Statutes, Principles & Regulations
Preamble
“The Order” : “OSMTJ” is an official recognized non-profit-organization and no part of the earnings of The Order shall be for the benefit of any private member or individual. The Order shall not attempt to influence legislation and shall not participate in any political campaign for or against political candidates.
The Order : “Ordre Souverain et Militaire du Temple de Jérusalem“, registered in Belgium, Namur, on November 15th, 1975.
OSMTJ Inc., Florida, USA is protected and recognized under American law as a formal non-profit-organization.
Art. 1. Title of “The Order”
The name of The Order is “OSMTJ” or “OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL” which is the abbreviation for the full French name :
“Ordre Souverain et Militaire du Temple de Jérusalem – International”, translated into Latin as:
”Ordo Supremis Militaris Templi Hierosolymitani – International“, hereinafter also referred to as : “The Order”,
Art. 1.1. The abbreviated name of “OSMTJ” refers to: The Order.
The Order uses the following appellations and may also act externally under the following call signs, under the following official designations or abbreviations and / or a combination thereof:
- ORDER OF THE TEMPLE OF SALOMON (O.T.S.),
- WORLD TEMPLAR ORDER (WTO),
- THE INTERNATIONAL GRAND PRIORY (IGP),
- ORDRE SOUVERAIN ET MILITAIRE DE TEMPLE DE JÉRUSALEM – INTERNATIONAL (OSMTJ – INTERNATIONAL),
- ORDRE SOUVERAIN ET MILITAIRE DE TEMPLE DE JÉRUSALEM – WORLD (OSMTJ – WORLD),
- ORDRE SOUVERAIN ET MILITAIRE DE TEMPLE DE JÉRUSALEM (OSMTJ),
- ORDRE SOUVERAIN ET MILITAIRE DE TEMPLE DE JÉRUSALEM – STRICTAE OBSERVANTIAE (OSMTJ SO) (O.S.M.T..J. S.O.),
- ORDO SUPREMUS MILITARIS TEMPLI HIEROSOLYMITANI – STRICTAE OBSERVANTAE (OSMTH SO) (O.S.M.T.H. S.O.),
- SOVEREIGN & MILITARY ORDER OF THE TEMPLE OF JERUSALEM (SMOTJ) (S.M.O.T.J.),
- MASONIC TEMPLARS INTERNATIONAL (MTI) (M.T.I.),
- THE GRAND ORIENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL GRAND LODGE OF MASONIC TEMPLARS (G:.O.:.I:.G:.L:.M:.T:.),
- THE INTERNATIONAL RITE OF MASONIC TEMPLARS (I:.R:.M:.T:.),
- THE MASONIC & MYSTIC TEMPLE OF SALOMON,
- THE INTERNATIONAL GRAND LODGE,
Art. 2.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL is the direct heir of the regular, the oldest and the authentic Templar Society, worldwide.
We are the direct heir of the Templar heritage since its formal recognition.
Our Order was restored by His Imperial Majesty, Napoleon Bonaparte, by Imperial Decree in 1807.
In 1853, it was given recognition by Emperor Napoleon III.
On January 19th, 1932, :“Ordre Souverain et Militaire du Temple du Temple de Jérusalem” was first registered as “The Order” in Belgium, Brussels, and in 1957 as “The International Order” in Belgium, Namur /BE-410 20708. This recording was done by three Belgian Templars in Belgium Brussels, Joseph Cleeremans, Gustave Jonckbloedt and Théodore Covias. The record of the registration of the “Sovereign Military Order of the Temple of Jerusalem” appears in the Belgian Monitor on January 20, 1933. Lastly, our Order was re-registered again in Belgium, Namur, on November 15th, 1975.
We house the Belgian Grand Priory.
Art 2.1.
The International Order was under the administration of H.E., Mgr. Prof. Dr. Nicolas HAIMOVICI HASTIER (France / Italy) (1928-2023). He was the Leader of “The Order“ –
OSMTJ- INTERNATIONAL the governing body for the International Temple Community.
