<<

SOVEREIGN HOSPITALLER OF SAINT JOHN OF JERUSALEM ® OF MALTA

S.H.O.S.J.

“UT UNUM SINT” – That They May Be One

BY-LAWS & REGULATIONS

Revised: 31 July 2017 Promulgated: 08 September 2017

The International Seat of the Order and Diplomatic Centre Castello Dei Baroni, Wardija SPB 07, Malta GC

© 2011. Copyright 2011 of the name of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta .

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced or utilised in any form or by any electronic, mechanical, or other means, now known or hereafter invented, including photocopying and recording, or in any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Grand .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

VERSION CONTROL 4

1. THE OATHS OF OFFICE 5

1.1 HIRH The Prince 5 1.2 H.E. The Lt. Grand Master 6 1.3 H.E. The Grand Chancellor 7 1.4 The Members of the Supreme Council 8 1.5 H.E. The Grand 9 1.6 The Declaration of Allegiance to the Order by the Grand 10

2. THE STANDARD FORMAT OF MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF GRAND 11

3. THE STANDARD FORMAT OF THE HOUSEHOLD REGULATIONS OF GRAND PRIORIES 12

3.1 Admission Process 12 3.2 Investiture 12 3.3 The wearing of mantles and/or Order Insignia 13 3.4 Code of Conduct for Members 13 3.5 Contributions, Oblations and Expenses 13 3.6 Transfers and final clause 14

4. TRADEMARKS OF THE ORDER AND THEIR USE 14

5. THE HANDLING OF LEGAL PROBLEMS 14

6. THE FORM OF QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR KNIGHTHOOD OF THE ORDER 15

7. PASSAGE FEES 16

8. OBLATION FEES 17

9. APPLICATION PACKAGE 17

10. THE INVESTITURE CEREMONY OF KNIGHTS AND 30

10.1 The Proclamation 30 10.2 Washing of hands 30 10.3 Candle Ceremony 30 10.4 Dubbing Sword 31 10.5 Vows of the or 31 10.6 Presenting the Sword 31 10.7 Dubbing the 32 10.8 Spurs 33 10.9 Ropes 33 10.10 ’s Passion Prayer 33 10.11 Kiss of Peace 33 10.12 Promotions 34

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 2 (43) 10.13 Ceremony of Appointments 34 10.14 Benediction 35

11. 35

12. THE DRESS REGULATIONS 36

12.1 Knights Dress 36 12.2 Dames Dress 36 12.3 36 12.4 High Neck Tunic 37 12.5 Open Neck Tunic 37 12.6 National or insignias 37

13. THE PROTOCOL 37

13.1 Office of the Grand Marshall 37 13.2 Order of Procession for Investiture 37 13.3 Order of Recession for Investiture 38 13.4 Seating arrangements 39 13.5 Conducting the Ceremony 39 13.6 Gala Dinner Top Table Seating 39 13.7 Gala Dinner Top Table Introductions 39 13.8 Gala Dinner Toasts 40

14. THE FORMS OF PRAYER 40

14.1 Daily Prayer 40 14.2 Other traditional prayers 40

15. THE INSIGNIA OF THE ORDER 40

15.1 Description of the Insignia 40 15.2 Decision in matters of Insignia 40

16. THE RULES OF THE COURT OF HONOUR & THE PENALTIES 40

16.1 Disciplinary penalties 40 16.2 Suspension 41 16.3 Expulsion from the Order 41 16.4 Court of Honour 41

RATIFICATION OF THE SHOSJ BY-LAWS & REGULATIONS 43

Legal Note 1. OUR Christian, Ecumenical, Chivalric Order derives its legitimacy from the long line of Grand Priories, Priories and that were established in Europe by Paul I Emperor of All the Russians after saving the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem from extinction following the abdication of Ferdinand von Hompesch, who was ousted with all his Knights from the Maltese Islands in 1798 by Napoleon Bonaparte. The Langues and large number of Knights who elected The Emperor as Grand Master by -General in St Petersburg (he was already then the Protector of the Order by Treaty with the late Grand Master de Rohan) were from the legitimate and original contingent on Malta, and thanks to them the Order survived. 2. The revival (several months later) of a separate grouping of other original knights under a in Sicily, which 'group' also eventually obtained legitimacy and is now known as the 'Sovereign Military Order of Malta' could not, by that mere fact, lawfully deprive our Order from the historical legitimacy that it derives from its imperial Grand Master the Emperor Paul I. 3. Thus it is today a fact that whilst there are other charitable Orders using the name of St John, including SMOM, our Order is equally legitimate and carries out important works of Christian charity whilst preserving its ancient military and hospitaller traditions, and must be distinguished from the aforementioned Order known as S.M.O.M., or any other Orders of St John.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 3 (43) VERSION CONTROL

Date Page Chapter and paragraph of changes/adjustments Sign 2016 08 26 Complete document 2017 07 11 37 13.1 Office of the Grand Marshall: Added Protocol Manual as reference 2017 07 11 38 12.4 High Neck Tuni ca: New picture added 2017 07 11 39 13.8 Gala Dinner Toast: Updated text to harmonise with Protocol Manual 2017 07 11 Complete docu ment: Pages renumbered and spellcheck 2017 07 24 37 12.6 National medals or insignias . Added new paragraph and text

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 4 (43) BY-LAWS

1. THE OATHS OF OFFICE

1.1 H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master

I, Chevalier , elected on the as Prince Grand Master of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint. John of Jerusalem ®, Knights of Malta by Chapter-General of the Order, as confirmed by Chapter-General Resolution dated , by the Grace of God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of our Order, fully accept the rights and responsibilities of Prince Grand Master of the Order as laid down and conferred upon me in its current or future Statutes and By-Laws and swear, so help me God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of the Order, in my above capacity to faithfully govern the Order according to its present or future Statues and By-Laws, for as long as I shall be in office as Prince Grand Master of the Order.

Sworn and signed at on the in the presence of and accepted by H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master and H.E, The Grand Chancellor on behalf of the Order.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 5 (43) 1.2 H.E. The Lt. Grand Master

I, Chevalier , appointed on the as Lt. Grand Master of the Sovereign Hosptialler Order of Saint John of Jerusalem ®, Knights of Malta H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master, as confirmed by Decree dated on the by the Grace of God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of our Order, fully accept the rights and responsibilities of Lt, 'Grand Master of the Order as laid down and conferred upon me in its current or future Statutes and By-Laws and swear, so help me God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of our Order, to in my above capacity faithfully govern tile Order according to its present of future Statutes and By-Laws, for as long as I shall be in Office as Lt. Grand Master of tile Order.

Sworn and signed at on the in the presence of and accepted by H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master and H.E, The Grand Chancellor on behalf of the Order.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 6 (43) 1.3 H.E. The Grand Chancellor

I, Chevalier , appointed on the as Grand Chancellor of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem ®, Knights of Malta by H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master, as confirmed by Decree dated on the by the Grace of God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of our Order, fully accept the rights and responsibilities of Grand Chancellor of the Order as laid down and conferred upon me in its present or future Statutes and By-Laws and swear, so help me God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of our Order, to in my above capacity faithfully help govern the Order according. to its present or future Statutes and By-Laws, for as long as I shall be in Office as Grand Chancellor of the Order.

