The Knights of Columbus, a “Catholic, family, fraternal, service organization,” according to the organization’s recruiting pamphlet, was founded in 1882 by Catholic men in New Haven, Conn. The organization stresses both patriotism and Catholicism, linking them through brotherhood.

The members’ mantra includes the watchwords: charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism.

The organization’s name combines a desire for a patriotic flair (Knights) and the Catholic explorer who first set foot on the shores of this country (Columbus).

There are four degrees of knighthood to which members may aspire. The first teaches the lesson of charity; in the second, the importance of unity to Catholics in general and to the Knights in particular.

The third degree is akin to the catechism teachings young Catholics learn while preparing for confirmation. The fourth degree, imbued with patriotism, is the visible, uniformed body of the Knights – those members are usually seen in parades and at other public functions.

The fourth degree also imparts an appreciation for the contribution of Catholics to American history. – By Linda Galway