Did you know joining the Knights Templar costs just $65? This Christian group has a long history. It now invites people like you to join and carry on its mission.
If you believe in Christianity and want to be a true Knight or Dame, you’re welcome. Even if you’re under 18, you can start as a “Squire”. The Knights Templar is open to everyone who’s interested.
Key Takeaways
- The Knights Templar is a Christian order with a rich medieval history.
- Modern organizations like OMSDT-USA and Knights Templars of Albion allow individuals to join and continue the Templar legacy.
- Membership is open to both men and women who are Professing Christians with the virtues of a true Knight or Dame.
- The suggested initial donation for joining is $65, with an annual donation of $50 thereafter.
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old, or they can join as “Squires” if under 18.
Introduction to Modern Knights Templar Organizations
The Knights Templar’s history is fascinating and inspiring. Even though the original Templar order ended in the 14th century, new groups keep their spirit alive. In the USA, the Order of the Militia of Saint John the Divine (OMSDT-USA) and the Knights Templars of Albion work hard. They focus on Christian friendship, helping others, and growing personally.
Historical Legacy and Modern Purpose
Today’s Templar groups are not linked to Freemasonry or politics. They are Christian brotherhoods and knightly orders. They aim to help people grow spiritually, serve the community, and learn noble values. Both men and women can join, aiming to become knights and help others.
The Call for Contemporary Knights
Our world often misses the honor and duty of the old Templars. Modern Templar orders want to inspire a new group of “knights.” They aim to live by faith, charity, and chivalry. Their goal is to create a community for those who want to make a difference.
Overview of Current Templar Orders
Though different, today’s Templar groups share a common goal. They aim to keep the Templar spirit alive today. They offer learning, community service, and personal growth. This way, they make the Templar ideals meaningful for today’s world.
“The Knights Templar of North America® is a non-profit organization that raises funds for established charities, relief groups, and philanthropic endeavors.”
The Sacred Foundations of Templar Knighthood
The Knights Templar had a deep spiritual calling. They were not just warriors. They were a mix of spiritual ideals and action.
They lived by Spiritual Chivalry. They served God and people with honor and peace.
Their beliefs were strong. Templars looked for inner peace and worked in the world. They balanced the spiritual and the real.
The Templars protected Christian pilgrims during the Crusades. But they did more than fight. They were on a mission to show honor and light in a dark world.
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This made them stand out. Their commitment to growing spiritually and doing good was key.
| Templar Principles | Significance |
|---|---|
| Seeking Inner Peace | Templar knights found calm within. They valued quiet thought and spiritual growth. |
| Expressing Virtues in Daily Life | They lived honor, courage, and kindness every day. This was true in battle and in life. |
| Aligning with Universal Spiritual Laws | They tried to match their lives with the divine. They followed timeless spiritual rules. |
The Knights Templar’s legacy inspires many. Their mix of discipline and mysticism is a guide. It shows the way to knights templar history and knights templar symbolism.
“The Templars were not merely soldiers, but spiritual warriors, dedicated to the pursuit of inner peace and righteous action.”
Essential Requirements for Membership
If you want to join the Knights Templar OMSDT-USA, you need to meet some key requirements. First, you must be at least 18 years old to be a full member. Kids as young as 16 can join as “Companions-at-Arms” with a parent’s help.
The Knights Templar are a Christian group. So, you must believe in Christianity deeply. You’ll need to agree with the Apostles’, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds. Also, your priest or pastor must confirm your Christian beliefs.
Being a good person and having some education is important too. You don’t need a lot of school, but you should like history, spirituality, and helping others. The Knights Templar also check your background to make sure you’re a good person.
Check out the Knights Templar membershipand see how you can join this respected group.