Sworn and signed at on the in the presence of and accepted by H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master on behalf of the Order.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 7 (43) 1.4 The Members of the Supreme Council

I, Chevalier , appointed on the as a Member of the Supreme Council of the Sovereign Hosptialler Order of Saint John of Jerusalem ®, Knights of Malta by H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master, as confirmed by Decree dated by the Grace of God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of our Order, fully accept the rights and responsibilities of Member of the Supreme Council of the Order as laid down and conferred upon me in its current or future Statutes and By-Laws and swear, so help me God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of our Order, to in my above capacity faithfully govern the Order according to its present of future Statutes and By-Laws, for as long as I shall be in Office as Member of the Supreme Council of the Order.

Sworn and signed at on the in the presence of and accepted by H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master and H.E, The Grand Chancellor on behalf of the Order.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 8 (43) 1.5 H.E. The Grand Prior

I, Chevalier , appointed on the by The Prince Grand Master as Grand Prior of the Grand Priory of and belonging to the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem ®, Knights of Malta, as confirmed by Decree of H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master, as confirmed by Decree dated by the Grace of God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of our Order, fully accept the rights and responsibilities of Grand Prior as laid down and conferred upon me in its current or future Statutes and By-Laws of the Order and of the Grand Priory and swear, so help me God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of our Order, to in my above capacity faithfully govern the Grand Priory according to its present of future Statutes and By-Laws of the Order and the present or future Statutes and By- Laws of tile Grand Priory, for as long as I shall be in Office as Grand Prior of the Grand Priory.

Sworn and signed at on the in the presence of and accepted by H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master and H.E, The Grand Chancellor on behalf of the Order.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 9 (43) 1.6 Declaration of Allegiance to the Order by the Grand Priory

As a member of the Council of the Grand Priory of , and belonging to the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem®, Knights of Malta I, Chevalier fully accept the rights and responsibilities of the Grand Prior / Deputy Grand Prior / Chancellor / / Marshall / Hospitaller / Prelate, as laid down and conferred upon me in the present of future Statutes and By- Laws of the Order and those of the Grand Priory and swear, so help me God, Saint John the Baptist and the Martyrs of our Order, to in my above capacity faithfully govern the Grand Priory according to the present or future Statutes and By-Laws of the Grand Priory, for as long as I shall be in Office as the Grand Prior / Deputy Grand Prior / Chancellor / Almoner / Marshall / Hospitaller / Prelate of the Grand Priory and also irrevocably swear and declare in my above capacity, validly representing the Grand Priory and on its behalf, that the Grand Priory shall always punctually and promptly observe the present or future Statutes and By-Laws of the Order.

Sworn and signed at on the in the presence of and accepted by H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master and H.E, The Grand Chancellor on behalf of the Order.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 10 (43) 2. THE STANDARD FORMAT OF THE MEMORANDUM & ARTICLES OF GRAND PRIORIES

A. The Memorandum and Article of Grand Priories shall at any rate contain appropriate stipulations under the respective jurisdiction with regard to the following items and may not contain any clauses conflicting with any stipulations of the present or future Statutes of the Order or the current of future By-Laws of the Order:

• Legal form; association or religious body having legal personality & marginal liability; • Name and seat; • Duration; • Objects and means to achieve these objects; • Financial year; • Members; • Admittance; • Termination of membership; • Voting rights; • Financial means and administration; • Council; • The tasks of the Council; • The representation of the legal person; • Annual accounts; • Annual report; • Accounts Commission; • Archives; • Chapter -General; • Household Regulation; • Amendments; • Dissolution; • Special Stipulations.

B. Furthermore, all Grand Priories are under the obligation to prepare a sworn translation in the English language of their present Memorandum and Articles and Regulations and send a copy thereof to the Grand Chancery within sixty (60) days of the date hereof.

C. Any amendment requested therein by the Grand Chancellor shall be carried out forthwith as requested and insofar as possible under the local applicable laws.

D. Any future amendment(s) proposed therein shall first be sent to the Grand Chancellor, together with a sworn translation in English thereof and shall not be valid, unless expressly approved prior thereto by the Grand Chancellor, having heard the Attorney General.

E. Any Grand Priory, Priory or in the process of being formed is under the obligation to send a draft deed of its Memorandum and Articles and Regulations to the Grand Chancellor before incorporation, together with a sworn translation into English of the same.

F. Any amendments requested therein by the Grand Chancellor shall be carried out forthwith as requested and insofar as possible under the local applicable laws.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 11 (43) G. Formation of a new Grand Priory shall not be able to take place and shall not be valid, unless expressly approved prior thereto by the Supreme Council having heard the Grand Chancellor.

3. THE STANDARD FORMAT OF THE HOUSEHOLD REGULATIONS OF GRAND PRIORIES

The Standard Format of the Household Regulation of Grand Priories which all shall have, shall read as follows and shall where such wording shall not be legally possible for whatsoever reason such in the opinion of H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master, having heard The Grand Chancellor, at any rate contain appropriate stipulations under the respective jurisdictions with regard to the following items and may not contain any clauses conflicting with any stipulations of the present or future Statutes of the Order or the present or future By-Laws of the Order. 3.1 Admission Procedure.

A. The Grand Prior and Council, having heard the Chapter, determines how many (Candidates) members can be admitted in the calendar year by way of a maximum.

B. Any member can propose in writing one or more persons to the Grand Prior / Prior for admission.

C. The Grand Prior / Prior, in consultation with the member who made the proposal, judges the Curriculum Vitae as well as the other information to be provided by. the proposed person or by third parties with regard to the proposed person, as well as the other information deemed necessary by the Grand Prior and Council.

D. The Grand Prior is authorized, in the event there are ponderous reasons present in the opinion of the Grand Prior, not to agree with the proposal. At any rate the underlying arguments thereto will be confidentially made know to the member who introduced the person.

E. In the event the Grand Prior, taking into account the guidelines of the Supreme Council of the Order, unanimously agrees with the proposal, the proposed person will at least during one year have to participate in the activities as a Candidate Member during which period the other Members may form a judgement. (Decision remains with the Grand Prior).

F. After the period mentioned in Paragraph E, decision-making will take place in the first next Chapter about the definitive admittance of the Candidate Member. Basic principle for admittance is that no motivated objections against admission of the person involved, shall have raised, such according to the judgement of the Council.

G. Admittance to the Grand Priory is only open for residents of (Country) and for residents of other countries who, according to the judgement of the Grand Prior and under observation of the guidelines of the Supreme Council of the Order. In special cases, the Grand Prior, in consultation with the Grand Chancellor of the Order, can determine differently.

3.2 Investiture

A. H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master determines when and where Investitures can take place.

B. Investitures shall in principle take place in Malta, but can also take place elsewhere in the event this is determined by H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master under observation of

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 12 (43) Article 3, sub. A of this Household Regulation. All applications for local or International Investitures must be forwarded to the Grand Chancellor.

C. Investiture shall take place in accordance with the prescribe procedure.

D. The Grand Prior appoints' a Marshall who will ensure that the Investiture will be conducted in accordance with the Prescribe procedure.

3.3 The Wearing of Mantles and/or Order Insignia.

A. The wearing of Mantles and/or Order Insignia (with the exception of lapel pins) is not allowed outside occasions to be indicated by the Grand Prior.

