An order of knights, tradition of chivalry

The Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury, also known as the Knights of Saint Thomas, is an order of chivalry dedicated to preserving the noble traditions of knighthood, chivalry, and Christian service. As an ecumenical Christian organization, we carry forward the legacy and tradition of one of the oldest chivalric orders in English and Christian history. We stand as a beacon of honour, faith, and civic duty, continuing the legacy of medieval knights who upheld justice and integrity, fostering a brotherhood of like-minded individuals, serving as an elite community founded on faith and purpose. 

Our order of knights welcomes all Christians, embracing a diverse range of denominations while maintaining a deep connection to England’s historical heritage. Whether you hold permanent residence or a legally recognised title in England, joining our knightly order offers a unique opportunity to embody the principles of knighthood and make a meaningful difference in society.

Inspired by the courage and dedication of medieval English knights, our order follows the spiritual guidance of Saint Thomas Becket, the martyred Archbishop of Canterbury. We are committed to upholding the timeless values of chivalry, adapting them to the modern world to promote justice, integrity, and service.

Our mission is to bridge the noble ideals of the past with the needs of today. By living the core values of knighthood, our members actively contribute to their communities, promoting patriotism and positive changes, inspiring others to follow the path of chivalry.

At the heart of our order of chivalry is a commitment to community service. Our knights participate in various charitable activities across England, including:

• Making charitable donations and fundraising to St Thomas’ Hospital
• Supporting the homeless, food banks, and soup kitchens through donations and volunteering
• Supporting military personnel, veterans, and their families as part of the Armed Forces Covenant through community engagement
• Organising educational workshops to promote historical and Christian values
• Participation in cultural and religious events and ceremonies, as well as festivities and military parades to commemorate heroes.
• Encouraging acts of kindness and service in daily life

By engaging in these noble endeavours, our order of knights upholds the true spirit of chivalry through tangible actions that inspire and uplift society.

We celebrate the achievements of our knights through promotions and honours, recognising their dedication to the principles of chivalry. This acknowledgement serves as motivation for others to join our noble mission and uphold the proud traditions.

By joining the Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury, you become part of a noble order dedicated to preserving the rich legacy of knighthood while addressing the challenges of the present. Whether you are new to chivalry or a devoted supporter, we invite you to embrace this path of honour and purpose.

Together, we uphold the traditions of English Crusaders while making a lasting impact on communities across England. Join our order and experience how the ideals of knighthood can bring positive change to the world. 

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.