From 1994 to early 2023, he held the Supreme International Office as the Regent of The Order.
He was in charge of “THE REGENCY COUNCIL” which represented the International Board.
We house the Regency Council.
Art 2.2.
Our verifiable and demonstrable family tree / lineage goes back in a straight line to 1825 at the installation of the Grand Priory of Belgium by Dr. Bernard-Raymond Fabré-Palaprat,
Art. 2.3
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL unites both Templar community and Free Masonry community.
Art. 3.
The Order is a Network (OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL NET) and is the umbrella and Leadership body of the Internationally recognized, Regular and Legitimate OSMTJ Grand Priories distributed around the world,
Art. 3.1.
As,
OSMTJ.WORLD – WORLD TEMPLAR ORDER (WTO) we are also known as the umbrella body that seeks to bring together all Temple Organizations scattered around the world, regardless OSMTJ or OSMTH, for the purpose of sovereign and autonomous cooporation. These Grand Priories retain their autonomy but must adhere strictly to the basic rules prescribed in the Statutes, Principles & Regulations of The Order,
(www.osmtj.world),
Art. 4.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL is under the absolute Leadership of:
H.E. Mgr. Rudy R.H.R. STEVENS, GM / KGCTJ,
GRAND MASTER
GRAND MASTER MAGISTER SUPREMUS
SOVEREIGN GRAND INSPECTOR GENERAL
OF THE TEMPLE – °33
and the guidance of the
THE MAGISTERIUM
THE GRAND MAGISTERIAL COUNCIL (GMC)
THE SUPREME HIGH COUNCIL OF THE GRAND ORIENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL GRAND LODGE OF MASONIC TEMPLARS
THE GRAND EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (GEC)
&
THE REGENCY COUNCIL
Art. 5.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL is willing to cooperate with any regular order, regardless of OSMTJ / OSMTH , as long as it involves authentic orders that can prove their origin. We do not want to participate in any internal power struggles within some orders.
Art. 6.
OSMTJ’s INTERNATIONAL main task is to provide the fraternity with more structure, unity and cooperation,
Art. 7.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL concerns a private society and community of Brothers & Sisters, and an Order of Knights, who in the footsteps of the historical predecessors : “The Templars”, strive for the perfection of mankind in general, and of our Brothers & Sisters in particular, by applying an ideal of Peace, Love, Nobility, Humility and Fraternity and this according to the ancient tradition handed down provided that the current social tends and developments are taken into account. In its functioning, The Order seeks to preserve, maintain and promote the ancient Temple rite and its traditions.
Art. 8.
We consider historical, social and cultural works of study as an essential prerequisite to realize and achieve our aims of generosity, charity and fraternity, and this both on a theoretical and practical level. In doing so, we build upon the achievements and innovative work of our predecessors in the economic, spiritual, and organizational fields as a source of inspiration for the contemporary social values and standards that we wish to live up to.
Art. 9.
We respect the historical rules of tradition and hereby respect the handed down customs, habits and rituals,
Art. 10.
We are socially representative as an Order and explicitly oppose elitism. We are composed of all layers of the population, regardless of race, sex, age, ideology and level of education. As a ‘group’ we want to be a reflection of the society in which we live and we want to devise solutions for a more prosperous world through thorough study, thinking and communication,
Art. 11.
Through our knowledge and skills, we want to work for the protection of our fellow man, the weaker in society, in general and the welfare of animals & nature and environment in particular,
Art. 12.
We consider it our special mission and duty to give help to third parties, to the poor and needy, and to undertake charitable, and to cooperate in humanitarian, actions.
Art. 13.
Through continuous and uninterrupted study and through thorough mental, intellectual and physical training we want to perfect ourselves individually. A healthy Mind in a healthy Body is our ultimate goal.
Art. 14.
Despite the fact that we have Christian roots, we are not a religious organization. We are Christian inspired and embrace secular and pluralistic society. We explicitly reject any form of fanaticism, fundamentalism and violence, and despite the fact that we undertake various charitable actions, we are not a caritas organization,
Art. 15.
