Religiously Devoted, Patriotically Proud
A Man’s Country is Not a Certain Area of Land, of Mountains, of Rivers, or Woods, but it is a principle.
Patriotism is Loyalty to that Principle.
The life of a Sir Knight is meant to exemplify the truest sense of that Principle.
Members of the Knights of Columbus, be they Americans, Canadians, Mexicans, Cubans, Filipinos, Poles, or Dominicans, are patriotic citizens. We are proud of our devotion to God and country; we believe in standing up for both as a joy-filled duty. Whether it’s in public or private, Sir Knights remind the world that Catholics support their nations and are among the most loyal citizens.
Passing the Sword:
Iowa Fourth Degree Welcomes New District Master
Kevin McKinney
District Master 2024 - 2026
Steven Vonnahme, PSD
New District Master 2026
A new chapter in the history of the Iowa Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree begins as Past State Deputy Steven Vonnahme, is appointed the new District Master for the Father Padilla Province, covering the state of Iowa. A dedicated member of Council 13109 in Altoona and Fourth Degree Assembly 3379, Vonnahme succeeds outgoing District Master Kevin McKinney (2024–2026).
"The Fourth Degree is often referred to as the Patriotic Degree," Vonnahme said following his appointment. "Our mission is to stand firm as Catholic citizens, serving our Church, our country, and our Order with unwavering honor and loyalty."
As District Master, Vonnahme will oversee the 47 assemblies within the province, leading Fourth Degree exemplifications, guiding assembly leadership, and strengthening the spiritual and civic presence of the Sir Knights throughout Iowa.
Pictured above at a Fourth Degree exemplification in Storm Lake, IA on August 29, 2026, outgoing District Master Kevin McKinney (left) stands alongside incoming District Master Steven Vonnahme (right) as they prepare for the upcoming leadership transition.
Upcoming Exemplifications
Show your love for your Church and Country by becoming a Sir Knight through membership in the Fourth Degree
If you are interested in hosting an Exemplification, please send email to district.master@iowakofc.org. You can also request to join one of the Diocesan Degree Teams by emailing the Master. Church Lecturers and Cantors are welcome. Qualified volunteers must already be a Fourth-Degree member and have the new Uniform.
If you are interested in joining or current members wishing to be refreshed on the role of Catholics in Patriotism and founding of our Country, please plan on attending an Exemplification near you.
What is the Fourth Degree?
HISTORY AND ORGANIZATION
On February 22, 1900, the first Fourth Degree exemplification or degree ceremony was held in New York City. Local units, called assemblies, draw their members from Knights of Columbus councils. The first Iowa assembly to be instituted was Loras Assembly located in Davenport, Iowa in November 1902. Presently there are a total of 47 assemblies in the Father Padilla Province, Iowa District. Qualification for membership in the Fourth Degree is to be a Third Degree Knight in good standing.
STANDING FIRM IN SUPPORT OF THE ORDER
The primary purpose of this degree is to foster the spirit of patriotism in members and the community at large and to encourage active Catholic citizenship. Knights of the Patriotic Degree are dedicated to the personal development and continued honor of brother Knights. We are there to offer leadership, guidance, and encouragement to our brother Knights and to fellow Catholics.
PROUDLY SERVING THE COUNTRY
The Fourth Degree imparts a lesson on the virtue of patriotism. Knights of the Patriotic Degree glorify God by serving our communities and nations as though Christ were the one being served.
UNWAVERING SUPPORT OF THE FAITH
Knights of the Patriotic Degree are dedicated to the service of their Church, their country and our Order. These men are unified in the Fourth Degree to support religious, civic and charitable causes. Most importantly Sir Knights hold unwaveringly to what is right and honorable, working to keep God in the civic arena, serving the life of the Church, and defending laws that recognize the sanctity of life and true religious liberty.
HONORING THE LEGACY OF KNIGHTHOOD
The Color Corps is an elective division of the Patriotic Degree that presents a visible reminder of our service to the community. These members regularly take part in civic events such as parades and wreath-laying ceremonies, and at ecclesial functions of Catholic churches.