How To Join The Templars: The Complete Guide To Modern Orders And Historical Lineage
Joining the Templars requires navigating a complex landscape of modern chivalric orders, historical preservation societies, and self-styled successor organizations that trace their roots back to the medieval Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon. Aspiring candidates must differentiate between recognized chivalric traditions, genealogical credentials, and philanthropic commitments to successfully petition a legitimate modern order.
Understanding the Modern Chivalric Landscape and Prerequisites
The original Poor Law of the Temple was dissolved by Pope Clement V in 1312 via the papal bull Vox in Excelso. Consequently, any contemporary organization claiming direct institutional continuity from the medieval Knights Templar operates outside the formal structure of the Catholic Church, though many function as independent private associations, non-profits, or legally recognized chivalric orders under international heraldic law. Prospective members must understand that joining a legitimate modern order involves rigorous background checks, a demonstrated commitment to charitable works, and adherence to specific religious or ethical codes.
Candidates must prepare for an investigative vetting process similar to traditional Freemasonry or historical preservation societies. Most respected orders require proof of clean legal standing, letters of recommendation from existing members or community leaders, and an alignment with Christian values or Western philosophical traditions.
- Essential Preparation and Documentation Checklist:
- Personal Documentation: Certified copy of birth certificate, comprehensive background check or police clearance, and a detailed curriculum vitae highlighting community service.
- Sponsorship Requirements: Two to three letters of endorsement from current members or established civic leaders in good standing.
- Financial Commitment: Estimated budget ranging from $300 to $1,500 annually, covering application fees, background checks, mandatory charitable contributions, and regalia.
- Time Investment: Availability for monthly meetings, annual investiture ceremonies, and active participation in local or international philanthropic projects (typically 10 to 20 hours per month).
Step-by-Step Procedure to Petition and Affiliated Orders
Step 1: Research and Verify Order Legitimacy
Before submitting any application, you must verify the historical and legal standing of the specific Templar organization. Investigate whether the order is registered as a recognized non-profit, holds consultative status with international bodies, or is recognized by the International Commission on Orders of Chivalry (ICOC). Avoid organizations that promise nobility titles or unverified historical claims for exorbitant fees.
Warning: Be cautious of internet-based organizations claiming sole authentic authority or offering immediate knighthood upon payment. Legitimate chivalric orders maintain strict vetting procedures and rarely solicit members publicly.
Step 2: Establish Contact and Secure a Sponsor
Reach out to the local priory, commandery, or grand bailiwick of the chosen order through official channels. Attend open educational events, historical lectures, or charity drives hosted by the group to network with existing members. You will typically need to secure a sponsor within the organization who will guide you through the initial inquiry phase and vouch for your character.
Step 3: Submit the Formal Application and Undergo Vetting
Complete the comprehensive membership packet, disclosing all requested biographical, professional, and personal details. The internal grand council or admission committee will review your dossier, conduct background screenings, and evaluate your moral and financial fitness for the order. This stage can take anywhere from three to nine months depending on the administrative schedule of the grand priory.
Step 4: Complete the Novitiate and Investiture Ceremony
Upon acceptance, you enter a probationary novitiate period lasting between six months and one year, during which you study the history, rules, and traditions of the order. Concluding this phase involves participating in a formal investiture ceremony where you take vows of service, receive your mantle and insignia, and officially assume your rank within the brotherhood.
Pro-Tip: Treat the novitiate period as an opportunity to demonstrate reliability by consistently volunteering for the order's charitable initiatives and attending educational seminars.
Were women allowed to join the Templars? - The Templar Knight
Comparison of Modern Templar Affiliations and Structures
| Order Category | Governing Authority | Primary Focus | Typical Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| Masonic Templars | Grand Encampment / Knights Templar (York Rite) | Christian Freemasonry & Charity | Master Mason degree, Christian faith, specific petition |
| Independent Chivalric Orders | Grand Priory / Sovereign Council | Heritage Preservation & Hospitalier Work | Clean background, Christian background, sponsor endorsement |
| Self-Styled / Unverified Groups | Independent Operators | Historical Reenactment & Fellowship | Minimal requirements, often self-funded regalia |
Common Pitfalls in the Application Process and How to Avoid Them
Navigating the petition process for a chivalric order presents unique administrative and cultural hurdles. Understanding these common failure points ensures a smoother application journey.
- Misrepresenting Historical Claims
- Root Cause: Claiming familial lineage or direct descent from medieval Templars without genealogical proof.
- Actionable Fix: Focus your application on personal merit, civic leadership, and charitable dedication rather than unprovable historical bloodlines.
- Financial Default on Dues and Regalia
- Root Cause: Underestimating the costs associated with custom mantles, swords, investiture dinners, and annual dues.
- Actionable Fix: Request a comprehensive fee schedule from the grand chancellor before applying to ensure the financial commitment aligns with your budget.
- Failing the Background Screening
- Root Cause: Undisclosed legal infractions or discrepancies in personal references.
- Actionable Fix: Provide full transparency regarding past legal matters upfront and ensure your sponsors are fully briefed on your background.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone join the modern Knights Templar?
No, membership is selective and restricted to individuals who meet specific moral, financial, and often religious criteria. Most orders require candidates to be of legal age, possess a clean criminal record, and share the Christian faith or traditional Western values upheld by the specific group.
Do I need to be a Freemason to join all Templar groups?
No, while the York Rite Knights Templar branch of Freemasonry requires you to be a Master Mason and profess the Christian religion, independent chivalric orders operate entirely outside of Freemasonry and have separate entry requirements.
Are modern Knights Templar recognized by governments or the Vatican?
The Holy See does not officially recognize any modern chivalric orders styling themselves after the historical Knights Templar, as the original order was suppressed in 1312. However, many modern groups operate legally as registered non-profit corporations, charitable foundations, or private fraternal associations.
What is the cost of joining a legitimate order?
Initial application fees, background checks, mandatory charitable donations, and the purchase of required regalia such as mantles, tunics, and jewels typically range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars, alongside ongoing annual dues.
Can women become members of the modern Templars?
Policies vary significantly by organization. While historical Templar rules excluded women, many modern independent chivalric orders admit women as Dames of the Temple on equal footing with male knights, whereas Masonic branches remain exclusively male.
Begin your journey today by researching accredited grand priories in your region and reaching out to established officers to discuss their philanthropic mission and membership criteria.