B. Unless the Grand Prior shall make an exception in his discretion, Mantles and Order Insignia are taken back upon the end of the membership of any Member of the Grand Priory, respectively have to be returned without further ado upon the end of membership to the Grand Priory.

3.4 Code of Conduct of Members

A. Members are obliged, to actively participate in the meetings, fund raising activities and the other activities organized by the Council.

B. The Grand Prior is authorized to suspend the membership of a member who, without a valid reason, such in the judgement of the Grand Prior, does not or insufficiently according to Statutes & By-Laws of The Sovereign Order of The Knights of St. John of Jerusalem ®, Knights of Malta participate in the activities of the Grand Priory. The basic principle in such a notice of suspension is that the member involved is provided the opportunity to indicate why he/she did not make an active contribution.

C. It is absolutely forbidden for members to seek, either singularly or jointly, pecuniary or business advantage whatsoever with other members of the Order and are obliged to keep any business agreements outside of the Order’s sphere. In the event that nevertheless members have ignored this ruling and disharmony or discredit is brought on the Order, or the Grand Priory then the Grand Prior is authorized to, at the very least suspend the membership of the member/s, or at worst summary dismissal from the Order after consultation with the Grand Chancellor.

3.5 Contributions, Oblations and Expenses

Oblations

A. The members shall annually pay an Oblation to the Grand Priory.

B. The amount of the Oblation shall be annually determined by the Supreme Council.

C. Payment of the Oblation will have to take place with two (2) months following the request as put forth by the Almoner.

D. In the event that payment has not been made within the stated two (2) month period following notification by the Treasurer/Almoner, and following repeated requests for payment, the Grand Prior may decide to suspend the membership of the person involved on the grounds of Article 53, paragraph 3 of the Statutes of the Order, on behalf of the Grand Priory. The suspension is without prejudice to the claims of the Grand Priory.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 13 (43) E. Upon Investiture, a non-recurrent contribution has to be paid for the expenses of the registration and of the mantle and the Order insignia, which have to be returned at first request of the Grand Prior and in the event of suspension of the membership. (Please note: Termination of members can only be authorized by H.S.R The Prince Grand Master in consultation with The Grand Chancellor).

F. The Grand Prior, in consultation with the Grand Chancellor, may in special cases determine that on behalf of the Grand Priory a contribution is granted to the expenses mentioned under E for the Investiture.

G. Any travel costs and accommodation expenses incurred by members in connection with an Investiture are considered the personal responsibility of the individuals who so incurred such expenses and are not the responsibility of the Grand Priory.

H. Any costs and or expenses incurred, by a Grand Priory or any Officers of the Order, in achieving official recognition of the Order on an International basis, having been previously approved by the Supreme Council, are to be borne equally by all Grand Priories.

I. Section 8 refers to payment of Oblations fees.

3.6 Transfer and Final Clause

This Household Regulation was established again on the basis of Article 33, paragraph 3 of the Statutes, in the Chapter of Means and becomes effective on the . In cases not foreseen by the Household Regulation, the Grand Prior will decide. Article 2.2 through 2.7 of By-Law 2 shall be applicable mutatis mutandis. 4. TRADEMARKS OF THE ORDER AND THEIR USE

Those having a grade of the Order or having had a grade of the Order, are forbidden during enjoyment of this grade and after having enjoyed this grade to: A. form whatsoever organization with a name containing whatsoever parts of the present or future name of the Grand Priory, or of the Order, in whatsoever way;

B. outside the Grand Priory or the Order, respectively their present or future activities and otherwise than declared competent thereto by the Grand Prior: to use or to have used or allow the use thereof by whomsoever or whatsoever coats of arms, logos, seals or other signs, mantles or Order insignia (with the exception of lapel pins for members whose membership did not terminate), notepaper, business cards or other documents of whatever nature and all in the widest sense, which are now or in the future being used in whatsoever way by the Grand Priory or by the Order.

5. THE HANDLING OF LEGAL PROBLEMS

At the behest of H.S.H. the Prince Grand Master and the Supreme Council the Grand Chancery Council requires the following procedure to be followed in connection with the handling of legal problems which might arise: A. Whenever a Knight or Dame, Commandery, Priory, Grand Priory, or a Member of the Supreme Council, or an Officer of the Order suspects he/she or they may find themselves in a situation which even remotely could result in Legal problems, in the widest sense of the words, for him/her self, for the Commandery, the Priory, the Grand Priory, or for a Member of the Supreme Council, or an Officer of the Order, respectively for the Order itself, connected with his/her knighthood even remotely or

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 14 (43) connected with the Commandery, Priory, Grand Priory, a Member of the Supreme Council, or Officer of the Order, or the Order itself, they shall, before taking any action, immediately report the situation involved in writing to the Office of the Grand Chancellor and the Attorney General will be contacted.

B. The Grand Chancery Council will then decide, in consultation with the Officers of the Order as deemed appropriate, on a proper course of action, if any, and will instruct the party concerned by email how to act, or not to act, in which case the party concerned will refrain from action.

C. Failure to follow this decree may result in disciplinary or other action against the party concerned or against those who failed to report or to act or not to act as described above and as instructed by the Grand Chancery Council.

Thus drawn up in Malta and signed and sealed in Malta this 14 th day of January in the year 2012 and communicated in writing to all Members of the Supreme Council, all Officers of the Order, all Grand and Commanderies, with the instruction to disseminate this document among the individual Knights and Dames of their Grand Priories, Priories and Commanderies and sent to the Grand Chancellor concerned for publication on the Order’s web-site.

6. THE FORM OF QUALIFICATION & REQUIREMENTS FOR KNIGHTHOOD

A. Applicants must be practicing and exemplary Christians, active in their church and their community’s charitable works’. They must be dedicated human beings who are ready to help those in need, the sick the orphans, the old and the infirm. They must be committed to serve the Order in its many charitable works: such as visiting hospitals or homes for the aged. They must assist in blood donor clinics, and attend meeting and ceremonies of their Grand Priory, Priory or Commandery. The foregoing is not exhaustive.

B. Applicants must state his/her religion, church, pastor’s name and location.

C. Must submit curriculum vitae, dates and place of birth of him/her self, spouse and parents. Children’s’ names and ages are also essential. Religion for of all the above.

D. A letter the sponsor or Grand Priory stating why he/she feels they should be considered for membership and must show desire to serve the Order and support it. All applicants must realise that all the above is a commitment to serve and support the Order and is not a need for title, nor cosmetic or wishful thinking.

E. Provide two (2) passport photos. Photos are to be signed on the back. Vows are to be taken and signed for in the presence of a pastor or Knight of good standing and witnessed.

F. Study carefully and consider the meaning of the solemn vows before signing.

G. Submit proof of that may exist at the time of application, including coat of arms and notarised proof of copies of family documents. Later proofs will be accepted only in extreme circumstances. SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 15 (43) H. All requirements to be supplied with the application and mailed to the nominator. The nominator will submit all documents with his own recommendation for consideration.

I. Non-Christians may be considered if they are supporters of the Order, or recommended for their outstanding works with charity or who excel in the arts, sciences, medicine and other talents that benefits humanity. They will be honoured with either a certificate of merit, or both, depending on how much their works contributed to the needy or humanity as a whole. They are not, however, members of the Order and bound by the Statutes and By-Laws.

J. Minimum age of applicants for Knighthood is twenty-one (21) years of age. Others of younger ages will be considered as Donats, Esquires, Serving Sisters or Ladies-in- Waiting.

