An order of knights, tradition of chivalry

The Legacy of Knighthood

An order of chivalry, also known as an order of knighthood, chivalric order, or equestrian order, is a brotherhood of knights bound by sacred traditions and noble principles. Rooted in the age-old ideals of chivalry, these orders were historically established during the Crusades, or are inspired by Catholic military orders and Christian values.

One such noble order of knighthood is the Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury, also known as the Knights of Saint Thomas. This order of knights is devoted to preserving the time-honoured traditions of knighthood, charitable service, and Christian ideals. As an ecumenical Christian organization, we uphold the heritage of one of the oldest chivalric orders in English history, standing as a beacon of honour, faith, and civic duty.

Embrace the Path of Chivalry

Our order of chivalry welcomes all Christians, embracing a diverse range of denominations while maintaining a deep connection to England’s historic heritage. Whether you reside in England or hold a legally recognized title, joining our knightly order offers a rare opportunity to embody the noble virtues of knighthood and make a meaningful difference in society.

Inspired by the courage and sacrifice of Saint Thomas Becket, the martyred Archbishop of Canterbury, our order of knights is committed to upholding the timeless values of chivalry. By adapting these traditions of knighthood to the modern world, we actively promote compassion, integrity, and faith.

Our Mission

We bridge the noble ideals of the past with today’s needs by instilling the core values of knighthood into everyday life. Our knights play an active role in their communities, fostering patriotism, goodwill, and positive change.

At the heart of our order of chivalry is a dedication to charitable service and community engagement, including:

• Charitable donations and fundraising for St Thomas’ Hospital
• Supporting the homeless through food banks and soup kitchens
• Assisting military personnel, veterans, and families via the Armed Forces Covenant
• Organizing educational workshops to promote historical and Christian values
• Participating in religious and cultural events, ceremonies, and military parades
• Encouraging daily acts of kindness and volunteering

By engaging in these noble endeavors, our order of knights and dames preserves the true spirit of chivalry through meaningful action, inspiring others to follow the path of knighthood.

Honouring the Knights

We celebrate the dedication of our knights through promotions and honours, recognizing their unwavering commitment to the principles of chivalry. These distinctions serve as a testament to their noble service and encourage others to join our noble causes.

Join the Knights of Saint Thomas

By becoming a member of the Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury, you join a order of chivalry dedicated to preserving the rich legacy of knighthood while addressing the challenges of the modern era. Whether you are new to the world of chivalry or a devoted supporter of its principles, we invite you to embrace this path of honour and purpose. Together, we uphold the traditions of English Crusaders, making a lasting impact on communities across England and beyond.

Step forward and become part of this noble journey. Embody the true spirit of chivalry today!

The tradition of knighthood has a storied history, where knights were revered not only for their martial prowess but also for their commitment to a code of conduct known as chivalry. Central to this chivalric code are the seven virtues that define the ideal order of knights and continue to inspire our order of chivalry in the UK today.

^Courage

Courage was the foundation of a knight's character, setting them apart as leaders in the face of danger. In our order of knights, courage goes beyond physical bravery, embodying the moral courage to uphold justice and do what is right, regardless of the consequences. Historic figures like Sir Gawain exemplify courage that resonates through time, inspiring the modern knights to be steadfast in the face of adversity.

^Honour

Honour is a pillar of any order of chivalry, shaping every aspect of a knight's life. Knights held their honour in the highest regard, aware that their actions reflected on their order, their family, and their liege lord. Integrity and loyalty remain crucial in our order of knights, as members embody respect and kindness while upholding their promises. Honour serves as the foundation of their character, earning admiration from fellow knights and the public alike.

^Justice

Justice is central to the mission of any order of chivalry. As protectors of the innocent and enforcers of law, knights champion justice for all. In our order of knights, justice is upheld by serving as fair and impartial stewards, dedicated to creating a society based on equity and compassion. The knight’s dedication to justice underscores their role as a force for good, earning them profound respect and admiration.

^Mercy

Despite their prowess, our knights embody mercy and compassion. True strength lies not only in conquest but also in empathy. Our members understand the importance of mercy, extending clemency even in combat. By sparing adversaries and acting with humanity, our knights demonstrate their commitment to a higher moral code. This virtue reinforces the knight as a powerful symbol of benevolence, inner strength, and self-control within any order of chivalry.

^Generosity

Generosity is another hallmark of a noble order of knights. In addition to being warriors, knights act as patrons of the arts, culture, and social welfare, supporting scholars, artists, and those in need. Our order of chivalry champions this virtue by dedicating resources to uplift communities across England. Through generous acts, our knights and dames foster social unity and provide a helping hand to those less fortunate, showcasing their compassion and dedication to the greater good.

^Faith

Faith plays a significant role in any order of chivalry, where knights draw strength and guidance from their convictions. Faith gives our knights a purpose beyond earthly duties, viewing their service to the vulnerable as an extension of their beliefs. Faith anchors knights in principles that lead them through the trials of knighthood, giving them hope and fortitude when facing challenges. It serves as a moral compass, guiding them to make just and purposeful choices.

^Nobility

Nobility in knighthood goes beyond birthright, embracing humility, grace, and inner greatness. Knights are role models, embodying the virtues of chivalry to inspire others. True nobility is earned through character and adherence to chivalric values, rather than through titles or status. Our order of knights emphasizes nobility as a virtue of humility, instilling respect and kindness toward all and ensuring that the knight’s reputation is built on merit and honorable actions.

The Lasting Relevance of Chivalric Virtues

The seven virtues of chivalry - courage, honour, justice, mercy, generosity, faith, and nobility - hold profound relevance in our order of chivalry today. These principles are more than just historic ideals; they are guiding lights that shape how knights serve society and inspire individuals to live with integrity and honor. In a world of constant change, the virtues of chivalry within our order of knights provide a roadmap for living honourably and making a positive impact. Our commitment to these ideals ensures that our order of chivalry remains a respected force for good, bringing unity, compassion, and justice to England and beyond.