The Third Degree Emblem

The Emblem of the order dates from the Second Supreme meeting, May 12, 1883, when it was designed by James T. Mullen, who was then the first Supreme Knight.  A quick glance at the emblem indicates  a shield mounted upon the cross of Malta.    

The Shield is that associated with a  medieval Knight.  The cross of Malta is the representation of a traditionally artistic design of the Cross of Christ through which all graces of redemption were procured for mankind.  This then, represents the Catholic spirit of the Order. 

Mounted on the shield are three objects, a mace standing vertically, and, crossed behind it, an anchor and a dagger or short sword.  The mace from Roman days is symbolic of authority, which must exist in any tightly bonded and efficiently operating organization.  The anchor is the mariner's symbol for Columbus, patron of the Order,  while the short sword or dagger was the weapon of the Knight when engaged upon an errand of  mercy. 

Thus, the shield expresses Catholic Knighthood in organized merciful action and with the letters K of C, it proclaims this specific form of activity. The red, white and blue in the background are the colors of the flag of the country in which the order originated.

FAITH...  HOPE...  CHARITY

Red is the symbol of Faith, of belief in Christ, in the Redemption and in the mission of every man to spread the knowledge and love of Jesus Christ. 

White is the color of the Eucharistic Host, symbolizing God's presence among men and of the infinite love God has for man. White is then the symbol of Christ-like Charity.

Blue is the color of Our Lady's mantle in which she draped her beloved Son, through Whom salvation came to a sinful world. Blue is then the symbol of Hope.

The Fourth Degree Emblem (Degree of Patriotism)

The Knights of Columbus, an array of dedicated Catholic gentlemen, glory in the epithet: "The right arm of the Catholic Church."

Sir Knights of the Fourth Degree deem it an honor and privilege to carry the triad emblem, which features the Dove, Cross, and Globe.

Our honored Order cherishes its patron Christopher Columbus.  Christopher "Christ bearer" Columbus.   The Dove of Peace symbolizes the Paraciete.   The Cross of Christ is the sign of our Christian faith; similarly, the Globe depicts the New World, the miraculous discovery of Columbus.   Spiritually, the sacred symbols fashioned on our sword and lapel pin typify the union of the three divine Persons in one Godhead, the Most Holy Trinity.

The Globe - God the Father, Creator of the Universe

The Cross - God the Son, Redeemer of Mankind

The Dove - God the Holy Spirit, Sanctifier of Humanity

God willing, may we, Christian Soldiers in the Columbian Crusade, lend loyalty to our honored Order, Patriotism to our beloved America, and Devotion the Holy Mother Church, all for the greater glory of God Almighty.