In a momentous occasion that felt an echo through the centuries the order finally returned to its medieval stronghold in the land of the legendary Templar William Marshal.
New Dames and Knights took their oaths and were armed in the tradition of the secular order on the day of Pope Francis’ funeral – April 26, 2025.
The event was presided over by the Most Serene Grand Prior of Portugal Luis Matos, with the aid of the Serene Grand Prior of Croatia Lovro Tomasinec, as Master of Ceremonies, and presented by the Grand Preceptor Jose Carlos Mateus (KGOTJ).
Preceptors from all over Portugal came to support and give valuable assistance to welcome new brothers and sisters into the great and longstanding tradition of spiritual chivalry. The old Saxon church was immaculately decorated with the colours of the Templar Knighthood with its thousand year old walls bearing witness.
Clad in ceremonial white vestments, carrying medieval swords in white gloves, marching to the beat of the drums in perfect military order, the Templars assembled in the crypt of St Ethelreda Church near the heart of Old Templar London where the original Templar commandery was first consecrated in 1185.
Following the instructions and the ceremony of armament in the afternoon, the order opened its arms to welcome family members of the new brothers and sisters. The reception was also graced by the presence of the Crown Princes of Luxembourg – HRH Prince Noah Nassau and HRH Prince Gabriel Nassau and several dignitaries from across the world.
There was great awe and reverence when the Serene Grand Prior gave instruction in the afternoon. The new postulants learned about the true meaning of spiritual chivalry and the importance of preserving tradition in the modern world.
This event marks the homecoming of the order to London and re-establishes the bonds of universal brotherhood and alliance between European and British Knighthood. This was felt at the dinner table where the new Knights/Dames, family members and guests got to meet and share experiences. New friendships were forged in a fraternal spirit lasting until late hours of the night.
The following day Knights and Dames gathered at the British Museum with the Grand Prior of Croatia to get a glimpse of history and the day was concluded by a short walking tour of the old Knights Templar complex which are now tourist sights in the City of London. A sense of zeal and enthusiasm for historic chivalry and camaraderie was felt during the day which coincided with the London Marathon.
The new Knights and Dames to join the order are: I+ Remy Sweeney KTJ, I+ Tessy De Nassau I+ DTJ, I+ Martin Bull I+ Vlatka Ariana Hlupic DTJ, I+ Dane Alexander KTJ, I+ Grace Fodor DTJ, I+ Giordano Giuseppe KTJ, I+ Louise Palfrey DTJ, I+ Keith Rule KTJ, I+ Melanie Antunes-Frederico DTJ, I+ Thomas Antunes-Frederico KTJ, I+ Gary Sivier KTJ, I+ David Stein KTJ, I+ Maria Ferreira DTJ, I+ Isabel Neto DTJ.
By Fr+ Chad Manian, KSTJ
HRH Tessy from Luxembourg on Instagram
Moment: Joining the Oldest Military Order in Christianity
This Saturday, April 26th, 2025, I was deeply honored to be knighted as a Dame in the Secular Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem Universal Prioratus Internationalis at the historic St Ethelreda Church. The ceremony, taking place in the sacred crypt during the solemn day of His Holiness Pope Francis’s funeral, carried profound significance.
This video was recorded by my sons Princes Gabriel and Noah❤️✨☺️
Founded in 1118, the Order of the Temple stands as the oldest military order in Christianity, predating even the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (1113). Throughout its illustrious history, the Order has counted among its ranks notable figures including Sir William Marshal (known as “the greatest knight who ever lived”), and numerous European nobles and leaders dedicated to the principles of chivalry.
The Order’s enduring mission to foster chivalry, authenticity, and service remains remarkably relevant in our modern world. In an era of rapid technological advancement and changing social dynamics, the timeless values of: • Honor • Courage • Service to others • Moral integrity • Spiritual growth
These principles serve as guiding lights for leadership and personal conduct in the 21st century.
Being knighted in the crypt of St Etherial Church on this historic day serves as a powerful reminder of our duty to uphold these noble traditions while adapting them to address contemporary challenges. As a Dame of the Order, I commit to embodying these values in both my personal and professional endeavors.
This honor reinforces my dedication to serving others and promoting peace, understanding, and ethical leadership in our global community. The Order’s centuries-old motto “Non nobis Domine, non nobis, sed Nomini Tuo da gloriam” (Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto Thy Name give glory) remains a humble reminder of our true purpose.
I am profoundly grateful to join the ranks of this historic institution and look forward to contributing to its noble mission in our modern world.