Nearly 300 members of the Knights of Columbus convened Saturday, Oct. 13, at the Torrance Marriott Hotel to receive Fourth Degree status, the highest degree the order can confer. Its members are referred to as “Sir Knight”.
After taking their third degree, knights are eligible to receive their fourth degree, the primary purpose of which is to foster the spirit of patriotism and to encourage active Catholic citizenship. Fourth degree members, in addition to being members of their individual councils, are also members of Fourth-Degree assemblies which typically comprise members of several councils.
One of many responsibilities of this group includes escorting the Bishop during visits to the local churches, attending funeral Masses for brother Knights, engaging and inspiring Patriotic Catholicism.
Districts are divided by assemblies which include the various councils of a particular order, such as those in Southern California. Each assembly is led by a Navigator. The Color Corp is the most visible arm of the Knights of Columbus. The Color Corps escorts the Bishops, appears at parades, attend funerals and other special events.
St. Pope John Paul II referred to the order as the “strong right arm of the Church” for their support of the church, as well as for their philanthropic and charitable efforts. In the past year, the order gave over $175 million directly to charity and performed over 73.5 million man-hours of voluntary service. Worldwide membership reached 1,967,585 in 2018.