PURPOSE OF THE ORDER

"The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, in its particular vocation, is called to support the Church in the Holy Land with commitment and perseverance. This commitment helps to sustain the Christian presence in the places of our Redemption, but also to support the growing needs of the communities through charitable works."

Pope Francis, Audience with Members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, September 13, 2013.

  • Deepen the faith of its members through the practice of Christian charity, in unwavering fidelity to the Pontiff.

  • Aid the charitable, cultural, and social work of the Church in the Holy Land, supporting the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.

  • Support, preserve, and propagate the Christian faith in the Holy Land.

  • Promote interest in this vital mission among all Christians.

  • Sustain and uphold the rights of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land.

HISTORY

Origins: Traced back to the First Crusade in 1099, with documented evidence of the Order from 1336.

  • Early Developments: Pope Clement VI entrusted the Franciscans with the Holy Sepulchre in 1342; Knights maintained the right to create new members.

Papacy Influence: From 1496, Popes, including Alexander VI and later Pius IX, strengthened and reorganised the Order, with significant papal involvement in its governance.

19th-20th Century Changes:

  • Restoration of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem by Pius IX in 1847.

  • Inclusion of Dames by Pope Leo XIII in 1888.

  • Centralisation in Rome under Pius XII in 1940.

  • Modern Reforms: Official recognition as a legal entity by the Holy See under Pope John Paul II in 1977.

Current Status: Over 25,000 members worldwide, organised into 52 Lieutenancies, including several in Australia, continuing its mission to support the Christian presence in the Holy Land.