
of the most important functions of the Fourth Degree is providing
Guards of Honor at Mass, wakes, funerals, dedications and many other
civic or patriotic functions. In full Regalia, with colorful capes
and plumed chapeaux, the Knights of Columbus are always recognized
in any public appearance. These Sir Knights 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.
Nicollet Assembly Marching Unit Parades Participation in parades is an ideal way to bring the Knights of Columbus to the people! Everybody loves a parade and several Fourth Degree assemblies have entered units in their local celebration. This is one of the primary projects of Nicollet Assembly. Its float, color guard and marching unit have appeared in more than 225 parades since 1969, earned over 100 trophies and awards and continue to promote the individual councils and assemblies each year while gaining tremendous exposure for the Order. The float is completely maintained and redecorated each year by members of the marching unit, certainly a most dedicated group of Brother Knights. These men have logged some 30,000 miles, and contributed more than 14,000 man hours in float work, drills and parades.
Nicollet Assembly Float Assembly Activities |
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