We explicitly reject every form of religiously inspired warfare and oppose every form of aggression, violence and terrorism,
Art. 16.
We embrace and accept our pluralistic and multicultural society and by affirming ‘freedom of conscience’ we demand from all our members absolute respect for the views of others,
Art. 17.
We oppose all forms of injustice, oppression and discrimination and expressly oppose any form of extremism and fundamentalism,
Art. 18.
We do not support any actions that would disturb peace and order in society, and we submit to the laws of the country and/or region in which we operate,
Art. 19.
The official language of The Order is English.
Art. 20.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL is the Regular Temple organization. We are both a Templar and a Masonic organization. We recognize our affiliation and the de facto unity with Freemasonry and we recognizes the historical ties with the Rosicrucians and the Society of Sion,
Art. 20.1. MASONIC TEMPLARS
In addition to our Templar identity, we also belong to the world wide Freemasonry Community and are part of:
- MASONIC TEMPLARS INTERNATIONAL (MTI),
- THE GRAND ORIENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL GRAND LODGE OF MASONIC TEMPLARS (G:.O:.I:.G:.L:.M:.T:.),
- THE INTERNATIONAL RITE OF MASONIC TEMPLARS (I:.R:.M:.T:.)
Art. 20.2.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL provides housing to the umbrella Masonic body:
- THE SUPREME HIGH COUNCIL
OF
THE GRAND ORIENT OF THE INTERIONAL GRAND LODGE OF MASONIC TEMPLARS
(MTI) (S:.H:.C:.),
&
THE INTERNATIONAL RITE OF MASONIC TEMPLARS
(I.R.M.T.), - whose dignitaries who serve the G:.O:.I:.G:.L:.M:.T:. & The GMC – Board of Directors are members of : The “MAGISTERIUM“
Art. 20.3.
As Templars & Masons, we follow the Traditional Rules and Rituals, handed down to us according to the Strictae Observantiae,
Art. 20.4.
Our Grand Priories can independently decide how to organize themselves. They can autonomously decide to be both a Templar and Masonic organization or be exclusively a Templar or exclusively a Masonic Order.
Art. 20.5.
The Order may divide itself in National, Regional, Provincial an Local sections, both at home and abroad. These always work under management, supervision and control of The Magisterium.
Art. 20.6.
The Order may be divided into permanent and/or temporary, separate, specialized divisions, departments, sub-divisions and/or working-and study groups, each with a specific specialization, according to the needs of the members.
Art. 20.7.
The Order may, without prejudice to the provisions contained in Art. 2.1. and Art. 2.2. always authorize the autonomous operation of these divisions.
Art. 21.
The Order has the social aim of stimulating every activity, in the broadest sense of the word, concerning the progress, the enrichment and perfection of fellow men/woman in general, and of individual brothers and sisters in particular, and this in the broadest sense of the word, by means of promoting and organizing intellectual and scientific study on the one hand, such as: religious, spiritual, esoteric, sociological, social, cultural, political, philosophical, historical, geographical, archaeological, ecological, anthropological, criminological, legal, military, artistic and economic study (this enumeration is not exhaustive), and by the promotion and organization of cultural, artistic and sports activities on the other hand, and this both at home and abroad.
Art. 21.1.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL will never embrace any sectarian cause or political party, other than concerns oaths of fealty or allegiance those countries hosting our Grand Priories. While individual knights and dames are free to hold their own opinions and to take part in the political process, they must never associate the Grand Priory with any sectarian or political cause, no matter how noble, lest this Grand Priory be identified with that cause and it detract from our holy purposes,
Art. 22.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL gives recognition to one National Grand Priory per Country, State or Region,
Art. 22.1.
In any Country and/or State and/or Region, a Grand Priory may be established provided it meets the basic requirements as defined by OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL,
Art. 22.2.
In order to become a member of OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL, these Grand Priories must provide sufficient evidence of meeting the conditions set forth,
Art. 22.3.