K. All applicants must read the Rules of the Order and its History. They must understand both and be willing to sign a certificate to that effect. Sponsors must make this their primary Objective.

L. Donats and other junior members may be Candidates for Knighthood/Dame depending on how well they serve during their apprenticeship.

7. PASSAGE FEES

All fees should be converted to Grand Priory’s own currency, where applicable, at the conversion rate prevailing at the time that payments are due:

A. A substantial Voluntary donation according to the applicant's means is expected.

B. The required to support the Order worldwide is a recommended minimum of EUR 1,000 to a maximum of EUR 2,000.

C. A 25% contribution of the passage fee, is payable to the Grand Chancery prior to any Investiture as agreed by the Supreme Council.

D. The relevant Grand Priory must ensure that the remainder of the passage fee is sufficient to cover the cost of the registration in the International Social Register, the Chancery fees, the Cape, Neck Jewel, Lapel . Tie, Diploma/Vellum, the Annual Oblation of the current year and the postulants own share, in equal part to that being paid by existing Knights and Dames, to attend the local Investiture Programme plus any other incidentals that may be require

E. Each Grand Priory shall guarantee and be consequentially responsible for, the correct and timely payment of all Passage fees to the Grand Chancery.

F. It should be noted and accepted that passage fees may change from time to time in the Statutes and By-Laws.

G. The Passage fees, as established from time to time in the Statutes and By-Laws, are payable the applicant in full, prior to Investiture, at the time and in the manner requested by the relevant Grand Prior, failing which the shall not occur.

H. If a candidate withdraws once accepted, for whatever reason, prior to the investiture, they forfeit their passage fee to cover the costs incurred and the associated cancellation costs as per paragraph 39.2(g) of the Statutes.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 16 (43) I. As per the Statutes consideration should also be given to nominated and accepted candidates, at the discretion of their Prior and Grand Prior, to pay their Passage Fee by direct debit over an agreed period of no longer than 12 (twelve) months.

J. The candidate is to remain as Serving , Sister or with no investiture to Knighthood until all monies are paid in full. Their candidature will lapse if the Passage Fee is not paid, in full, within the 12 (twelve) month period.

K. Remaining monies are to be placed on deposit to form a central fund for charitable projects within the Grand Priory.

L. The above is all based on merit and all monies irrespective of how paid MUST be receipted, accurately accounted for and clearly shown on the Postulant’s documents.

8. OBLATION FEES

All fees should be converted to Grand Priory’s own currency, where applicable, at the conversion rate prevailing at the time that payments are due.

Oblations owed to the Order are established in Euros, the annual amount being determined from time to time at the discretion of the Supreme Council, having heard from the Grand Chancellor and the Treasurer General.

A. All members are obligated to pay an annual Oblation of EUR 100 with 10% being sent to the Grand Chancery by the Grand Priory for the GC’s running costs. Any excess of income over expenditure will be transferred to a central fund on an annual basis. This is applicable to all members irrespective of age unless the conditions of paragraph 43.2 have been met and agreed upon by the said Officers.

B. Additional donations are quite in order. 'The Order has no other financial revenue except what the members donate.

9. APPLICATION PACKAGE

The application package, ‘The Investiture procedure: Book of Ceremonies’, is set up to ensure all required documents and information is provided to the Order in a common format. The application package consists of the following documents:

• Nomination Guidance Procedure • Nomination Form • Aspirants Letter • Application Form • Certification • Vows • See below:

Each document / process is presented on the following pages.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 17 (43) Nomination Guidance Procedure

Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem ® Knights of Malta

Grand Priory of

Dear Knight / Dame,

Please read this information carefully before you complete the Nomination Form attached.

Protocol for nomination to the Grand Priory of

• Only current active members of the Order are permitted to nominate an individual for consideration to the Order.

• Newly appointed Knights & Dames cannot nominate an individual for a period of 12 months after their investiture.

• Knights or Dames must officially nominate an individual to the Order via the Grand Prior of by completing the “Nomination Form” attached.

• The Sponsor Knight or Dame must personally know the individual they wish to nominate.

• It is imperative that the individual not be approached or made aware of the Sponsor Knight or Dame’s intention to nominate them.

• Only individuals with previous charity work experience will be accepted for nomination.

• Details of the individual’s past and current charitable work, occupation and personal information is to be completed in detail on the “Nomination Form”. All information will remain confidential.

• Only the Grand Prior can nominate a spouse of an active member to the Order.

• The decision to accept or deny a nomination is at the sole discretion of the Prince Grand Master, having heard from the Grand Chancellor.

• There will not be any review or appeal process if a nomination is rejected.

• The Order is under no obligation to provide the reasons for rejecting a proposed nomination.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 18 (43) • When a nomination is accepted by the Prince Grand Master, the Grand Prior of will forward an official letter to the individual informing them of the nomination.

• The individual’s acceptance of their nomination is to be addressed to the Grand Prior in writing within one month of receiving the Order’s official letter.

• It is the responsibility of the Sponsor Knight or Dame to advise the individual of the protocols of the Order, the documents to be completed and the fees required to commence their Postulancy.

If you have any questions please contact the Grand Prior, HE Chev on or by email .

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 19 (43) Nomination Form

Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem ® Knights of Malta

Grand Priory of

It is imperative at this early stage, for the individual not to be made aware of your intention. The Grand Prior will contact you when the evaluation process is complete.

I, (Chev/Dame)

Address

Phone home Mobile

Email Address (please print) submit this Nomination Form to the Grand Prior, HE Chevalier and the GP Executive Council requesting that the following individual be considered for appointment to the position of “Aspirant” in the Sovereign Order of John of Jerusalem,

Grand Priory of

Name/s Surname SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 20 (43)

Residential Address

Phone home Mobile

Email Address (please print)

Marital Status Religion

Occupation

How long have you known this individual?

How did you first meet this individual? – please be specific

List past and/or present charitable work – Individual must have charity work experience to be nominated

List other Orders / Organizations / Service Clubs / Military the individual is associated with

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 21 (43)

I am nominating this individual for the following reasons – a detailed answer is required

As the acting Sponsor, I hereby declare that I have read the nomination protocol carefully and understand the Order’s objective to preserve the high alibre of members and the integrity of the Order. I understand the Prince Grand Master’s decision to accept or reject this nomination is final. I accept there will be no review or appeal process if the nomination is rejected and that the Order is under no obligation to provide the reasons for rejecting a nomination.

Signature of Sponsor Date

Please forward this form to

Grand Prior of or Email to

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 22 (43) Aspirants Letter

Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem ® Knights of Malta

Grand Priory of

Name Date

Address

Dear ,

I wish to inform you that Chevalier/Dame SHOSJ recently nominated you to The Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Knight of Malta Supreme Council, to be considered as a future “Knight of Grace” in our internationally recognized historic Order of Hospitallers.

Chevalier/Dame holds you in high esteem; he/she has informed us of your charitable work and good standing in the community. He/She feels you are deserving of the honour of “Knight/Dame of Grace” in our Order in recognition of your dedication to others.

It is therefore with great pleasure that I inform you of the Supreme Council’s decision to accept Chevalier/Dame recommendation.

