By now, you may have heard about the Knights changing their admission ceremony. We are pulling down a veil of secrecy surrounding our ceremonies. This is an effort to showcase our core principles and encourage Catholic men to become spiritual leaders in this family, parish and community.
“There is nothing we do that is secret or needs to be secret. We decided this is a way to let other parishioners know, family members know, what the Knights of Columbus is all about. And we think that’s a good thing.”
Supreme Knight Carl Anderson
Why have these changes been made?
The future of our Order depends upon growth. True growth can only be accomplished by providing an inviting entry path that is accessible to prospective members and their families. Efforts to create a combined ceremony focused on 1.) removing the barriers of secrecy and 2.) the commitment of time inhibiting many from joining. It also focuses on presenting the lessons of Charity, Unity and Fraternity in a clear and convincing manner. This new Exemplification is designed to be held in a parish with family and friends seated in the pews. All can now witness – firsthand – the organization their husbands, fathers and brothers are joining; its principles, values, and why they matter. The new Exemplification of Charity, Unity and Fraternity stays true to our traditions while addressing the needs of our times.
What Should People Wear?
This is not a casual event.
CANDIDATES: Please wear a suit and tie, but a collared dress shirt with dress pants is also appropriate.
PRESENTERS: The preferred attire is suit and tie with ceremonial baldric. At the very minimum shirt, blazer, and slacks with ceremonial baldric.
COUNCIL OFFICERS: The preferred attire is suit and tie with Medal of Office. Matching, branded Knights of Columbus Council shirts would also be appropriate.
More Info on K of C’s New Ceremonial
It’s the beginning of a new era for the Knights of Columbus: A modern single, public exemplification ceremony can now be used to welcome men to our ranks as full members of the Order. The new ceremony combines the three ceremonies used in the past.
This issue takes an in-depth look at the new exemplification ceremony: what it is, why it’s changed and how you can run one.
New Ceremony: Rooted in past and tailored for present (Read more here)
Eight steps for a successful new exemplification (Read more here)
The four items every council needs (Read more here)
FAQs about the new K of C exemplification (Read more here)
Five questions with new director of ceremonials (Read more here)
Who’s who at the new K of C exemplification (Read more here)
A momentous day for the Knights of Columbus (Read more here)