The Order is awarded on the basis of merit, as determined by the Grandmaster of the Order. Membership in the Order is never sold, and cannot be purchased. Usually, members are considered only after nomination by one who is presently a Companion of the Order; on occasion, those who propose themselves as Companions will be considered for acceptance, but only careful evaluation of their background, achievements, and character.

Knights may be further organized into Priories and Commandries, with the head of such subdivisions appointed at the pleasure of the Grandmaster.

Truth: The foundation of virtue. One who seeks out the truth within him or her self will surely develop other Knightly virtues, such as justice, courage, strength, and humility. Without truth, there is no light, but rather the spiritual darkness of self delusion and self deception, which must surely lead to other vices.

Honor: The standard against which we measure ourselves, and are measured by others. It is a treasure which if kept grows in value and grandeur; but once squandered can but rarely be regained, and only at great cost in time and effort. The Knight's word must be more certain and sure than any written contract. And let every Knight consider carefully before making any Oath, and never do so lightly or without due reflection; but rather let every Knight strive to fulfill every Oath undertaken or stand bereft of honor.

Justice: Since time immemorial, the Knight's duty has been to protect the innocent from harm and to punish the guilty, as is symbolized by the sword. In past times, fulfillment of this duty often required physical combat; today, the battles are fought differently but are no less important. In all areas of life, the Knight must strive so far as possible to fight injustice and help the right prevail.

Charity: Also known as largesse. A Knight will seek to aid those in need, giving succor and assistance to such as may need it, giving as his or her means permit, and without ostentation or display. True charity encompasses more than the material; a word of encouragement can mean more than gold, and a friendly ear more than jewels. The spirit of Charity may cause the Knight to forgive a wrong done himself, if the act is truly repented. Charity will help the Knight to avoid the errors of gluttony and avarice.

Loyalty: The brother of Honor. When once a Knight has made a commitment, let him or her not waiver or withdraw. But, realizing that a Knight does not compromise his or her loyalty, let no such commitment be lightly made.

Courage: The Knight is charged with the duty of fighting for the right and good, and is thus destined to face many opponents. The battles may be of the body, and the dangers faced by the Knight may be physical; but courage is as greatly in demand with the more subtle opponent of the mind or spirit. Whichever circumstances the Knight enters, he or she must always face the enemy with valor.

Nobility: A man may be ennobled by a Prince; but a soul can thus be elevated only by living according to standards higher than those of the common man. To achieve the Chivalrous ideal is not possible; but the very striving uplifts the spirit and purifies the soul, and marks the true Knight.

Humility: The Knight who looks upon his or her life without evasion or self-deception, and exercises the virtue of Truth, will surely be humbled by the vast gulf that lies between the Chivalrous Ideal and the reality of what is. Thus chastened, the Knight will surely avoid the error of pride!

Excellence: The Knight strives always to do and be their best , no matter what the area of endeavor. They do so not for pride's sake, but rather to infuse even the must mundane task with nobility, and thus uplift themselves.

Faith: The Knight must be true to that which he or she believes in above all else, for with faith comes strength against every adversity and reverse. Faith is the lifeblood of Courage and Nobility; without it, life has no meaning. With faith, no force, not even death, can defeat the Knight.

This page last updated July 7, 2003 3:46 PM