Your acceptance of this nomination to me personally will immediately elevate you to the position as a “” in our Order. You will be required to complete and sign a number of official documents to be registered with our Headquarters in Malta.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 23 (43) Chevalier/Dame will act as your sponsor during your “Postulancy” process as we prepare you in the coming months for your inauguration.

An Investiture Ceremony will be conducted on at in the presence of our Religious Prelate, Father , our Knights and Dames, and your family and friends.

A formal Ball/Gala Dinner will be held at , to celebrate your investiture.

You are welcome to visit our website to learn more about our international Order; our history, our mission and the charitable work we accomplish in and worldwide.

Website: www.shosj.org, username: shosj, password:

Please contact me on at your earliest convenience, I will be happy to answer any questions you may have and assist you in making an informed decision about entering our esteemed Order of Hospitallers.

Yours Sincerely,

HE Chev. BGCSJ

Grand Prior

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 24 (43) Application Form

Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem ® Knights of Malta

Surname

Maiden

Christian name(s)

Date of Birth Country of birth

Citizenship Marital Status Religion

Spouse’s Name

Residential Address

Phone home Mobile

Email Address (please print)

Occupation

Noble Yes / No (mark) Commoner Yes / No (mark)

Educational Qualifications

Professional Qualifications

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 25 (43) Belong to other Orders / organizations / service clubs / military / etc. Yes / No (mark)

If yes, please indicate

I, the applicant,

Have read the history of the Order, and am now familiar with it.

Understand that if my application is not accepted by the International Supreme Council my donation will be refunded.

Understand the decision of the International Supreme Council is final.

With your permission, we would like to use your contact details, within the Order only, to allow the sharing of relevant information, by letter or email, to and from the Officers of your Grand Priory and Priory, the Prince Grand Master, or on his behalf Aid de Camp to the PGM, and certain Officers of the Grand Chancery, namely the Lieutenant Grand Master, the Grand Chancellor, the Secretary General and the Hospitaller General.

Mark appropriate Yes or No below

Yes / No I CONSENT to my personal postal address and or email address being used for the purpose stated above.

Yes / No I DO NOT CONSENT to my personal postal address and or email address being used for the purpose stated above

Signature of Applicant Date

Signature of Sponsor Date

Endorsement by Grand Prior / Prior Date

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 26 (43) Certification

Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem ® Knights of Malta

I, the applicant, have read the history of the Order and I am now more familiar with it.

I also have read the "Rule & Regulations" which I fully understand and promise to abide by. I understand that as time goes by and local conditions change, some changes may be made to meet local laws or amendments in the OSJ Constitution.

I understand that if I am not accepted, my donation will be refunded on my request and that the decision of the Council is final.

Signature of Applicant Date

Signature of Sponsor Date

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 27 (43) Vows of a Knight

Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem ® Knights of Malta

In nominee Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti. Amen.

Upon the True Faith of a Christian, may God witness that I hereby vow and dedicate myself as a servant of Christ and the Poor, the first qualification of a True Knight.

As member of this religious body, I promise to be faithful and loyal to the ideals of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem: to do everything in my power to contribute to its Glory, Protection, Prosperity, Support and Utility: to combat everything prejudicial to its well-being: never to act contrary to its Dignity, but to conduct myself always as a true Knight of Christ: a good Christian and a person of Honour.

Believing that Christ will grant me a special token of his favour, I therefore, in all Humility, Charity, and Respect agree to join with every sincere and Godly Christian of whatever Church, to bring about by prayer and deed the salvation of the Christian World by helping to promote a lasting Christian Unity.

I will adorn my Knighthood with true Charity, the mother and solid foundation of all virtues.

I will wear on my person the Christian Maltese Cross of eight points, to constantly remind me of my religious vow of always bearing in my heart the Cross of Jesus Christ, adorned with the virtues that attend it. So help me God.

Date Place

Signature of Chevalier / Dame

Date Place

Signature of Sponsor

Signature of Chaplain

Signature of Grand Prior / Prior

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 28 (43) Above Vows to be taken at the altar of applicant’s church, or at the of the Order with his/her hand upon the Bible, or in the presence of a Knight or Chaplain of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta acting as witness.

______

FOR GRAND CHANCERY OFFICE USE ONLY

Date accepted as Postulant Proposed rank

Signature of Grand Prior / Prior Date

Date accepted as Member Rank Reg No

Supreme Council Approval

Date Invested Place Invested

This form must be submitted to The Grand Chancellor

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 29 (43) 10. THE INVESTITURE CEREMONY OF KNIGHTS AND DAMES

10.1 The Proclamation

"In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit."

"In the name of the most holy and undivided Trinity and of our Patron Saint, John the Baptist, we declare this General-Chapter of the Grand Priory of the of the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta, the Ecumenical Order, duly convened, constituted and assembled to be open for the fulfilment of its appointed ceremonies. "

"Assist us 0 Lord, in all our doings 'with Thy most gracious and further us with Thy continual help, that in this and all our works begun, continued and ended in Thee; we may glorify Thy Holy Name and finally, by Thy mercy, attain everlasting life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen"

"I now call on the Chaplain to lead us through Holy Mass."

The Chaplain Says Mass

Following the Mass the Grand Master Shall Ask:

"Are the Postulants ready for their Investiture?"

The Celebrant Shall Answer:

"Yes, Your Highness"

(At this time, he stands in front of the throne and calls or motions for each of the Postulants and Dames (to approach the throne and/or to introduce themselves. The Postulants and Dames, after paying their respects to the throne and the sanctuary, will walk to their appointed place at the top of the steps, facing the congregation).

10.2 Washing of the Hands

(The two celebrants, one carrying the water and the other the towel, will present the bowl with the water to each of the Postulants and Dames to wash their hands. As they wash their hands in the water they will repeat after the celebrant the following ... )

"I wash my hands in innocence and prepare myself for the work of God."

(The second celebrant will present the towel to wipe their hands.)

10.3 The Candle Ceremony

(The LEAD Postulant is led by the Celebrant to the Candle stand. The Postulant will light up the large Candle. Kiss it and say ... )

"I receive the Light of Christ in the name of all the Postulants, to shine forth so we may see and glorify God"

(He then walks to all the Postulants to touch the Candle. When all Postulants have touched the Candle, he will return the Candle to its place and will re-join the others at the altar)

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 30 (43) 10.4 The Dubbing Sword

(The Celebrant carries the Dubbing Sword and presents it to all the Postulants, who will touch the blade one by one. Then he will face the congregation and say ... )

"I carry this Sword to the Altar of Christ the Lord in the name of all the Postulants"

(He then turns and faces the Chaplain and holds the Sword high and asks the Chaplain to bless it. He then turns around and faces the congregation and says ... )

"I receive this blessed Sword in the name of all the Postulants."

(The Celebrant will return the Sword to its cushion and stand aside)

10.5 The Vows of a Knight or Lady

(The Chaplain will come before the Postulants and say ... )

"Ladies and Gentlemen, Brothers and Sisters in St. John, the Postulants will not recite the Holy Vows. At this time I would ask all the Knights and Dames of our Order to renew their Vows with us. Please stand and repeat after me."

"In nominee patris et filii et spiritus sancti. Amen."

Upon the true faith of a Christian, may God witness that I hereby vow and dedicate myself as a Servant of Christ and the poor, the first qualification of a true Knight or Lady.

