EAST STROUDSBURG, PA, June 01, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ — Under the leadership of Pennsylvania Central District Master Brian C. Hallock, new members were inducted into the Fourth Degree, the highest and most visible degree of the Knights of Columbus, during an Exemplification of Patriotism held at St. Matthew’s Church in East Stroudsburg. Taking place on Memorial Day weekend, the occasion carried even deeper meaning as the Knights gathered in a spirit of faith, remembrance, and love of country.
The Exemplification marked a meaningful milestone for the candidates, their families, and the many Sir Knights who gathered to witness and support this important step in their journey of service to Church, country, and community. On a weekend when Americans pause to remember the men and women who gave their lives in defense of freedom, the ceremony served as a powerful reminder that patriotism is rooted not only in words and symbols, but in sacrifice, service, and a willingness to stand for something greater than oneself.
The day began with the Exemplification of Patriotism, during which the candidates formally received the Fourth Degree and embraced its principles of faith-filled citizenship and patriotic service. Family members, fellow Knights, and honored guests were present to witness the ceremony and celebrate this significant achievement.
Following the ceremony, the day continued with Mass, where District Friar Rev. Michael Boris, PGK, served as principal celebrant and Assembly 980 Friar Fr. Brian J. T. Clarke concelebrated. During the procession, the new Sir Knights were formally welcomed as part of the celebration, marking the beginning of their Fourth Degree journey in a spirit of faith and fraternity.
The Fourth Degree is widely recognized as the patriotic degree of the Knights of Columbus. Its members are committed to promoting the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism while standing as visible witnesses to faith and civic responsibility. Through participation in patriotic programs, community service, religious events, and the Honor Guard, Fourth Degree Sir Knights continue to serve as a powerful public presence of Catholic gentlemen dedicated to God and country.
“This Exemplification was not simply a ceremony; it was a celebration of commitment,” said Master Brian Hallock. “Held on Memorial Day weekend, it reminded us that patriotism must always be joined to gratitude, service, and remembrance. These men have chosen to take the next step in living out the ideals of the Knights of Columbus, and their willingness to serve, to lead, and to stand proudly for faith and country is an inspiration to all of us.”
The event at St. Matthew’s brought together Knights, families, clergy, and dignitaries from across the District. The day reflected the deep traditions of the Fourth Degree while also reminding those in attendance that patriotism is not only about ceremony, but about action, sacrifice, and service to others.
Following the Mass, the Exemplification concluded with a banquet where Master Hallock and Exemplification Honoree Joseph Galayda addressed the gathering. Both offered words of encouragement, gratitude, and engagement to the newly exemplified Sir Knights, challenging them to remain active in their councils, assemblies, parishes, and communities while embracing the responsibilities and opportunities of Fourth Degree membership.
The Pennsylvania Central District extends its appreciation to Rev. Don Williams and St. Matthew’s Church, host Assembly 980, the Degree Team, Color Corps, volunteers, families, and all who helped make the Exemplification a memorable and dignified occasion.
As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th Anniversary, the message of the Fourth Degree remains especially timely. In a nation built upon faith, courage, sacrifice, and service, the Knights of Columbus continue to call Catholic men to be faithful citizens, active leaders, and defenders of the values that strengthen both Church and nation.
For the newly exemplified Sir Knights, the day marked not an ending, but a beginning a renewed call to serve with honor, lead with conviction, remember those who sacrificed for freedom, and carry forward the proud patriotic legacy of the Knights of Columbus.
The Pennsylvania Central District of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus serves Sir Knights and Assemblies throughout the central region of the Commonwealth. As part of the patriotic degree of the Knights of Columbus, the District promotes faithful citizenship, love of country, service to the Church, support for veterans, respect for civic institutions, and public witness through the Color Corps. Under the leadership of the District Master, the Pennsylvania Central District works to strengthen Fourth Degree membership, support local Assemblies, encourage patriotic programs, and inspire Catholic gentlemen to live out the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism in their parishes, communities, and nation.
Website: https://4kofc.org
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