The Chivalric Order of St Thomas of Canterbury
What began once as care for the sick and wounded warriors continues today in the form of a legacy through charitable work, spiritual commitment, and civic duty in service to communities throughout England and the Christian Church.
Living with purpose and meaning, our order of knighthood prioritizes honesty, integrity, and compassion. We believe that the most significant battles are fought in hearts and minds, inspiring positive change and contributing to a more just, compassionate, and hopeful world.
In today’s complex society, the timeless core values of Christian knighthood are more relevant than ever. Mercy and humility provide indispensable tools for addressing persistent inequalities.
A Christian Knightly Order in England
Our order of chivalry in England actively engages in charitable causes, contributing to the betterment of communities. Embark on this journey with us as we champion the spirit of modern knighthood and breathe new life into the code of chivalry.
The Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury acknowledge are not a direct continuation of the medieval Order of chivalry. However, we strive to uphold and perpetuate the tradition of chivalry, ideals and values of the English Crusaders.
These brave men were committed to chivalry, serving others - particularly those in need - and to protecting the Christian faith. Our mission as a Christian chivalric order is to honour their legacy by embodying the spirit of chivalry and faithfulness in our modern activities.
Inspired by the medieval chivalric order founded in 1191 at Acre, we live with purpose and meaning, seamlessly blending ancient ideals of chivalry with contemporary concepts of Christian knighthood.
Our primary focus is to preserve the authentic tradition of the Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury at Acre and the legacy of Saint Thomas Becket, the martyr of Canterbury. As an English Saint, he serves as our spiritual protector, guiding our commitment to good causes and helping us embody the positive attributes of ancient knights in our daily lives.
Join Our Order of Knighthood
Join our knightly order to embody the spirit of Christian knighthood and uphold the values that define nobility. By embracing our mission, you contribute to a legacy of service, honour, and faith, carrying forward the traditions of chivalry into the modern world.
Additionally, we are honoured to hold the ERS Bronze Award as part of the Armed Forces Covenant, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to supporting military personnel and veterans.
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 modern knightly order stands as an ecumenical organization, non-political and non-masonic, welcoming individuals of all recognized Christian denominations in the UK.
These promotions are not merely based on seniority but are earned through demonstrated commitment and contributions to our chivalric order ideals and missions.
Each promotion is subject to the thoughtful consideration and approval of the Command Council, ensuring that the highest standards of knighthood and honour are maintained.
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 our order of knighthood 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.
- Show to others goodness, justice and compassion, never criticize.
- Be patient, calm and, considerate, never give into anger or pride.
- Be pure, compassionate and, gentle, never use irony.
- Be confident, content and open to others, never doubt and be not envious.
- Be moderate in all things, avoid excesses.
- Be humble, kind, modest, generous and respectful of others, never be spiteful.
- Be true in words and deeds, tell the truth, never lie and never slander.
- Be helpful and considerate to others, never deceive or betray anyone.
- Love and protect life, spread peace and harmony, in no way be aggressive.
The internal hierarchy and ranks within our prestigious knightly order serve as a way to honour the achievements and contributions of its members.
Each rank is associated with specific insignia, that serve as tangible symbols.
The design is based on the coat of arms of medieval order of knights, providing a historical and cultural connection to the heritage of the old order of knighthood, and consist of a badge on a red - cream - red ribbon.
All ranks wear Mantle (white cloak for knights and dames and, black cloak for sergeants with red cross and white scallop in the centre), dark suit with personalized order tie/scarf on religious engagements of our order of chivalry.
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.
Honoured 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 Hospitallers of Saint Thomas of Canterbury in their commitment to Church principles.
Chivalric aims of our Order of Knighthood
- Preserve the authentic tradition of the English crusaders by supporting St Thomas’ Hospital in London and continuing the legacy of St Thomas Becket, the martyr of Canterbury, through religious activities and ceremonies.
- Organise and participate in community outreach programmes, including providing aid to the homeless, veterans, and the sick.
- Deliver educational workshops and events aimed at promoting the ideals of chivalry - such as courage, honesty, and respect - among both young people and adults.
- Support and engage in charity events and campaigns, such as food drives and fundraising initiatives, to assist those in need. This also includes volunteering at local charities to offer support and care to vulnerable groups.
- Honour and support veterans and members of the armed forces, expressing gratitude for their service through ongoing acts of recognition and care.
- Recognise individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their communities and who exemplify the finest traditions of chivalric ideals.
- Build a national network of like-minded individuals dedicated to helping those in need and promoting the values of chivalry and Christianity.
- Promote and preserve English heritage through community events and educational initiatives.
Additionally, our noble order of knighthood organise a variety of fundraising events and campaigns. The net proceeds from these initiatives are directed entirely to the charities we support, ensuring that every effort contributes to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.