The minimum requirements to be officially recognized are:
– The future Grand Prior must provide evidence of his/her capacity as a Templar,
– Deliver proof of Investiture: Certificate of Knighthood,
– Deliver proof of Templar Knowledge,
– Deliver proof of Masonic Knowledge,
– Deliver proof of Esoteric Knowledge,
– Provide evidence of Leadership skills,
– Benefit the protection of two Godfathers – members of The Order,
– Provide proof that there are at least 10 brothers/sisters in his/her Commandery,
– Be official registered in the home country as a non-profit-organization,
Art. 22.4.
The Grand Master appoints and ratifies the appointments of Grand Prior Magister & the National and Regional Grand Priors,
Art. 22.5.
The Grand Master appoints the members (only out of the Grand Cross Officers) of the THE MAGISTERIUM, “THE GRAND MAGISTERIAL COUNCIL” (GMC), “THE SUPREME HIGH COUNCIL OF THE GRAND ORIENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL GRAND LODGE OF MASONIC TEMPLARS“, (G:.O:.I:.G:.L:.M:.T:.) which is the “Supreme Legislative Body of The International Order” and is responsible for the daily management of the International Order,
Art. 22.6.
The Grand Master and the Grand Magisterial Council (GMC) appoint the Grand Cross Officers of the “GRAND EXECUTIVE COUNCIL” which is the “Supreme Executive Body of the International Order“,
Art. 22.7.
The Grand Master is the first among his/her peers in The Order. In voting, each council member has 1 (one) vote. The Grand Master shall always have the casting vote,
Art. 22.8.
The Grand Priories pay a one-time entrance fee and an annual contribution to OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL,
Art. 22.8.1.
The annual contribution and the one-time entry fee is determined by the MAGISTERIUM,
Art. 23.
Each Grand Priory can and may continue to operate completely independently and remain fully sovereign and autonomous, without any interference, provided they observe the fundamental principles of the Historical Regulations as provided in “The Rule”, The Statutes, Principles & Regulations and in the By-Laws / Internal Regulations of The Order,
Art. 24.
Each National Grand Priory can be divided into Priories, Commandaries and local ‘houses’, over the territory of the Grand Priory,
Art. 24.1.
Basically, each Grand Priory consists of at least 50 members,
a Priory of at least 25 members
and a Commandery of at least 15 members,
(exceptions to this may be allowed),
Art. 25.
The Grand Priories can decide autonomously on the selection and recruitment of individual members as long as they meet the standards of OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL,
Art. 25.1.
The Grand Priories should communicate to The Order de details of the Knights in their Grand Priory, which are recorded in the Templar Ledger,
Art. 25.2.
The Grand Priories have the obligation to organize at least one “National Conclave”.
Art. 25.3.
The Grand Priories have the obligation to organize in turn an “International Magisterial Convent” at which the Grand Master is invited as guest.
Art. 26.
A Grand Priory of OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL will never reject any applicant on the basis of race, sex, ethnic origins, nationality, social, economic, or educational status, political creed, or religious tradition. We embrace our Christian roots and being a person of good character, the chief criterion for acceptance will be the applicant’s willingness to serve the Grand Priory faithfully and without thought of recompense. We similarly hold that no applicant has an automatic right to join the Grand Priory, but must be accepted by the membership of the Priory or Commandery to which he or she has applied, and meet the standards established for membership in the Grand Priory.
Art. 27.
No officer or official in the OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL will ever order a subordinate Knight or Dame to perform any act or duty that violates his or her conscience, or religious beliefs, the laws of his or her country, or applicable international law.
Art. 28.
We hold, now and forever, that neither titles nor ranks shall ever be for sale, nor will entry into OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL ever be dependent upon any person’s financial or social status. Nor will any knight or dame ever be dismissed from the Grand Priory or held in contempt for the inability to pay donations or obligations. Neither shall any Grand Priory nor other governing body of our organization ever levy involuntary assessments on any Knight or Dame.
Art. 29.
The OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL Grand Priory and its members will respect all state and national laws of the country in which they are located. All Commandery’s and Priories that make up the Grand Priory shall recognize and honor those officers elected to serve as the governing body of the Grand Priory.
Art. 30.
