The Knights Templar Greater London is a branch of the original international Christian military order, which was historically active during the Middle Ages. Founded in 1119, the order’s mission is to protect and defend Christians, and their sacred sites around the world. The Knights Templar Greater London is part of an international charitable organization that carries on the same mission today. Members of this branch are dedicated to upholding the values of chivalry and duty to God, and to serving those in need. Through their work in international relief efforts, they continue to carry out the original mission of protecting and defending Christians throughout the world. The Knights Templar Greater London is a Masonic Order of the York Rite, which traces its roots back to the original Order of the Knights Templar founded during the Crusades. The original Templars were a religious and military order that was established in 1118 to protect Christian pilgrims in the Holy Land. After their dissolution in 1312, the Order of Knights Templar Greater London was formed and granted a royal charter by King Edward II in 1312. This charter enshrined their right to hold ‘Templar’ meetings and allowed them to meet as a closed lodge for religious and military purposes.
The Order remained an important part of English society until its dissolution by Henry VIII in 1540. The Order continued to exist as an underground society, but it was not until 1791 that it was officially recognised again with the formation of The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). Since then, it has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of England’s most prestigious Masonic Orders. Today, the Knights Templar Greater London is one of nine branches located throughout England and Wales and has lodges throughout Europe and North America.
Formation of the Knights Templar Greater London
The Knights Templar were a monastic military order that was formed during the 12th century in the city of London. The order was founded by Hugues de Payens and Godefroi de Saint-Omer, two French knights who had taken part in the First Crusade in 1099. They established a headquarters in the city and set out to protect pilgrims travelling to and from the Holy Land. The Templars soon grew in power and influence, becoming one of the most powerful organisations in Europe by the 14th century.
The Templars were also active in Greater London, where they had several monasteries and churches. They established their first monastery outside of London at Southwark, on land that is now home to Southwark Cathedral. They also had a priory at Temple Church, where they held their meetings and ceremonies. This church is still standing today and is one of the few surviving Templar sites in England.
The Templars were highly influential in Greater London during their time there, and their presence can still be seen today. Several streets are named after them, including Temple Street, where they once kept their horses, and Fleet Street which was once part of their grazing land. The Order eventually fell out of favour with the Church following accusations of heresy and financial impropriety, leading to its dissolution in 1312.
Despite this, many aspects of Templar culture have been retained in modern times. Freemasonry is an example of this; it is believed that many Masonic traditions have been derived from those practised by The Knights Templar centuries ago. Additionally, many symbols associated with Freemasonry such as the Square and Compasses are believed to have originated from Templar iconography. As such, it can be said that despite its demise centuries ago, the legacy of The Knights Templar lives on today through Freemasonry.
The Role of the Knights Templar in Greater London
The Knights Templar, a religious military order established in the 12th century, played an important role in the history of Greater London. The Templars, who were sworn to protect pilgrims and defend the Christian faith during the Crusades, established a network of churches and monasteries throughout Europe and had a strong presence in London.
In London, the Templars built a church and headquarters near Temple Bar on Fleet Street. They also constructed several other churches, including St. Mary-Le-Bow near Cheapside and St. Mary Aldermary on Bow Lane. The Templars also maintained a number of other properties throughout the city, including many that were used as residences for members of their order.
The Templars had close links with other powerful figures in the city, such as Henry III and Edward I. This allowed them to gain access to land and resources that they would not have otherwise been able to acquire. This gave them significant power within the city’s political and economic structures.
The Templars also played an important role in defending the city against attack from foreign powers such as France during the Hundred Years War (1337-1453). They provided soldiers for expeditions overseas and helped to raise money for defences against invasion by recruiting wealthy citizens from across Europe.
In addition to their military activities, the Templars also provided financial services to people in need, such as providing loans to merchants who needed capital for trading or investing in property. They also acted as bankers for kings and noblemen who wanted to keep their wealth safe from enemies or creditors.
The legacy of the Knights Templar can still be seen today in many parts of Greater London, particularly around Temple Bar on Fleet Street where their headquarters once stood. Although their presence has now largely faded away with time, their influence is still evident in some areas of the city where their impact can still be felt through iconic buildings such as St Mary-Le-Bow near Cheapside or St Mary Aldermary on Bow Lane.
History of the Knights Templar Greater London
The Knights Templar Greater London is a branch of the larger Order of Knights Templar. Established in 1119, the Order was founded to protect pilgrims on their journeys to the Holy Land and its members were known for their chivalry and bravery. The Knights Templar Greater London has been an important part of British history since its inception and is based in a number of locations across the city. Its members have played an integral role in defending London against invaders over the centuries, from the Spanish Armada to Nazi Germany. Today, it continues to serve as a reminder of London’s rich past and its commitment to protecting its citizens.
Membership Requirements
Membership to the Knights Templar Greater London is available to any man or woman aged 18 or over who is willing to dedicate themselves to uphold its values and principles. It requires dedication, commitment, and loyalty from each member as they strive to provide a positive presence in their respective communities. All applicants must undergo a rigorous vetting process before being accepted into the Order as full members.
Leadership
The Order is led by a Grand Master who is responsible for overseeing operations and providing guidance for all members. The Grand Master is appointed by an elected council known as the Sovereign Council which also includes representatives from various branches of the Order across England. Underneath this leadership are numerous other officers who are responsible for managing day-to-day activities such as training new recruits, organizing events, and raising funds for charitable causes.
