Upcoming Major Degrees

None at this time.

About Degrees

The four Knights of Columbus degrees are ceremonial classes based on the principles of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism.

Admissions Degree

The First (Admissions) Degree introduces the candidate for Knighthood to the virtue of charity. Men are initiated into the organization upon receiving this degree. Councils are encouraged to schedule an Admissions (First) Degree on a regular basis. This ensures the availability for new members to be initiated into the Order quickly after being accepted by the council.

Formation and Knighthood Degrees

The Second (Formation) Degree is an exemplification of the principle of unity, while the Third (Knighthood) Degree is a course on fraternity. A traditional knighting-by-sword concludes this ceremony, conferring upon the recipients the honors of full knighthood, including eligibility to hold elected office in their councils. Councils wishing to host a Formation (Second) and/or Knighthood (Third) Degree should send a formal request to the State Ceremonials Director. This request should include a few suggested dates, in case there is a State Council function scheduled for the preferred date.

Patriotic Degree

The Fourth (Patriotic) Degree instills pride in one's Catholic heritage and emphasizes the duties of responsible citizenship. Councils wishing to host a Patriotic (Fourth) Degree Exemplification should send a formal request to the District Master. This request should include a few suggested dates, in case there is a State Council function scheduled for the preferred date.

Eligibility for the Fourth Degree
Hosting Assembly Guide
Sample Exemplification Schedule