Living with purpose and meaning

The Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury acknowledge they are not a direct continuation of the historical Order. However, we strive to uphold and perpetuate the noble ideals and values of the English Crusaders. These brave men were committed to serving others, particularly those in need, and to protecting the Christian faith. Our mission is to honour their legacy by embodying the spirit of chivalry, charity, and faithfulness in our modern activities. 

Our non-profit organization of chivalry nature is proudly affiliated with the esteemed Royal Society of Saint George (England) and the Ordo Equestris Sancti Bernardi (Germany). Additionally, we are honoured to hold the ERS Bronze Award as part of the Armed Forces Covenant (UK), demonstrating our unwavering commitment to supporting military personnel, veterans, and their families. Our knights and dames, carry the torch of a centuries-old legacy of one of the oldest English and Christian institutions. 

Rooted in Crusaders tradition, we stand as a patriotic, self-governing entity, operating under English Law and registered with Companies House in England and Wales - No. 16091572. Our knightly order stands as an ecumenical organization, non-political and non-masonic, welcoming individuals of all recognized Christian denominations in the UK, transcending all barriers of disabilities or races.

Inspired by the historical Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury at Acre, we seamlessly blend ancient chivalric ideals with contemporary concepts of knighthood. Our primary focus is to preserve authentic tradition of the Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury at Acre, honouring the historic contributions of King Richard I and the legacy of St. Thomas Becket martyr of Canterbury, an English Saint who serves as our Spiritual protector, guiding our commitment to noble causes. Also, charitable endeavours, embodying the positive attributes of ancient knights in our daily lives. 

As a distinguished order of chivalry, we adhere to a traditional hierarchical structure rooted in European chivalric customs. Within this noble knightly order, members are recognized and honoured for their outstanding service and achievements through a well-defined system of ranks and decorations.

Our order of knighthood places a significant emphasis on active and dedicated participation, ensuring that members who actively engage with the organization have the opportunity for advancement through the ranks. These promotions are not merely based on seniority but are earned through demonstrated commitment, valour, and contributions to the Order's noble ideals and missions. Each promotion is subject to the thoughtful consideration and approval of the Command Council, ensuring that the highest standards of chivalry and honour are maintained.

The pinnacle of achievement within the Order is the esteemed rank of Knight Grand Cross. This prestigious honour is bestowed upon individuals who have displayed exceptional selflessness, civic duty, and unwavering dedication to the Order's principles. It serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to the chivalric code and the betterment of society.

In addition to promotions, knights and dames may also be recognized for their outstanding achievements or meritorious service through various decorations and medals. These decorations serve as tokens of appreciation and acknowledgment, highlighting exemplary deeds and contributions that align with the Order's core values. Such recognition not only honours individual members but also inspires others to emulate their noble actions, fostering a culture of honour and integrity within the Order.

The internal hierarchy and ranks within the organization serve as a way to recognize and honour the achievements and contributions of its members.
Each rank is associated with specific insignia, including lapel pin, neck badge, star and sash, that serve as tangible symbols. The design is based on the coat of arms of the Hospitallers of St Thomas of Canterbury at Acre, providing a historical and cultural connection to the heritage of the Order, and consist of a badge on a crimson - cream -crimson ribbon. The placement of the badge varies depending on rank, with the lower ranks wearing it around the neck, middle ranks wearing it around the neck and wearing a star on the cheast, and senior ranks wearing a star on the chest and sash, allowing for a visual representation of the member's standing within the organization. Dames may wear the badge on a bow on the left chest.

Sergeant - (SST)
Knight or Dame - (KST/DST)
Knight / Dame Commander - (KCST/DCST)
Knight / Dame Grand Cross - (KGCST/DGCST)

Special Badges - The Grand Prior is granted the honour of wearing a livery collar, symbolizing his leadership role.

All ranks wear Church Mantle (white cloak for knights and black cloak for dames with red cross and white scallop in the centre), dark suit with personalized order tie/scarf on religious engagements of the Order.
The wearing of the ceremonial insignia at events and meetings is an important aspect of the Order's culture, as it serves to reinforce the strong bonds of camaraderie and the shared values of its members.

Order's ceremonial sword is a stunning replica of the sword wielded by King Richard I of England, the founder of the historical Order in 1191. One of the most famous stories about this sword is that he sold it to the gullible french claiming it was the legendary Excalibur. This replica allows us to honour historical legacy of the Order with such a magnificent piece.

Our Spiritual Patron - Saint Thomas Becket martyr of Canterbury

Thomas Becket, born in 1119 or 1120 in London, came from a merchant family and received education in England and France. He served Archbishop Theobald of Canterbury and later became King Henry II's Lord Chancellor in 1155. However, in 1162, he became Archbishop of Canterbury, leading to conflicts with the king over Church privileges.
Becket resigned as Chancellor and resisted the king's attempts to limit Church power through the Constitutions of Clarendon in 1164. The tension escalated, leading to Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral on December 29, 1170. His death shocked Europe, and he was canonized as a saint in 1173. Despite the destruction of his shrine by King Henry VIII, Becket's legacy persisted.
Honored on December 29, Becket symbolizes the Church's independence and religious freedom struggle, revered by the Church of England and Episcopal Church. He remains an enduring symbol of courage and integrity, inspiring the Knights of Saint Thomas of Canterbury in their commitment to Church principles.