In case that any member violates this Declaration, “The Rule”, the Statutes, Principles & Regulations of The Order, or the bylaws of the Grand Priory itself, in that such a person may have departed from Templar principles and operates in such a manner as to bring dishonor and discredit upon OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL, or the Grand Priory, that person will be expelled,
Art. 31.
The Grand Master shall exercise direction, as well as administrative and executive responsibility over the affairs of The Order , its establishments, subordinate organizations, and members.
Art. 32.
Because OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL is the world headquarters for the OSMTJ TEMPLE Community, and the umbrella body for the National Grand Priories, we usually work exclusively with the Senior Officers of these Grand Priories, within The Order.
Strictly speaking, we do not accept individual members, but refer them to the National Grand Priories,
Art. 33.
As the Grand Prior Magisters & the National Grand Priors are appointed exclusively by the Grand Master (or the Regent), Grand Collar Officers, from the Grand Officer Corps of The Order, can be appointed by the Grand Prior Magisters or National Grand Priors.
Art. 34.
The Grand Master is appointed for life.
Art. 34.1.
All Grand Cross Officers are exclusively appointed by the Grand Master, indefinitely,
Art. 35.
For all other appointments and promotions in the National Grand Priories, the Grand Prior Magisters and the National Grand Priors shall have full authority.
Art.36.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL is the umbrella and Leadership body for the National Grand Priories. As a result, the individual members of The Order can only consist of the Appointed and Accepted & Recognized Grand Priors.
– From the Degree of Grand Prior, one is a Grand Cross Officer,
– So, there is only one Grand Cross Officer per Country,
This means that, in principle, The Order works exclusively with Grand Cross officers.
Exception to this: when necessary, The Order can and may also appoint Grand Officers rewarded with the Grand Collar, from the National Priories, within the GRAND EXECUTIVE COUNCIL,
They are then designated as DEPUTY.
Art. 36.1.
RESIGNATION FROM THE ORDER
DISMISSAL ARRANGEMENT
-
THE GRAND MAGESTERIAL COUNCIL
THE MAGISTERIUM
(GMC)
Members of the MAGISTERIUM & THE GRAND MAGISTERIAL COUNCIL (GMC) (hereafter abbreviated as GMC) are appointed, on the proposal of the GMC, by the Grand Master and for an indefinite period. (In principle, they are appointed for life)
Their mandate may be terminated in case of serious violations against the Statutes and Regulations of The Order or when requested by half + 1 of the members of the GMC, with a written petition to the GMC, and this should be done by a 3/4 majority vote.
- THE GRAND EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
Members of the GRAND EXECUTIVE COUNCIL are appointed for a period of 4 yrs.
Their mandate may be terminated in case of serious violations against the Statutes and Regulations of The Order or when requested by half + 1 of the members of the GMC or the Executive Council, with a written petition to the GMC, and this should be done by a ½ + 1 majority vote.
- GRAND PRIOR MAGISTERS & GRAND PRIORS
After approval by the GMC, Grand Priors are appointed by the Grand Master for an indefinite period. (In principle, they are appointed for life).
When a National GRAND PRIOR is included in THE MAGISTERIUM, THE GRAND MAGISTERIAL COUNCIL / (GMC) & THE REGENCY COUNCIL he/she automatically becomes :
GRAND PRIOR MAGISTER / MAGISTER / MASTER / GENERAL / GRAND COMMANDER GENERAL,
When a National GRAND PRIOR is included in the GRAND EXECUTIVE COUNCIL he/she automatically becomes :
MAJOR COMMANDER,
Art. 37.
In case of inability to function within the Organization due to health reasons or in case of serious violations against the statutes, the rules of The Order , or in case of serious judicial violations against the laws of the country where they reside, the Grand Master and the other Grand Cross Officers may be deprived of their functions. It is the full Grand Magisterial Council & Magisterium and the Board of The Regency Council, under the direction of the Grand Seneschal General and with the assistance of the Grand Adjudicator or/and the Grand Bailiff, who will conduct the disciplinary proceedings.
Art. 37.1.
