History
The Path to Knighthood & Membership
Read below to learn more about formation as a new Knight and the steps involved:
To those who seek to join the ranks of the Knights Templar in our modern, progressive Order, I extend my warmest welcome. To become a Knight Templar today is to undertake a profound commitment, rooted in both ancient principles and a forward-looking vision for justice, peace, and spiritual growth.
Unlike our medieval forebears, we are no longer bound to physical crusades; our path now is a spiritual and humanitarian one, guided by a commitment to honor, service, and unity. We are tasked with carrying forward a legacy that values inner strength, the quest for truth, and a dedication to the well-being of all people, transcending boundaries of faith, race, and culture.
As Knights, we are called to live by values of compassion, humility, and courage in a world that needs them more than ever. Our mission today is to serve as protectors and advocates—not in the traditional sense of wielding swords, but by standing up against injustice, advocating for the marginalized, and fostering understanding among diverse communities.
We embrace the Templar ideals of defending the vulnerable, but we recognize that modern battles are often ideological, systemic, and humanitarian. Becoming a Knight Templar is to walk this path of service with integrity, finding strength not in power over others but in the power of connection, empathy, and action.
Our Order values spiritual growth, and we encourage each Knight to cultivate a personal connection to the Divine, grounded in both faith and inquiry. This journey is both an inward one of self-knowledge and reflection and an outward one of serving the world.
Each Knight commits to ongoing spiritual and ethical formation, seeking wisdom from both ancient teachings and contemporary insights. We believe that by integrating knowledge from all spiritual traditions and aligning our values with action, we create a force for good that can withstand the tests of time. The heart of Templar knighthood is a balance between contemplation and action, where each fuels and supports the other.
In joining the Knights Templar, you accept a lifelong journey, not merely a title. Our Order is a community that challenges each of us to live authentically, grounded in justice and dedicated to the common good. We invite you to embrace the responsibilities of a Knight with humility, recognizing that this path is a continuous unfolding of who we are called to become in service to others. Together, we strive to embody a spirit of hope and purpose, to uphold the ideals of knighthood in a world that is still in need of defenders, healers, and visionaries.
The journey to becoming a Knight Templar in our Order is one of dedication, reflection, and growth, structured to guide you from initiation through deeper levels of commitment and service. The first step is a period of discernment, where each candidate is invited to reflect on their motives, readiness, and alignment with the values of the Order.
During this phase, prospective knights engage in study sessions, meet with mentors, and participate in introductory ceremonies that allow them to connect with the Order’s mission and understand what it means to embody the Templar principles.
This period of discernment provides both the candidate and the Order with insight, ensuring that each individual enters with a genuine desire to serve and to grow spiritually.
Upon successful completion of the discernment phase, candidates are formally accepted as Novices, marking the beginning of their formation in the Order. This formation period is a time of spiritual study, self-reflection, and training, during which Novices learn the foundational teachings of the Templars, engage in community service, and participate in regular gatherings with fellow members.
Novices are also introduced to the symbols, rituals, and prayers unique to our Order, learning how each element reflects a deeper spiritual truth. As a Novice, you will be encouraged to engage in regular self-assessment and spiritual practices, building a foundation of personal discipline and inner strength. Throughout this time, Novices are supported by mentors who guide them in their journey, helping them to deepen their commitment and understand the responsibilities they are preparing to undertake.
After a period of formation, Novices may advance to the rank of Squire. As Squires, members are given greater responsibilities, both within the Order and in their service to the community.
Squires are expected to demonstrate the principles of knighthood through acts of charity, justice, and compassion, embodying the Templar ideals in both word and deed. Squires continue to study and participate in the life of the Order, with increased opportunities for leadership and mentorship.
This stage represents a deepening of one’s commitment, as Squires take on roles that strengthen the Order’s mission and prepare them for the solemn duty of knighthood. Only those who have shown true devotion and integrity are eligible to advance to the highest rank. Once obtaining the rank of Squire you will receive your official Fons Honorum letters of patent, and you will be issued a personal crest – which you will participate in the creation of.
You are also entitled to all the rights and privileges of this rank, including the use of these post-nominals: s.KT.
The final stage in this journey is the Rite of Knighthood, a formal and sacred ceremony where Squires are knighted and officially receive the title of Knight Templar. This rite is a profound moment, symbolizing the culmination of one’s dedication, growth, and readiness to serve.
As Knights, members commit to a lifelong journey of spiritual growth, service, and leadership within the Order. Knights bear the responsibility of upholding the Templar values at all times, acting as protectors of the vulnerable, advocates for peace, and guardians of spiritual wisdom.
The path to becoming a Knight Templar is one of transformation, forging individuals who not only carry forward the legacy of the Templars but who also stand as pillars of hope and integrity in a world much in need of both. Once attaining the rank of Knight you will be issued the Fons Honorum letters patent authorizing the use of the title “Sir Knight” and the use of the post nominals: K.KT.
Certain individuals who prove themselves to be exemplary models of service, and who demonstrate a deep understanding of the virtues of the Order, shall be invited to become a Knight Grand Cross and may use the post nominals: KGC.KT.
Explore & Learn More…
Learn more about the Order, its history, our lineage, and how to become a member:
GRAND PRIORY
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HISTORY
Click below to learn more about the history of the Poor Knights of Christ and the Templars.
MEMBERSHIP
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OUTREACH MINISTRIES
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START A PRIORY
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