04/06/2026
Masonic Journeys: The Knights Templar
When many people hear the words Knights Templar, they think of medieval warriors, castles, crusades and hidden treasures. Whilst our modern Masonic Knights Templar draw inspiration from those historic knights, the Order today is a Christian chivalric order within Freemasonry that focuses on faith, honour, service and moral virtue
How does one become a Knight Templar?
The first step is to become a Freemason. After progressing through the three degrees of Craft Freemasonry and becoming a Companion in the Royal Arch, a brother may then seek admission into the Knights Templar.
Unlike Craft Freemasonry, which welcomes men of any faith, the Knights Templar is a Christian Order. Candidates must therefore profess the Christian faith before they can be admitted.
The typical journey in England is:
1. Entered Apprentice
2. Fellow Craft
3. Master Mason
4. Royal Arch Companion
5. Knights Templar
Whilst there are many other Masonic Orders that a brother may choose to join along the way, membership of the Royal Arch is a prerequisite to becoming a Knight Templar.
How long does the journey take?
There is no set timeline. Some brethren reach the Knights Templar within a few years of becoming a Master Mason, whilst others may wait decades before taking the step.
The important thing is not how quickly you progress, but that you enjoy and understand each stage of your Masonic journey.
What happens in the Order?
Without revealing any of the ceremonies, the Knights Templar explores themes of Christian knighthood, duty, sacrifice, integrity and service to others.
Members take part in impressive ceremonial meetings steeped in symbolism, history and tradition. Many regard the ceremonies as some of the most memorable and moving in Freemasonry.
What does it mean to be a Knight Templar in 2026?
Being a Knight Templar today isn’t about swords and armour. Of course there are swords, but It is about striving to live by the principles of faith, courage, charity, humility and service.
It is a reminder that every Mason should seek to be a better man, support those around him and uphold the values he profess, both inside and outside the lodge room.
For many brethren, the Knights Templar provides a deeper spiritual dimension to their Masonic journey and an opportunity to share fellowship with like-minded companions who value Christian Freemasonry.
What’s Next?
For many Knights Templar, the journey doesn’t end there.
A Knight Templar may go on to join the Order of Malta, where the lessons of Christian knighthood are further explored through another beautiful and thought-provoking ceremony.
Whilst closely connected to the Knights Templar, the Order of Malta is a separate Order in its own right and continues the candidate’s journey through themes of faith, perseverance, service and devotion.
We’ll explore the history, symbolism and significance of the Knights of Malta in the next instalment of our Masonic Journeys series.
Have you taken the journey into Knights Templar? What part of the Order inspired you most?