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.