As a member of this religious body, I promise to be faithful and loyal to the ideals of the Sovereign Order of the Knights Hospitaller of St. John of Jerusalem®, Knights of Malta, the Ecumenical Order, to do everything in my power to contribute to its glory, protection, prosperity, support and utility, to combat everything prejudicial to its wellbeing, never to act contrary to its dignity, but to conduct myself always as a true Knight of Christ, that is to say" as a good Christian and a good person of honour, believing that Christ will grant me a special token of His favour, I therefore, in all humility, charity and respect, agree to join with every sincere and godly Christian, or whatever church, to bring about by prayer and deed, the salvation of the Christian world, b)' helping to promote a lasting Christian unity.

I will adorn my Knighthood with true charity, the mother and solid foundation of all virtues.

I will wear on my person the famous Christian Maltese Cross of eight points, to constantly remind me of my religious vow of always bearing in my heart the Cross of Jesus Christ, adorned with the virtues that attend it, so help me God!

Please be seated

10.6 Presenting the Sword

(The Celebrant takes the pillow with the Sword and presents it to the Grand Master. The Grand Master holds the Sword in his hand and reads ... )

"I receive this Sword in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit; use it in the defence of thyself and of the Holy Church of Christ and of the Christian faith, and never unjustly to the injury of any man so far as human frailty will permit.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 31 (43) Use it for justice and for the consolation of widows and orphans. For this is the true faith and justification of a Christian Knight. Gird thyself with the Sword of Jesus Christ. Remember, that it is not with the Sword, but with faith that the Saints have conquered kingdoms.

Let the brilliance of this Sword represent to you the brightness of faith. Let its point signify hope, and its hilt charity, remembering that the two edges of the Sword represent self-defence, and succour of the weak."

(At this time, the Grand Master will hand over the Sword to the Celebrant. The Celebrant will walk over to all the Postulants, who will brandish the Sword three times saying ... )

"l do brandish this blessed Sword in the name of the Holy Trinity."

(When all the Postulants have brandished the Sword, the Celebrant approaches the Dames, TURNS THE SWORD UPSIDE DOWN, and the Dames will touch the Cross section of the Sword. He then, returns the Sword to the pillow. The Grand Master will pick up the Sword, and continues ... )

"Remember that the dignity of Knighthood is an allegory of the Christian life and a discipline never relaxed throughout life, making the Knights at once complete and free in himself, and obedient to the rules of Knightly conduct, obeying those placed in authority.

The virtues of a Knight are courage, a good faith, courtesy, liberality, piety, and respect for women. No derails of such a life can be unimportant. It originates in natural dignity. The loftiness of demeanour is part of the true Knightly character, distinguished from pride as clearly as admiration is distinguished from envy."

(At this time, the Kneeling Pillow and the Tray of Medals is brought forth)

10.7 Dubbing the Postulants

Note: Dames are to be invested FIRST. They do not kneel, and they only kiss the Cross section on the Sword as tile), are being accepted as Dames.

"By the power vested in me by my ancestors and the Supreme Council, I invest you as a Dame of Malta, Servant of the sick. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

(The dubbing of Postulants requires THREE Celebrants. Two on one side of the Grand Master, one holding the cushion with the Sword and the other one holding the Silver Tray with the Medals.

The third one is to direct the Postulants to the Kneeling Cushion for the Dubbing. The new Postulant will approach the Kneeling Cushion, hands his cape over to the Celebrant behind him, and kneels in front of the Grand Master, on his RIGHT KNEE. At the Dubbing, the Grand Master with the flat of the Sword on the left and right shoulder of the Postulant says ..)

"By the power vested in me by my ancestors and the Supreme Council, I Dub thee a Knight Hospitaller, of the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem®, Knights of Malta, the Ecumenical Order."

(While the Postulant is still kneeling, the Grand Master will put on the new Knight his neck decoration. Then the Grand Master will say ...)

"Arise Chevalier"

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 32 (43) (The new Knight will rise and the Celebrant behind him will put on the Cape of the new Knight. The new Knight will bow to the Grand Master and go back to his place at the altar. The second Postulant is ushered to the Kneeling Cushion. This is repeated until ALL the Postulants have been dubbed when the dubbing is over...)

10.8 The Spurs

(The Celebrant presents the cushion with the Spurs to all the Postulants touch. Then he goes beside the Grand Master. The Grand Master says ...)

Seth thou these Spurs? They represent ready service and signify that as the horse fears them when lie serves from his duty, so should thou fear to depart from thy post or from thy Vows."

(Pointing to the Cross on the Mantle he continues ...)

.. We wear this white Cross as a sign of purity. Wear it also within thy heart as well as outwardly and keep it without soil or stain. As you know, this Cross has four arms and eight points, not without reason.

Remember that the four arms represent the four cardinal virtues: Prudence, Justice, Fortitude and Temperance. While the eight points are the eight signs of the eight beatitudes which thou must ever preserve, that is ... spiritual joy, to live without malice, to weep over thy sins, to humble thyself to those who injure thee, to love justice, to be merciful, "to be sincere and pure in heart, to suffer persecution.

Take this Cross and Mantle in the name of the Holy Trinity for the repose and salvation of thy soul, the defence of the faith and the honour of our Lord Jesus Christ. We place the Cross on the left shoulder that you mayest love it, and that thy right hand may defence it, charging thee never to abandon it since it is the standard of our Holy Faith.

Should thou ever desert thy standard, run away from the enemies of Jesus Christ, thou wilt be stripped of this Holy Sign according to the Statutes of the Order, as having broken the Vow thou hast taken, and shalt be cut off from our Body as a sound Member."

10.9 The Ropes

(Two Celebrants are required, one to carry the silver tray with the Ropes and the other to place the Rope around the hands of each Postulant. After the completion of tying the Ropes, the Marshall will go down to bring the Cross and the Chaplain's Prayer)

10.10 The Chaplain's Passion Prayer

(The Marshall goes to the table, picks up the CHAPLAIN'S PRAYER and the CROSS and hands them to the Chaplain to recite the Prayer. While showing the new Knights and Dames the Signs of the Passion, he says ...)

"In order that thou mayest put all thy hope in the passion of Jesus Christ, behold the Cord whereby he was bound. See too his Crown of Thorns ..."

"This is the column to which He was tied ... this is the Lance which pierced his side ... This is the Sponge with which he was drenched with vinegar and gall ... These are the Whips that scourged Him ... This is the Cross on which He suffered.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 33 (43) Receive therefore the yoke of the Lord, for it is easy and light and will give rest unto thy soul, and I tie the Cord about thy hands in pledge of the servitude thou hast promised.

We offer thee nothing but bread and water and a simple habit of little worth. We give thee and thy parents and relations a share in the good works performed by the Order and by our Brethren throughout the world. Amen."

10.11 The Kiss of Peace

(The celebrant will lead the new Knights and Dames, if they are still at the altar, to the throne for a fraternal welcome and a kiss of peace. The new Knights and Dames will then go back to their places at the altar. As soon as all the Knights and Dames are back in their places the Celebrant or the Grand Master will say ...)

Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you the new Knights and Dames of our Order."

(Now the Celebrant will direct the new Knights and Dames to their original places in the Pews.)

10.12 Promotions

If there are any promotions, they are to be done at this time.

(Those being promoted will be called to the altar and a special ceremony will be performed. If there are no more functions to be performed, the Celebrant will ask the Chaplain to pronounce the Benediction.)

