Fourth Degree assemblies mark 75th anniversary

By RENATO GANDIA
WCR Staff Writer
Edmonton

Calgary's Father Doucet Assembly No. 006 and Edmonton's St. Joseph's Assembly No. 005 will each hold a dinner and dance to commemorate the anniversaries of their charter, on Oct. 18 and 19 respectively.

Chartered on Oct. 8, 1927, the two assemblies were the only fourth degree assemblies in the Alberta-Northwest Territories jurisdiction until 1954. Since then 24 assemblies have been chartered.

Named after a pioneer Oblate missionary among the native peoples of southern Alberta, the Calgary assembly has 183 members while St. Joseph's has 230 members.

The fourth degree, also called the patriotic degree, is the highest degree to which a K of C member can aspire.

The first exemplification of that degree was held in New York City on Feb. 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 this degree is to foster the spirit of patriotism by promoting responsible citizenship and a love of and loyalty to the Knights' respective countries.

Fourth degree members must retain their membership as third degree members in their local council to remain in good standing.

Some members of the fourth degree serve as honour guards at civic and religious functions.

Members of this degree are given a special emblem that reminds them of their commitment to conduct themselves honour-ably as Christian gentlemen in their private and public lives, as well as to act patriotically for the good of their nations.

Likewise, they also bear swords symbolizing the bearers' reverence for the Eucharist and the pope, bishops and hierarchy of the Church, and to display publicly their willingness to protect the Church and clergy.

They also wear the sacred symbol of the Blessed Trinity on their lapels and swords. This should always remind them to live a good Christian life.

Calgary's celebration will be held at the Carriage House Inn. For tickets call 254-2502. Edmonton will hold its event at the Ramada Hotel on Kingsway. Call 451-2953 for tickets.

Copyright © 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 -- Western Catholic Reporter