1st Degree Knight
Once a candidate completes
the First Degree ceremony on the lesson of charity, he is
considered a Knight of Columbus and can participate in all
council activities.
2nd Degree Knight
First Degree members are
encouraged to attain the Second and Third Degrees, which teach
the lessons of unity and fraternity. Upon taking the Third
Degree, a member receives full honors of Knighthood and is
"Knighted."
3rd Degree Knight
Privileges of Third Degree
membership include the ability to serve as a local council
officer, and admission to state and Supreme Council business
meetings. First and Second Degree members can attend the state
and Supreme Council meetings, but they are not allowed in the
business sessions.
4th Degree Knight
A Fourth Degree Knight may
become part of the assembly's color corps. These members are
recognized widely by their distinctive attire of tuxedo,
feathered hat (chapeau), cape and sword. These members regularly
take part in civic events such as parades and wreath-laying
ceremonies, and at ecclesial functions at Catholic churches. The
various colored capes and chapeau feathers denote different
officer positions within the Fourth Degree
