Knights Templar Commandery
Faith, Courage, and Christian Service
The Commandery of Knights Templar forms the Christian culmination of the York Rite journey. Through its Orders, the candidate is challenged to live with courage, charity, honor, sacrifice, and an active faith expressed through service to others.
The Christian Orders of the York Rite
A Call to Live the Principles of Christian Knighthood
The Knights Templar Commandery offers a series of Orders that draw upon Biblical history, Christian tradition, and the ideals of chivalric service.
These Orders are not about military rank or social prestige. They are intended to strengthen faith, deepen moral responsibility, and encourage each Sir Knight to serve God and humanity with humility and courage.
The true measure of a knight is not the title he bears, but the faith he lives and the service he gives.
The Virtues of Christian Knighthood
Principles Intended to Be Practiced
The Orders of the Commandery
Three Distinct Experiences Within One Christian Journey
Each Order contributes a different lesson concerning duty, faith, sacrifice, and the responsibilities of a Christian Mason.
Order of the Red Cross
The Order of the Red Cross presents a lesson in truth, fidelity, courage, and the defense of principle in the face of pressure.
It draws upon events connected with the rebuilding of the Temple and emphasizes that truth is greater than worldly power or reward.
Preparatory OrderOrder of Malta
The Order of Malta is distinctly Christian and reflects upon faith, humility, spiritual discipline, and the willingness to serve.
It reminds the candidate that Christian knighthood is grounded in devotion, charity, self-control, and obedience to conscience.
Christian OrderOrder of the Temple
The Order of the Temple is the culminating experience of the Commandery and one of the most solemn and impressive ceremonies in the York Rite.
It presents lessons of faith, sacrifice, redemption, courage, and the hope of eternal life.
Culminating OrderAn Important Qualification
The Commandery Is Expressly Christian
Unlike the Royal Arch Chapter and Cryptic Council, the final Orders of the Commandery require a profession of Christian faith.
The Commandery welcomes qualified York Rite Masons who sincerely desire to explore the ideals of Christian knighthood and apply those teachings in their daily lives.
- Faith expressed through conduct
- Charity expressed through service
- Courage guided by conscience
- Leadership practiced with humility
- Brotherhood strengthened by shared devotion
Beyond the Orders
Service Is the Work of a Sir Knight
Commandery membership offers opportunities to put Christian and Masonic principles into action through fellowship, charitable work, public observances, leadership, and support for others.
Christian Charity
Support those in need through personal compassion, community service, and charitable programs.
Leadership
Develop the discipline, confidence, and responsibility needed to lead with humility and integrity.
Fellowship
Build enduring friendships with Sir Knights who share a commitment to faith, honor, and service.
Witness
Demonstrate Christian values through conduct rather than words alone.
Take Up the Work of Christian Knighthood
Continue Your York Rite Journey
If you are a qualified York Rite Mason and a professing Christian seeking deeper faith, meaningful fellowship, and opportunities for service, the Commandery invites you to learn more.