knights of columbus secret handshake

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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26-02-2025

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The Knights of Columbus: Unveiling the Mystery (and Misconceptions) of Their Handshake

The Knights of Columbus (KofC), a Catholic fraternal order, is often shrouded in a degree of mystery, particularly surrounding its rituals and traditions. One element that frequently sparks curiosity is the Knights of Columbus secret handshake. This article delves into the reality of this handshake, separating fact from fiction and exploring its significance within the order.

What is the KofC Handshake?

Contrary to popular belief, there isn't one single, universally recognized "secret" handshake used by all Knights. The truth is more nuanced. While specific handshakes or grips are part of the initiation and advancement rituals within the KofC, they are not truly secret. Members learn these grips as part of their membership journey. The importance lies not in the secrecy of the gesture itself but rather in its symbolic meaning and its role in recognizing fellow Knights.

The Significance of the Handshake

The handshakes used within the Knights of Columbus serve several vital purposes:

• Fraternal Recognition: The primary function is to allow Knights to identify one another discreetly. This is especially important in situations where members might wish to connect with fellow Knights without drawing undue attention.

• Bonding and Camaraderie: The shared experience of learning and practicing these grips strengthens the bond between members. It contributes to the feeling of belonging and shared identity that defines the KofC.

• Ritual and Tradition: The handshakes are deeply interwoven into the initiation and advancement ceremonies. These rituals are a significant part of the KofC experience, fostering a sense of history and tradition within the order.

• Not a "Secret" in the True Sense: It's crucial to emphasize that while these grips are not publicly shared, they are not clandestine in the sense of being unknown. Members are taught them openly during their progression through the order.

Debunking Myths and Misconceptions:

Several myths and misconceptions surround the Knights of Columbus handshake. Let's address some of the most common ones:

• Myth 1: There's a single, universally known secret handshake: False. Different degrees and levels of membership may utilize different grips. There's no single, all-encompassing "secret" handshake.

• Myth 2: The handshake is used for nefarious purposes: False. The handshakes are solely for internal recognition and strengthening fraternal bonds. There is no secret society agenda or hidden meaning beyond fellowship and Catholic faith.

• Myth 3: Knowing the handshake grants access to secret information: False. The handshakes are merely a symbol of membership and are not keys to unlocking privileged knowledge or power.

Conclusion:

The Knights of Columbus handshake is a symbol of fraternity, tradition, and shared faith. While the specific grips might not be publicly known, they are not "secret" in the way that some might imagine. The real significance lies in the ritual, the shared experience, and the strengthened bonds they foster among the members. Understanding the true nature of these gestures helps clarify misconceptions and appreciate the rich traditions of the Knights of Columbus. Their focus remains on charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism, not on hidden agendas or secretive practices.