Age and Personal Background Requirements
- Eligible for full membership: 18 years of age and older
- Junior membership: 16 years of age or older with a parent in the Order
- Probationary period as a Companion-at-Arms: 6 to 12 months before full admission
Religious and Faith Prerequisites
- Adherence to the Apostles’, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds
- Christian faith background (Catholic, Protestant, or Orthodox)
- Affirmation from priest or pastor regarding Christian commitment
Character and Educational Qualifications
While there are no strict educational requirements, the Knights Templar value:
- Interest in history, spirituality, and service
- Clean criminal record and history of upstanding character
- Completion of background checks as part of the application process
| Membership Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18 years or older for full membership, 16 years or older with parent sponsorship for junior membership |
| Faith | Adherence to Apostles’, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds, Christian faith background (Catholic, Protestant, or Orthodox) |
| Character | Clean criminal record, history of upstanding character, background checks |
| Education | No strict educational requirements, but interest in history, spirituality, and service is valued |
“The Knights Templar uphold high standards of membership, ensuring that only those truly committed to the organization’s principles are welcomed into the fold.”
How To Become A Knights Templar
Want to join the Knights Templar? It’s a chance to be part of a legendary group. You’ll carry on their great legacy of honor and service. To become a member, you need to go through a few important steps.
First, look for a good modern group like the Order of Malta or the Order of the Temple. These groups keep the Templar spirit alive today.
- Apply to the group you like, sharing your personal info.
- Have an interview to see if you fit with the group’s values.
- Pay any fees, like joining costs and yearly dues, which are $700 to $1,000.
- Do an Apostles program to learn about Templar history and duties.
- Pass a background check to make sure you’re a good fit.
Joining the Knights Templar takes hard work, dedication, and respect for their traditions. By following these steps, you can become a part of this noble group.
| Membership Statistics | Details |
|---|---|
| Commanderies in the U.S. | Almost 1,600 |
| Indiana Grand Commandery Membership | Approximately 7,000 |
| Total Knights Templar Members | Over 260,000 |
“The power and influence of the Knights Templar declined in the mid-12th century due to factors such as the growing unity in the Muslim world and increasing concerns from other orders.”
The Knights Templar today is different from the old Templars. But they keep the same values of honor, service, and faith. Joining means you’ll be part of a worldwide community that values the Templar legacy.
The Application and Selection Process
Joining a modern Knights Templar order is a detailed process. You need to provide documents and pass background checks. This shows you’re right for the Templar way.
Documentation and Background Checks
First, you fill out a detailed form with your info and maybe a photo. Some groups ask for proof of past knightly or Templar work. They check your background to make sure you’re a good fit.
Interview and Assessment Procedures
Then, you might get an interview. This lets the Templar group check if you really get what they’re about. They look at your leadership, how you talk, and if you’re a good match.
Sponsorship Requirements
Some groups need you to have a sponsor. This is someone who knows you and thinks you’re ready to join. Your sponsor helps you through the steps to join.
The whole process makes sure only the right people join. It’s about being truly committed to the Templar values.
Financial Commitments and Membership Fees
Joining the Knights Templar has costs, but the benefits are great. The first step is a $65 donation. This gets you a Neck Cross, Certificate, and postage.
After that, you pay $25 each year. This helps cover the Order’s expenses.
New Knights also buy regalia for about $150. Becoming a member can take two months. You can’t join if you have a felony.
You must be 18, a Christian, and have good morals. You also need a basic education. The Order is open about its money matters.
Other groups claiming Templar ties often ask for a lot of money. They might only want rich people. But the real Knights Templar lived simply.
| Membership Type | Initial Donation | Annual Donation |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Membership | $65 | $25 |
| Couples Membership | $65 per person | $25 per person |
| Family Membership | $65 per person | $25 per person |
| Junior Membership | N/A | $30 |
The costs for knights templar membership can change. Always check the details of each group before joining.
The Initiation Ceremony and Investiture
Becoming a Knight Templar is a special and sacred process. It shows the order’s rich history and traditions. The knights templar initiation ceremony is filled with symbols and serious duties.
Ceremonial Traditions
The knights templar rituals in the initiation vary by group. But they often share common themes. Candidates may go on a seven-year journey of faith. Then, they do a year of penance before getting the Casual Sign and Grand Password.
The ceremony is full of tradition. New knights or dames wear special clothes. They have a white tunic, a red Latin cross, and more.
