Protocol with Pride

By National Directors Michele Bowman and Irene Gramza State Officer Conference, July 15-17, 2021

IN THE BEGINNING… Since the beginning Catholic Daughters has been

proud of our ceremony, protocol and ritual.

We were founded on ceremony and order when guided by Knights of Columbus in the early years.

There was much ceremony, secrecy and special passwords.

Though we have changed and simplified many of these, there are still certain ceremonies and protocols we need to observe.

WHY IS CEREMONY IMPORTANT ?

It distinguishes us from other women’s groups.

It unifies us when we do certain ceremonies the same way, following the same guidelines.

Ceremony adds a certain dignity to any occasion.

WHEN DO WE FOLLOW CEREMONY?

At our meetings every month (we often sing our opening and closing odes, say a prayer and salute the flag) Mary, our patroness, should also be present. We always show respect for the flag. It should be present at all

meetings and special ceremonies. We are patriotic and support our troops. (wearing red on

Friday) When new courts are instituted at any level. Installation of officers whether local, state or National. Masses for deceased members. Other special occasions.

WHERE DO OUR CEREMONIES TAKE PLACE? Ceremonies can be in a variety of locations.

No matter where, uniform guidelines should be followed.

Common places for ceremonies might include:

regular meeting rooms (often referred to as court room style)

our parish churches

hotel conference rooms

huge cathedrals

maybe in a member’s home, backyard or driveway

How about this for a formal ceremony! Ceremonies come in all shapes and sizes.

GUIDELINES TO CARRY OUT CEREMONIES Follow guidelines set forth in Tools of the Trade so there is

consistency within the Order and with all courts.

Always show dignity and respect with any dress code.

White is often used for ceremonials.

Planning and communication are important between leaders and members prior to any ceremony.

Ceremonial robes have been with us since the beginning. Even though they have changed over time, they are still an important tradition.

A FEW MAJOR CHANGES OVER TIME

Number of offices or positions.

At one time there were twelve (12) local officers.

Until the mid 1980’s motor board hats and gloves were worn with the traditional robes.

Robe colors and styles have been tweaked over the years.

Note Mortar Board Hats.

We Graduated and lost these hats in the late 1980’s. They were not good for the hair!

List of officers from 1975 Court St. John Vianney. What a difference from today. 12 officers at this time

BASIC CEREMONIAL ROBE GUIDELINES Robes should be eleven inches from the floor with whatever shoes are

worn.

Shoes should be white, preferably closed toed. No flip flops.

Absolutely no slacks or shorts. Dresses need to be shorter than robe.

Small earrings only, no large hoops etc. Rings and watches ok.

No handbags or cameras should be carried.

No veil or head covering to be worn.

Stockings are optional but only nude or skin tone please. (no navy, black or white stockings)

What is wrong with this picture??

Do you see any problem with protocol here?

Problems here?? Did someone forget to measure?

This is a good -looking group! Great job ladies! We can all learn from your example.

BANNER BEARERS AND COLOR GUARD White dress, white shoes and white gloves will be worn by

the color guard, flag bearer and banner bearers. Red, white and blue shoulder ribbons or sashes will be worn

by the Color Guard but not the flag bearer. Ribbons are worn left shoulder to right hip with red facing

the neck. Three Banner Bearers are ideal, but one person could carry

the banner. Color Guards, Banner Bearers and Guides serve at the

opening and closing of conventions, at all ceremonials and other special occasions.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER Please follow Tools of the Trade and National recommended guidelines. Arrange for a ceremonial coordinator when necessary. Keep in mind the order of entrance and closing processions. Refer to

ceremonial guidelines in Tools of the Trade. Cross and Candle Bearers, Color Guard and Banner Bearer always lead. Clergy are the last in and out. Other officers enter from lowest officer to highest. For Closing Procession officers exit highest to lowest. Any officer in the processional should be robed. Be flexible when necessary (things happen) but always be respectful of

guidelines and clergy. Be proud of our wonderful organization and what we represent !! Potential members may be watching.

ALWAYS STOP AND SMELL THE FLOWERS