ABOUT KT
About the Order and this Province
History
There are a number of myths around the origins of the Order, with the ‘Moderns’ of craft masonry claiming a link with the medieval Templars, for which there is no definitive proof.
The Order was first worked in England, having probably originated in France, in the eighteenth century. The earliest reference to modern Masonic Knight Templar activity in England can be found in the minutes of the Chapter of Friendship (Royal Arch) in Portsmouth, dated 1778, where it was worked as an Appendant Degree.
The first Grand Conclave was founded in 1791 and, after a period of upheaval, it was refounded as the Great Priory of England and Wales in 1895. This is our governing body today.
Northampton Huntingdon & Bedford Provincial Priory was constituted in 1925, under charter from the Great Priory of England and Wales.
The Provincial Crest features the emblems of these historic towns.
Northampton
Huntingdon
Bedford
Knights Templar and Knights of Malta
There are two specific Degrees in the Order: Knights Templar and Knights of Malta, these being joined by the ‘passing’ Degree of Knight of St Paul.
A candidate for the Knights Templar is in the position of a pilgrim travelling symbolically through hardship and dangers, until he is received as a Knight. The ceremony teaches humility and urges the candidate to live his life as a Christian Knight.
The Knights of Malta concerns the historic period when the Knights left Palestine and eventually reached their final home in Malta, emphasising their Christian virtues.
Knights Templar
Knights of Malta
Regalia
The regalia of the Order is most impressive, being based on that of the medieval Templars. It consists of a tunic, mantle, cap, sash, star, belt, sword and gloves. The Knights of Malta regalia consists of the same elements but is different in design.
The Knights of Malta regalia is not considered obligatory, certainly it is not required initially, and the Province maintains a small supply of used regalia to make entry to the Order easier.
Joining the Order
If you are interested in joining the Order you do not have to wait to be asked, Candidates for installation must simply profess the Christian faith and be both Master Masons and Royal Arch Companions. Speak to someone who is a member or get in touch with Provincial Priory.
KT Regalia
Malta Regalia