10.13 Ceremony of Appointments

Grand Prior - Prior - Knight - etc., etc.

CELEBRANT:

"I call upon the Chevaliers ... "(Names according to the list)

"Have you considered well the step you are going to take and do you accept the responsibility of your new Rank of your own free will?"

ANSWER:

"I have considered it well and I take this step of my own free will, with joy in my heart."

CELEBRANT:

"As a (new Rank) you will hold a place of honour. Ask the blessing of God that He may guide you to perform examples of good works. Let Him give you the knowledge to be able to correct wrongs, to strengthen those who are wavering, and have patience toward all. Embrace discipline with all your heart while disposing it with discretion toward others. Love and fear are both necessary for good government. Endeavour to make your rule one of love more than of fear. Remember always, that you shall give an account of yourself to God. Know also that the spiritual peril of the (new Rank) is greater by reason of the heavier burden of his charge."

"Raise your right hand(s) ... In front of the Altar of Christ, do you vow to live the rule of the Order according to the Statutes, Regulations and Ordinance, as laid down by your Superiors, according to the Rank of in the Order of St. John of Jerusalem?"

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 34 (43) ANSWER:

"I do."

CELEBRANT:

"By the power vested in me by my ancestors and the Supreme Council, I appoint you (New Rank)

(At this time, if the appointment is for a Prior or a Grand Prior, while kneeling on his right knee, he will be handed the banner of the Order)

CELEBRANT:

"You are charged with this Standard. Carry it, safeguard it with honour for as long as you are the bearer making sure that whoever takes it over from you understands the responsibility that goes with such a charge."

"I call upon the Chaplain to bless this Banner."

(After the Blessing, the Celebrant and appointee(s) will return to their seats)

10.14 The Benediction

(The Celebrant will ask the Chaplain to pronounce the Benediction)

"At this time, I would ask his Grace ... (or Father, or the Very Reverend, etc.) for his final Blessing"

(After the Benediction, the procession will leave the altar and march out start in & with the flag of the Order, followed by tile Grand Master, the Celebrants, etc.)

FIRST IN, LAST OUT

11. VESTMENTS

Vestment Required for the Ceremony Carried by

A. FLAG OF THE ORDER

B. OTHER FLAGS

C. ROPES ON A TRAY

D. SPURS ON A CUSHION

E. SWORD OF OFFICEF. DUBBING SWORD & CUSHION

G. KNIGHTS' MEDALS ON A TRAY

H. DAMES' MEDALS ON A TRAY

(Small Lapel Pins for Esquires & Serving Sisters)

The Following Vestments should be placed on the Table in the Church prior to the Ceremony

I. WATER BOWL

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 35 (43) J. TOWEL

K. KNEELING CUSHION

L. CANDLE & MATCHES

M. CRUCIFIX

N. COPY OF PRAYER FOR THE CHAPLAIN

(On cardboard or laminated)

12. DRESS REGULATIONS

12.1 Knight's Dress

A black robe with a white Cross on the left breast. This is worn only during religious ceremonies.

A black mantle lined with red, with a white Maltese Cross (Approx. 10" from point to point) on the left breast. No medals or are affixed to the Mantle. May be worn at religious ceremonies over formal wear, Military or OSJ Mess Dress, Black Tie and over Day Dress (Business Suit).

12.2 Dame's Dress

Black Gown with white tabs in front. Some Grand Priories may have used the same cane as that of the Knights for the last fifty years; they may continue this fashion as it has been traditional in their country.

12.3 Formal Wear

White Tie: One Neck Decoration, (if ), miniature medals (court mounted), and up to four (4) star bursts. Knights of Justice, at any rank, are distinguished by wearing an Escutcheon on the red collarette of the neck decoration

Black Tie: One Neck Decoration, miniature medals (court mounted), one star, sash.

Business Suit: No medals or decorations unless wearing a blazer with the Crest of the Order (full-sized medals only). Lapel badge.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 36 (43) Dames will were a Dame’s Cross with Bow instead of a Knight’s Neck Decoration.

12.4 High-Neck Tunic

Those full-size insignia mounted on a metal bard should be worn

attached to the tunic over the left breast pocket.

As many as three neck may be worn. The senior badge suspended from its is worn inside the of the tunic in such a way that the badge hangs outside. The second and third badges are worn with the ribbons emerging from the second and third buttonholes.

As many as four stars of orders may be worn on the left side of the tunic.

12.5 Open-Neck Tunic

Those full-size insignia mounted on a should be worn attached to the tunic over the left breast pocket.

12.6 National medals or insignias

Any medal or other insignia (e.g. breast star) representing a national honour or granted by a State to the wearer should be worn on the left closest to the centre and takes precedence over the Order's medals/insignias. If any medals of other Orders are included in the wearer's medal-bar, the St. John medals/ insignia should preferably take precedence over these.

13. THE PROTOCOL

13.1 Office of the Grand Marshall

The Grand Marshall shall have charge over all ceremonial and all matters relating to the Protocol and the Insignia and Dress Regulations of the Order. In case of doubt, the decision of The Prince Grand Master shall be final. Please also the Protocol Manual as a reference .

13.2 Order of Procession for Investitures

1) Flag Bearers 2) Knight Postulants 3) Dame Postulants 4) Pages 5) Maids of Honour SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 37 (43) 6) Esquires 7) Demoiselles 8) Serving Brothers 9) Serving Sisters 10) Knights 11) Dames 12) Knight Commanders 13) Dame Commanders 14) Knight Grand Commanders 15) Dame Grand Commanders 16) Knights Grand Cross 17) Dames Grand Cross 18) Priors 19) Grand Priors 20) Grand Chancery 21) Grand Chancellor and Lt. Grand Master 22) Prince Grand Master / Consort 23) / Prelate(s) / Grand Prelate All participants will march in double-file, with the exception of the Grand Chancellor or the Lt. Grand Master in the absence of the other, the Prelate (if there is only one), or Prince Grand Master in the absence of his Consort. In this case, each will march in single-file.

13.3 Order of Recession for Investitures:

1) Flag Bearers 2) Clergy / Prelate(s) / Grand Prelate 3) Prince Grand Master / Consort 4) Grand Chancellor and Lt. Grand Master 5) Grand Chancery 6) Grand Priors 7) Priors 8) Knights Grand Cross 9) Dames Grand Cross 10) Knight Grand Commanders 11) Dame Grand Commanders 12) Knight Commanders 13) Dame Commanders 14) Knights 15) Dames 16) Serving Brothers 17) Serving Sisters 18) Esquires 19) Demoiselles 20) Pages SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 38 (43) 21) Maids of Honour 22) New Knights 23) New Dames All participants will march in double-file, with the exception of the Grand Chancellor or the Lt. Grand Master in the absence of the other, the Prelate (if there is only one), or Prince Grand Master in the absence of his Consort. In this case, each will march in single-file.

13.4 Seating Arrangements

The seating arrangements can be worked out upon arrival as the Church needs to be seen before this can be done.

It is suggested to meet at the Church on the day preceding the Investiture.

13.5 Conducting the Ceremony

The Prince Grand Master and Grand Chancellor will be conducting the Ceremony with the assistance of the Grand Prior of and two Celebrants which could be from the Priory of .

