3rd Degree

The Columbian coat of arms consists solely of straight lines and angles, symbolizing the determination, tenacity, firmness and courage that the Order's founders had to demonstrate in the face of difficulties to surmount, problems to solve to defend their faith and their rights in a milieu ill-suited to the growth of their Movement. The Columbian Coat of Arms contains three symbolic elements: the sword, the anchor and the battle axe, recalling the noble and illustrious deeds of the Order's founders. The sword and the anchor, placed one over the other, form a sort of "X" or St Andrew's cross. The sword symbolizes honor, distinction, bravery and courage. The anchor, an instrument designed to hold a ship in place, represents that which attaches, stops, consolidates and stabilizes. The battle axe, placed on the shield, symbolizes action taken to overcome obstacles or ambushes on the road to accomplishing one's objectives. The bundle represents the solid grouping of people come together to realize a common ideal under the guidance of a recognized leader. It symbolizes teamwork, the strength inherent in unity and fraternity. The helmet, placed on the upper part of the Coat of Arms represents rank or degree of nobility. On the coat of arms of a warrior it is the noblest and principal ornament. The little white triangle, above the helmet and pointing upward, symbolizes the flame which lights and guides.

Our Founder

Michael Joseph McGivney (August 12, 1852 – August 14, 1890) was an American Catholic priest based in New Haven, Connecticut. He founded the Knights of Columbus at a local parish to serve as a mutual aid and fraternal insurance organization, particularly for immigrants and their families. It developed through the 20th century as the world's largest Catholic fraternal organization. The cause for his canonization started in the Archdiocese of Hartford in 1996; in March 2008, Pope Benedict XVI declared McGivney "Venerable" in recognition of his "heroic virtue".

4th Degree

The Fourth Degree emblem is made up of three distinct symbols which represent the three persons of the Holy Trinity. The cross represents God the Son, redeemer of all men.The globe represents God the Father, creator of the universe and all things visible and invisible. The Dove represents God the Holy Spirit, sanctifier of the world, breath of life and inspiration for all men. These three symbols remind the Knights that they have the faith and belief in the Trinity. The Colors Blue (azure) symbolic of innocence. White (silver) is the symbol of integrity. Yellow (gold) is intended as the symbol for the riches acquired through hard work. Red stands for courage, valor and giving of one's self. The colors emphasize the basic principle of the Fourth Degree: PATRIOTISM.