Symbolic Elements and Meanings
The knights templar symbolism in the ceremony is very important. It shows the order’s main values. Swords, shields, and religious symbols are used to welcome new members. They get titles like “Sir” or “Dame” and the “KT” (Knights Templar) post-nominal.
The ceremony also includes parts from the York Rite Commandery. This includes the Order of the Red Cross and others. The Scottish Rite’s 18th degree, the Rose Croix, adds to the knights templar rituals.
Post-Investiture Responsibilities
After the ceremony, new Knights Templar have big responsibilities. They must follow the order’s values and take part in its activities. They also help with charity work and live by the chivalric and religious codes of the Knights Templar.
The link between Freemasonry and the Knights Templar adds to the mystery. It makes people more interested in the knights templar initiation and the order’s lasting legacy.
Knights Templar Code of Conduct
The Knights Templar Code of Conduct is all about service, truth, justice, and equality. Templars live by high moral standards. They show kindness and care in everything they do.
They promise to follow the law and not misuse power. They aim to do good and face the bad in society.
Templars must show virtues like understanding, tolerance, and love every day. They do this without caring about race, religion, or social status. This is the heart of the knights templar code of conduct.
The first version of “The Rule of the Templars” had 68 rules in 1129. As the Templars grew, so did their rules. By 2015, Grand Master Prince Matthew of Thebes restored the code. It focuses on chivalry and being morally excellent.
| Key Tenets of the Knights Templar Code of Conduct |
|---|
|
The knights templar code of conduct comes from medieval Europe’s chivalry. But its values of leadership and service are just as important today. Templars aim to make a difference and inspire others.
“The Templar Code was not just a set of rules – it was a way of life, a calling to the highest ideals of chivalry and moral excellence.” – Grand Master Prince Matthew of Thebes
Training and Development Within the Order
Becoming a Knights Templar is more than just wearing a special white mantle. It’s a journey of spiritual growth and learning to lead. Templar groups have special programs to help new members grow.
Spiritual Growth Programs
Templar knighthood is all about faith and spiritual growth. Many groups offer programs for this. The Apostles Program teaches new knights about Templar history and faith.
Members also join prayer groups and study religious texts. They help others through charity work. This helps them live the Templar values of faith, humility, and service.
Leadership Development
Templar orders also focus on making good leaders. They offer training and mentorship. Knights learn to make decisions, organize, and communicate well.
They might lead community events or service projects. Or they might take on leadership roles in the order. This lets them apply Templar values and help the organization grow.
The aim is to blend spiritual and practical skills. This way, Templar knights can carry on the order’s legacy and make a difference.
| Templar Training and Development | Description |
|---|---|
| Spiritual Growth Programs |
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| Leadership Development |
|
Ranks and Advancement Opportunities
The Knights Templar have a clear path for members to grow. They start as Brothers or Sisters and can become Apostles. Then, they can become Knights or Dames, each with special roles.
Members who show they care and help out can get higher jobs. These jobs show the Order trusts them. Some Templar groups even value experience from other Templars.
Getting to the next rank is not just about time. It’s about how much you learn, lead, and follow the Order’s values. You must finish certain programs and show you know the Order’s teachings.
Ranks and Advancement Timeline
- Companion-At-Arms (CAA): 18 years old with 6-month probation period, $65 application fee
- Sergeant (SGT): Finish Templar Academy of America Sergeants Training, be CAA for 6 months
- Staff Sergeant (SSG), Sergeant 1st Class (SFC), First Sergeant (1SG), Master Sergeant (MSG), Sergeant Major (SGM), Command Sergeant Major (CSM)
- Knight (KT): Be Sergeant for 6 months, wear white mantle with red cross
- Knight Lieutenant (KLT): Officer with more duties
- Knight-Captain (KCP): More duties in the Priory
- Knight Major (KMJ): Proven officers with more duties
- Commandant (COM): Lead a Commandery of about 5 Templars
- Master Commandant (MCOM): Lead a Commandery of about 6, shows great leadership
- Prior (PR): Manage a group of about 20 members
- Provost (PVST): Retired Prior for national tasks
The Knight Grand Cross (GCTJ) is the top rank. It’s for those who have shown great dedication and success in the Knights Templar.
