An order of knights, tradition of chivalry and knighthood

An order of chivalry, also known as an order of knighthood, or chivalric order, is a brotherhood of knights bound by sacred traditions and noble principles, composed by order rules with the main purpose of an ideal or charitable task. 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.

Reviving the Noble Traditions of English Knighthood

Welcome to the Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury, also known as the Knights of Saint Thomas a distinguished order of knights rooted in the Christian values of charity, honour, and spiritual dedication. Inspired by the medieval order of chivalry founded during the Crusades in honour of Saint Thomas Becket, our modern fellowship continues the timeless tradition of knighthood through acts of compassion, civic duty, and ecumenical unity.

As a contemporary order of chivalry, we bring together men and women from all Christian denominations who are committed to living by the highest ideals of integrity, loyalty, and service to others. Our members are recognized for their dedication to the noble code of chivalry - protecting the vulnerable, supporting the community, and upholding moral virtue in daily life, fostering a fellowship of like-minded individuals to form an elite.

Our order of knights blends the courage, faith, and service of English Crusaders with the compassionate, active service needed in modern life. 

Our Mission: Living the Code of Chivalry

As a dedicated order of chivalry, the Knights of Saint Thomas are committed to making a positive difference in our communities. Our knightly order promotes faith, honour, and service through:

• Supporting charitable efforts and raising funds for St Thomas’ Hospital
• Providing food banks and soup kitchens for the homeless
• Assisting veterans and military families under the Armed Forces Covenant
• Hosting educational workshops on historical, cultural, and spiritual values
• Participating in religious processions, patriotic commemorations, and cultural heritage events
• Fostering daily acts of kindness and compassion in our communities

Membership in our knightly order is open to individuals of all Christian denominations who permanently reside in England or hold an English title. We welcome those committed to humility, faith, service, and strength.

Honouring the Knights and Dames of Today

In our order of knighthood, achievements and dedication are recognized through formal honours and promotions. These distinctions reflect deep commitment to our mission and inspire others to follow the noble path of knighthood. Our ranks are not merely symbolic - they affirm a lifestyle of active service, moral conviction, and leadership.

Why Become a Knight in the Order of Saint Thomas?

Joining our noble order means becoming part of a historic, English knightly tradition founded on faith, honour, and service. 

As a knight or dame, you will:

• Uphold the noble code of chivalry in modern life
• Defend the dignity and rights of all people
• Promote spiritual and moral values rooted in Christianity
• Preserve English cultural heritage and national traditions
• Engage in impactful community service and charitable work
• Join a proud, supportive fellowship of like-minded individuals

Whether you are discovering the ideals of knighthood for the first time or continuing a lifelong passion for chivalry, your journey with us is one of purpose, growth, and lasting impact.

Becoming a member of the Order of St Thomas of Canterbury means joining a proud English order united by tradition, service, and moral conviction. 

Key benefits of joining our Order of knights:

• Engage in English knightly traditions and historic heritage
• Actively serve English communities through charitable projects
• Grow spiritually and morally within a Christian fellowship
• Receive honours and recognition for your service
• Be part of an authentic, ecumenical English order of chivalry

Whether you are new to the idea of chivalry, or a lifelong supporter of its principles, your journey with us is one of growth, purpose, and honour.

Join a Timeless Brotherhood of Knights

Whether you're inspired by history, moved by faith, or driven by a desire to serve, the Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury offer a meaningful path to modern knighthood. With opportunities for charitable work, spiritual growth, and leadership, our order of knights preserves the legacy of chivalry while meeting the needs of today's world.

Become a knight, explore our mission, meet our members, and learn how you can be part of a noble tradition that spans centuries.

Become a Knight. Live with Purpose. Serve with Honour.

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.