The leadership of the Knights Templar Greater London is dedicated to promoting its values within society and ensuring that each member lives up to their oaths and obligations. They are committed to upholding its principles both within their own ranks and throughout society at large.
Weapons and Armour Used by the Knights Templar Greater London
The Knights Templar Greater London used a variety of weapons and armour in their battles. They were known for their heavy, well-crafted armour which was designed to protect them from enemy arrows and swords. The main weapon used by the Templars was the longsword, which was a double-edged blade with a short crossguard that was ideal for close combat. In addition to this, they also used spears, shields, maces, and battle axes.
The Knights Templar Greater London also had access to some of the finest metalworking technology available at that time. They used a variety of metals such as steel, bronze, and iron in their weapons and armour. Steel was especially popular as it provided superior protection against enemy blades and arrows. Some pieces of armour even featured intricate designs that would have been difficult to create with modern tools.
The Templars also had access to some of the latest advancements in weaponry at that time. Their longswords were often of higher quality than those found among other armies in Europe at that time. They could also use bows and crossbows for ranged warfare as well as siege engines such as catapults and trebuchets for sieges.
In addition to all these weapons and armour, the Knights Templar Greater London also had access to some more unique items such as flails and maces with spikes on them which were designed specifically for breaking through enemy shields or walls during sieges. These weapons were incredibly effective when it came to breaking down defences but they could also be quite dangerous for those who wielded them due to their destructive power.
Overall, the Knights Templar Greater London made use of some of the most advanced weaponry available at that time in order to protect themselves while fighting their enemies during battles or sieges. Their heavy armour provided excellent protection against blades and arrows while their unique weapons gave them an edge when it came to breaking through enemy defences or walls.
Membership in the Knights Templar Greater London
The Knights Templar of Greater London is an exclusive organization for men who wish to join the noble chivalric order. Membership in the order is open to any man of good character over the age of 18, regardless of race, religion or nationality. The organization seeks to promote and maintain the ideals and principles of chivalry, as well as providing members with a sense of fraternity and camaraderie.
Membership involves completing several steps: first, submitting an application form which includes a personal statement outlining why you wish to join and what you hope to gain from membership; second, attending a formal interview with two members of the Order; third, taking an oath which binds one to uphold the values and ideals of chivalry; fourth, paying a fee for membership.
Once accepted into the Order, members are expected to attend meetings regularly and take part in activities such as lectures and debates. They are also expected to participate in charitable works such as fund-raising events or volunteering in their local community. All members must abide by the Code of Chivalry which dictates that all Knightly acts should be done for honourable reasons only.
The Knights Templar of Greater London is a unique organisation which offers its members many benefits: it provides them with an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals; it encourages them to learn more about chivalric values; it allows them to contribute back to their community through charitable works; and most importantly it provides them with a sense of belonging and brotherhood that comes from being part of something larger than themselves.
Events Organised by the Knights Templar Greater London
The Knights Templar Greater London is a charitable organisation that organises a variety of events in the city of London. These events are open to everyone and aim to bring people together in order to raise funds for charitable causes. Some of the events include:
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And many more! The Knights Templar Greater London also hosts various fundraising activities throughout the year. These can range from sponsored walks and bike rides to fun days out for families. All funds raised are donated to local charities.
So if you’re looking for an exciting way to get involved in your local community or just want to have a great time while helping out a good cause, why not join one of the many events organised by The Knights Templar Greater London?
The History of the Knights Templar
The Knights Templar were a medieval religious and military order, founded in 1119 by Hugues de Payens. They were a monastic order of knights, sworn to protect pilgrims on their journey to the Holy Land. The Templars quickly became one of the most powerful and influential religious orders in Europe, with vast wealth and influence. They owned land and castles throughout Europe, and had a strong presence in England. They became known for their bravery in battle, defending the Christian faith against Muslim forces during the Crusades. By 1291, however, their presence in the Holy Land had been destroyed by Muslim forces.
The Templars in London
The Templars had an important presence in London from shortly after their founding until they were disbanded by Pope Clement V in 1307. They owned several properties across London, including a large house at the site of today’s Temple Bar at Fleet Street. This was where they kept their records and conducted business; it was also known as ‘Temple Church’. The Temple Church was built to resemble the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, which they had once protected during the Crusades.
The Legacy of the Knights Templar
Although the Knights Templar no longer exist physically, their legacy still exists today. In England and around Europe, many places are named after them – such as Temple Bar in London – and various monuments commemorate their existence. In addition to this physical legacy, there are numerous books and films that tell stories inspired by them and perpetuate their legacy through popular culture.
Their influence can also be seen in modern Freemasonry – an organisation that has its roots in medieval stonemasonry guilds but has grown to encompass a much broader range of interests related to self-improvement and enlightenment. Many Masonic lodges use symbols associated with the Templars or draw inspiration from their rituals and teachings.
The legacy of the Knights Templar is still alive today; even though they are no longer around physically, their influence continues to be felt around Greater London and beyond.
Last Thoughts
The Knights Templar of Greater London have been an integral part of the city’s history for centuries. With their dedication to providing assistance to those in need, they have served as an example of what charitable giving and service can accomplish. They have also provided a platform for members to come together and foster a sense of camaraderie, whilst also raising money for good causes. Their legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who seek to do good in Greater London, and beyond.
The Knights Templar remain a vital part of Greater London’s history, and their presence is still felt today. Through their commitment to helping others, they have become an integral part of the city’s culture and identity. The Knights Templar are a reminder that through positive action and charitable giving, we can make a lasting difference in our communities.
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