We are very happy to announce that four of our council members were elevated to Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus on Sunday.

The Fourth Degree is the patriotic degree of the KofC, tasked with fostering a spirit of patriotism by promoting responsible citizenship and a love of and loyalty to the United States of America.

Congratulations to Council Grand Knight Jim Cosgrove, Deputy Grand Knight Mike Walsh, Financial Secretary Neal Cullen and Treasurer Ed Welsh.

The investiture ceremony was held at the Crown Plaza in Cherry Hill, NJ and welcomed nearly 300 new Fourth Degree Knights. All told, more than 600 Sir Knights and Ladies attended the event.

Fewer than 18 percent of all Knights join the Fourth Degree, which is optional, and whose members are referred to as “Sir Knight.” Wives of Sir Knights are referred to as “Ladies.”

The most notable members of the Fourth Degree, the Color Corps, is an elective membership. Their distinctive presence in parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, confirmations and other Catholic functions is a visible reminder of the Fourth Degree’s service to the community.

The Color Corps enters the gala.

It was a packed house of nearly 600 with just shy of 300 new candidates.

The dais was full of dignitaries.

At the gala a table is kept empty for all men and women who gave their lives in service to their country.

An excellent selfie by SK Neal Cullen and Lady Melissa.

Lady Maryanne and SK Ed Welsh.

Lady Jennifer ejoys the gala dinner with her husband SK Mike Walsh and SK Jim Cosgrove.

Lady Lisa and SK George Hayes, our insurance field agent.

The Fourth Degree certificate.