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Embrace the opportunity to become a part of the noble legacy of the Knights Templar.”
Active Participation and Service Requirements
Being a member of the Knights Templar means you must be active and serve. You need to join in on the group’s activities. This includes going to meetings, taking part in rituals, and helping with charity work.
How much you do can change. It depends on your rank and how much you want to help. Some Templars help persecuted Christians, just like the old Templars did.
- Attend regular meetings and ceremonies
- Contribute to the order’s charitable works and community outreach
- Participate in educational initiatives and training programs
- Uphold the Templar’s code of conduct and principles
The Templar Skills Training program is huge. It has over 2,700 pages of learning materials. This helps members get the skills they need for their knights templar service.
“The essential qualifications and merits of a Templar include ‘studious purification’ by learning, and an emphasis on studying universally and applying understanding in service.”
Knights Templar members show they care by doing their part. They help keep the order’s values alive and make a difference.
Conclusion
To become a Knights Templar today, you need to join a good group. You must know the history and follow the values. You also need to help others and act with honor.
The steps to join might change, but the main idea stays the same. It’s about mixing spiritual beliefs with real actions today.
If you want to join a Knights Templar group or just learn about them, you’re on a special path. It’s about respect, hard work, and sticking to old values. This way, you can help make a big difference in the world.
Thinking about becoming a Templar? There are many groups to choose from. Look into their rules and traditions. Pick the one that fits your dreams and values.
With the right attitude and effort, your Templar journey will change you. It will also help others in big ways.
FAQ
What is the history and purpose of modern Knights Templar organizations?
Modern Knights Templar groups, like OMSDT-USA and Knights Templars of Albion, honor the old order’s legacy. They adapt to today’s needs. These groups are Christian, focusing on friendship, spiritual growth, and helping others. They are not linked to Freemasonry or politics.
What are the core principles and spiritual foundations of Templar knighthood?
Templar Spirituality mixes spiritual goals with real-world actions. It’s about living a spiritual life while being active in the world. Templars aim to unite spiritual and material life, serving God and people.
What are the typical requirements for becoming a member of a Knights Templar order?
To join, you must be 18+, believe in Christianity, and be of good character. Some groups ask for a personal story or background check.
How does one go about becoming a Knights Templar?
First, find a reputable group like OMSDT-USA or Knights Templars of Albion. Then, apply with your details and show you share their values. Some groups have a program for newbies to learn before becoming a knight.
What is the application and selection process for joining a Knights Templar order?
You’ll fill out a form and share personal info. Some groups might ask for a photo or past Templar experience. Interviews and assessments check if you really want to join.
What are the financial commitments for Knights Templar membership?
You’ll pay a joining fee and annual dues. For example, Knights Templars of Albion has different fees. Some fees help charities.
What happens during the initiation ceremony and investiture?
The initiation and investiture are big moments. They include ceremonies that show the order’s history and values. You’ll get titles like “Sir” or “Dame” and the “KT” post-nominal.
What is the Knights Templar Code of Conduct?
The Code of Conduct is about service, truth, justice, and equality. Members must live morally, be kind, and follow laws. It’s about doing good and facing challenges.
What kind of training and development opportunities are available within Knights Templar orders?
Training focuses on spiritual growth and leadership. Programs like the Apostles Program teach Templar history. Spiritual growth comes from studying, prayer, and charity. Leadership skills are developed through roles and community service.
What are the different ranks and advancement opportunities within Knights Templar orders?
Orders have ranks like Brother or Sister, Apostle, Knight, or Dame. Advancement needs commitment, activity, and training. Officer or ambassador roles are for higher ranks.
What are the active participation and service requirements for Knights Templar members?
Members must be active and serve. This includes meetings, ceremonies, and charity work. Orders help persecuted Christians. Service includes charity, outreach, and education.
