Membership in the Knights

Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to practical Catholic men in union with the Holy See, who are at least 18 years old. A practical Catholic is one who lives up to the Commandments of God and the precepts of the Church. Application blanks are available from any member of the Knights of Columbus.

All priests and religious brothers having duly made application for membership and participated in the ceremonials become honorary life members of the Order and are exempt from payment of dues.

Candidates join local units, called "councils," most of which are based in one Catholic parish, or in the community at large. The candidate takes part in initiation degrees that explain the Knights of Columbus´ four principles: Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism.

A candidate is considered a "Knight" after taking his First Degree, but he is encouraged to advance through the Second and Third Degrees and on to the Fourth Degree, whose members promote the virtue of patriotism by serving in honor guards, color corps and promoting respect for country and the flag.

Knights of Columbus have a proud heritage. The qualified Catholic man can share in this heritage and build for an even greater future by affiliating himself with this forceful, effective fraternal organization. For an inspiring look at what it means to be part of the Knights of Columbus, see the video introduction, In Service to One, In Service to All.

College Councils and the Columbian Squires

In addition to the regular councils of the Knights of Columbus, the Knights sponsor college councils which enlist the enthusiasm of college and university students in Catholic devotions and service projects to their local communities. The college councils train the young men to be leaders of tomorrow, and many of the current leaders in the Knights of Columbus come from the college council ranks. To support and encourage these councils, each year the Supreme Council hosts a College Council Conference in New Haven.

Under the guidance of Christian Brother Barnabas McDonald (1865-1929), the first Columbian Squires circle was instituted in 1925. Membership in the Squires is for Catholic boys between the ages of 12 and 17. As of June 1999, the Columbian Squires has 25,234 members in 1166 circles, located in the U.S., Canada, the Philippines, Mexico, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Guam. Squires´ activities are many, varying from spiritual to active service for the Church and community. Each circle elects officer members from their own rank, teaching skills of leadership and responsibility. The year 2000 marks the 75th anniversary of the Squires — 75 years of providing support to thousands of young men on their way to adulthood.

For more information on becoming a Columbian Squire, call (203) 772-2130, ext. 402, or write to: squires@kofc.org

4th Degree Knights
The Patriotic Degree

Another degree open to members in the Knights of Columbus is the Fourth Degree. The first exemplification of that degree was held in New York City, on February 22, 1900. The ritual added patriotism to the three principles of the Order: charity, unity and fraternity. Any Third Degree member in good standing, one year after the anniversary of his First Degree, is eligible for membership in the Fourth Degree.

The primary purpose of the Fourth Degree is to foster the spirit of patriotism by promoting responsible citizenship and a love of and loyalty to the Knights´ respective countries through active membership in local Fourth Degree groups (called "assemblies").Fourth Degree members must retain their membership as Third Degree members in their locals council to remain in good standing.

Certain members of the Fourth Degree serve as honor guards at civic and religious functions, an activity that has brought worldwide recognition to the Knights of Columbus.

To the left is pictured the Fourth Degree Emblem. Bearers of this emblem are committed to conduct themselves honorably as Christian gentlemen in their private and public lives, as well as acting patriotically for the good of their nations. Likewise, the Fourth Degree sword represents the bearer´s reverence for the Eucharist and the Pope, bishops and hierarchy of the Church, and displays publicly his willingness to protect his Church and priests.

Considered under a religious aspect, we have the honor and privilege of wearing on our swords and our lapels the sacred symbol of the Most Blessed Trinity. This should always remind us to live a good Christian life, and that we should never bring dishonor on the emblem we have been privileged to wear. By this, others may see our good works, through which we will glorify our Holy Religion, our Honored Order and our Beloved Country.

Knights of Columbus Council 7613, San Antonio, Texas

For more information about joining the Knights of Columbus Council 7613, write to:

Knights of Columbus Council 7613
St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church
1602 Thousand Oaks Drive
San Antonio, TX 78232.

Calling all St. Mark Men 18 yrs and older.
Come learn who & what the Knights of Columbus @ St. Mark is all about.

Why Be a Member?

Membership in the Knights of Columbus provides the opportunity for wholesome association with congenial companions who are, first of all, practical Catholic gentlemen. It offers the opportunity for fellowship with those who are of the same belief, who recognize the same duty to GOD, to family and to neighbor and who stand side by side in defense of those beliefs. Through many constructive activities of Christian fraternity, members are enabled to render service to their Church, their Country and their fellowman.

Orientation will be held every 1st Thursday of each month. Gather on the steps outside of the old Sanctuary at 6:45 p.m. Come meet some of the Men who call themselves Knights of Columbus members at St. Mark. If you have any questions please contact Bill Faucher, Membership Director.