Qualifications & Requirements For New Postulants
pplicants must be practicing and exemplary Christians, active in their
church, and/or works of charity. They must be dedicated and ready to
help those in need; the sick, the orphaned, the old, and the infirm.
They must serve and support the Order in its many works of charity,
such as visiting hospitals, homes for the aged, blood donor clinics,
and are to attend meetings, ceremonies, and functions as organized by
the Order or the Priory/Grand Priory they are assigned to.
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Applicants must state their religion and denomination, as well as the name of their church, location, and Pastor's name (if applicable). |
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The minimum age for Applicants of Knighthood is 21. Applicants who are 17-20 years old will be classified as Serving Brothers or Sisters, and may be elevated to a higher rank at the appropriate age, depending on how well they serve. |
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Applicants must submit their Curriculum Vitae, date and place of birth for themselves, as well as their spouse, name and religion of their spouse (if applicable), and 2 recent Passport size photos signed on the back by the Applicant. |
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Applicants must read the Solemn Vows, and fully understand their meaning. The Vows are to be signed and witnessed in the presence of a Pastor, or Knight/Dame of the Order. |
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If of Noble birth or blood, proof of Nobility is to be presented at the time the application is submitted, together with the Coat of Arms, and a notarized copy of applicable documents of the family history. Claims not submitted at the time of application will not be honoured. |
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The Postulancy period normally required of the Applicant is 12 months, in order to provide the opportunity for assessment. In certain circumstances, this may be waived at the discretion of the Prior/Grand Prior and the Grand Chancellor, with the final approval of the Grand Master of not less than 6 months. |
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A letter is required from the Applicant to the Sponsor and the Prior/Grand Prior stating why he/she believes they should be considered for membership. The Applicant must state their commitment and potential contributions to the Order. Only after receiving this letter will the Applicant proceed through the selection process. The Sponsor is committed to guide the Applicant in his/her duties for 1 year. |
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All required documents must be submitted to the Sponsor, who will in turn forward them together with his own recommendation to the Prior/Grand Prior. Sponsors are responsible to ensure that the Applicant is aware of the history and activities of the Order, his/her duties, responsibilities, and that all documents submitted are completed correctly. |
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The Passage Fee for Knighthood will cover registration in the International Social Register, Chancery Fees, Regalia, as well as the Annual Oblation for the current year. All Members are obliged to pay an Annual Oblation, however, any additional donations are encouraged (Fees are subject to change. Tax receipts will not be issued for Oblations or Passage Fees). Decorations, Mantle, Diploma, I.D. Cards, etc. will be issued. |
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Non-Christians may be honoured with the Cross or Certificate of Merit if they are benefactors of the Order, or are recommended for outstanding contributions that benefit humanity. |
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The accoutrements of the Order, including the Neck Decoration, Mantle, as well as all other property, including books and documents, remain the property of the Knights Hospitallers of the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta, The Ecumenical Order. They are on issue to the Knight or Dame as a tangible symbol of their service to the Order, and must be returned upon request. |