13.6 Gala Dinner Top Table Seating

Note: The Top Table is reserved for the Prince Grand Master, Lt. Grand Master, members of the Grand Chancery, and the host Grand Prior. When in attendance, the Consort or guests of those at the Top Table will be included, and seated next to the honoured guests. A Cardinal or will be seated at the Top Table if present. If there are not enough available seats, they will go to the members of the Grand Chancery in order of seniority as listed below:

1) Grand Chancellor 2) Deputy Grand Chancellor 3) Secretary General 4) Treasurer General 5) Hospitaller General 6) Attorney General 7) Aid de Camp to the Prince Grand Master 8) Grand Marshall 13.7 Gala Dinner Top Table Introductions

1) Grand Prior of , HE Chev. 2) Grand Marshall, HE Chev. 3) Aide de Camp to the Prince Grand Master, HE Chev. 4) Attorney General, HE Chev. 5) Hospitaller General, HE Chev. 6) Treasurer General, HE Chev. 7) Secretary General, HE Chev. 8) Deputy Grand Chancellor, HE Chev. 9) Grand Chancellor, HE Chev. 10) Lt. Grand Master, HE Chev.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 39 (43) 11) Prince Grand Master HIRH Prince

Note: Introductions will include the Consort and guests of those seated at the Top Table. Also, the use of HE Chevalier will be replaced by HE Dame when appropriate.

13.8 Gala Dinner Toasts

1) The King / Queen or President (generally done by the host Grand Prior) 2) The Prince Grand Master (Generally done by the Aide-de-Camp to the PGM) 3) The Order (generally done by the Grand Chancellor) 4) The new Knights and Dames (generally done by the Hospitaller General) 14. FORMS OF PRAYER

14.1 Daily Prayer

"Lord Jesus, who has deigned to call me to the ranks of the Knights Hospital/er of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem®, Knights of Malta – The Ecumenical Order, I humbly beg you to help me to stay loyal to the traditions of our Order, practicing and defending the Christian religion against impiety and exercising charity toward my neighbour, particularly toward the poor and the sick. Give me the necessary force to be able to realise these desires in accordance with the instructions in 'the Gospel, with a disinterested and profoundly Christian spirit, for the glory of God, the peace of the world and the good of the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem. So be it."

14.2 Other Traditional Prayers

For other Traditional Prayers, consult the Prayer Book of the Order.

15. THE INSIGNIA OF THE ORDER

15.1 Description of the Insignia

The detailed description of the Insignia of the Order is available at The Grand Chancery and can be obtained from H.E. The Secretary General or H.E. The Grand Marshall.

15.2 Decision in matters of Insignia

The decision of the Grand Marshall in matters of Insignia shall be binding and final.

16. THE RULES OF THE COURT OF HONOUR AND THE PENALTIES

These Rules are without prejudice to the rights of the Grand Priory, Priory or Commandery as laid down in its Memorandum and its Household Regulation and the member's duties under these documents.

16.1 Disciplinary penalties

Those Members of the Order whose conduct deviates from the Vows they have taken upon entry into the Order and whose actions, behaviour or comportment are deemed derogatory to the dignity of the Order or of a Grand Priory, Priory or Commandery, or inconsistent with the Chivalric or Clerical status, will be subject to the disciplinary penalties as foreseen in this By-Law.

These penalties, in proportion to the seriousness of the behaviour involved, are the following:

A. Warning;

B. Rebuke; SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 40 (43) C. Suspension from participating in certain activities of the Order, or of a Grand Priory, Priory or Commandery;

D. Denial of the right to carry out certain functions in the Order, in a Grand Priory, Priory or Commandery;

E. Complete suspension in the Order, in a Grand Priory, Priory or Commandery;

F. Expulsion from the Order, which shall entail automatic expulsion from a Grand Priory, Priory or Commandery.

16.2 Suspension

During a period of suspension, the member shall not be admitted to any meeting of any organ of the Order or a Grand Priory, Priory or Commandery, and shall not be able to participate in voting there, while furthermore during this period also other rights connected to the membership can be denied to him.

16.3 Expulsion from the Order

Expulsion from the Order can only be pronounced by the Order itself and only in the event the Member seriously acts in contravention with the Statutes or By-Laws of the Order, Rules and Regulations respectively; seriously damages the Order or a Grand Priory, Priory or Commandery.

16.4 Court of Honour

For the above penalties, there will be constituted a Court of Honour by the Supreme Council, consisting of three (3) members, being Knights or Dames of Justice (Prince Grand Master, Grand Chancellor, etc.) in good standing, i.e. a President, a Secretary General and a Member.

The initiative to start a trial against any accused before this Court of Honour shall belong the Grand Chancery Council in consultation with HE The Attorney General, but only after having heard the accuser and the accused himself along with the accused’s . An enquiry will be ordered to investigate the case and attempt to give both the accused and the accuser any opportunity for settlement.

A. Failing this attempt, in the discretion of the Grand Chancery Council, the accused will immediately be advised by the Attorney General of the Grand Chancery Council’s irrevocable decision to start a trial against the accused before the Court of Honour and will present his defence before the Court of Honour within thirty (30) days granted to him therefore after consultations with H.S.H. The Prince Grand Master, HE The Grand Chancellor and the Supreme Council.

B. This period having lapsed, the Attorney General will call the accused to personally appear before the Court of Honour within a time span of not less than fifteen (15) days. All possible efforts will be taken resolve the matter before the accused is officially set to trial.

C. The accused may avail himself of a defence by any attorney who has his confidence.

D. The Secretary of the Court of Honour will draw up a Protocol of the Hearing, which will be signed by tile President of the Court of Honour and himself.

E. The decision of the Court of Honour dated and signed by all its Members will be sent by the Secretary of the Court of Honour to the Prince Grand Master and the Grand Chancery Council.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 41 (43) F. The notification of the penalty by the Attorney General to the accused must be in writing and sent via registered mail.

G. The Grand Chancery will keep an official document of this notification to the accused in the archives of the Order.

H. An appeal of all disciplinary measures to the Grand Chancery Council shall be permissible within thirty (30) days following the date of the notification of the decision to the convicted member.

I. In case of a decision of expulsion, the accused is suspended during the appeal period and pending the appeal itself.

Article A–G hereof shall mutatis mutandis be applicable to the appeal to the Prince Grand Master.

The decision of t the Grand Chancery Council, having heard the convicted member and his attorney, as well as the Attorney General, shall be binding and final.

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 42 (43) RATIFICATION OF THE SHOSJ BY-LAWS & REGULATIONS

This, the latest version/update, of the SHOSJ By-Laws & Regulations is ratified by the Supreme Council at the

on the of 2017,

and thereby replaces any previous existing version of the SHOSJ By-Laws & Regulations adopted and amended. (Adopted 1912; Amended 1959 – 1962 – 1976 – 1993 – 2002 – 2012 – 2013 – 2016)

The Supreme Council APROVED

To be co-signed at a minimum of one Drafter and one Releaser

HE Roger Cotton, BGCSJ HIRH Prince Sandor Habsburg Lothringen, GBGCSJ SHOSJ Grand Chancellor – Drafter SHOSJ Prince Grand Master – Releaser

HE Harry Jaantola, BGCSJ HE Pasquale Pedulla, BGCSJ SHOSJ Secretary General – Drafter SHOSJ Lieutenant Grand Master – Releaser

SHOSJ Supreme Council By-Laws & Regulations 43 (43)