When the Grand Master and/or the Grand Cross officers wish to retire, for personal or medical reasons, they may be appointed to their office as Emeritus. They will then remain part of the Order, and can help make decisions in the Grand Executive Council.
Art. 38.
In the event of the death or permanent and total medical disability of the Grand Master, certified by a licensed physician, the Grand Magisterial Council shall review the medical evidence and decide by a simple majority the removal of the Grand Master. From this time on, the Leadership of The Order , is entrusted to the Grand Seneschal General, who is the Vice President of The Order , and is the President of The Regency Council, and becomes automatically: “The Regent” of The Order.
From then on, the actual Leadership of The Order rests with the Regent who has the same duties and powers as the Grand Master.
Art. 38.1.
In principle, within a one-year period “The Regent” shall organize and conduct an election by the Grand Priors of a new Grand Master. The Regent shall under the direction of the Grand Magisterial Council, and with the support of and in consultation with The Regency Council, conduct the day to day affairs of The Order until a new Grand Master is elected. Such authority may be exclusively exercised by “The Regent” and all actions taken by “The Regent” must be ratified by The Grand Magisterial Council as soon as is practicable at a meeting or by mail or electronic polling of its members at any time.
When necessary, this procedure can and may be deviated from, pursuant to the joint decision of the “The Magisterium” (The Grand Magisterial Council – GMC) & “The Regency Council“.
The ruling Regent can and may then continue his duties indefinitely.
Art. 39.
Regarding the election process for Grand Master it should comply with the following procedure:
PROCEDURES
Art. 39.1. Legitimacy
It is a fundamental principle of modern times that any autonomous national organization of any nature is free to choose how to organize internationally with others of similar mind and aims and elect its leadership under the principles of justice, transparency and total freedom of action.
These Grand Priories are free to democratically elect their leadership and form of governance if they so wish, always keeping their legitimacy and chosen rule of law.
Art. 39.2. Electoral College
The Electoral College is composed by all of the Grand Prior Magisters & the Grand Priors of The Order who will have the right to vote.
Art. 39.3. Auditor
The certifying Auditor shall be someone not associated to The Order and that receives no benefit whether financial or through personal interest.
The Auditor will verify that the individual Grand Prior Magister & Grand Prior represents the Grand Priory, according to the list previously supplied to him by the Grand Magisterial Council.
Each Grand Priory represents one vote.
Candidates: All Grand Prior Magisters & all Grand Priors can also present their candidature for the position of Grand Master. The candidature should be sent to the Auditor by stating their name, and Grand Priory, .
The Grand Master elect shall be the candidate with more (75%) valid votes. (75% + 1).
Art. 39.4. Calendar
The Electoral Calendar shall be the following: Declaration. The first step is a Declaration that shall express the reason for the elections, the calendar to follow and the Auditors contact information,
During a period of one week candidates will announce their candidacy to the Auditor.
The day after the Auditor will announce the candidates and the list of registered Grand Priories registered to vote.
The day after the announcement the voting process can begin. This process will run for one day, and can’t be stopped by any reason,
The day after the voting has ended the votes will be counted. The Auditor will also use this time to prepare a declaration announcing the results of the elections,
The following day the Auditor shall make his declaration public to all the Grand Priories.
Art. 40. RANKS & titles of address
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL maintains nine grade levels.
However, the National and/or Regional recognized Grand Priories retain the freedom to not necessarily fill all grades and ranks. Thus, some of the Grand Priories will use the degrees of squire, sergeant major, first lieutenant or commander major, where other Grand Priories will not use this or similar degree structure.
Art. 40.1. INTERNATIONAL LEVEL
THE GRAND CROWN / GRAND CROSS /
GRAND COLLAR OFFICER
THE GRAND MASTER
Who is the:
GRAND MASTER MAGISTER SUPREMUS
CHIEF COMMANDER GENERAL
THE GRAND CROSS / GRAND COLLAR OFFICERS
THE REGENT
THE GRAND SENESCHAL GENERAL
THE GRAND CHANCELLOR GENERAL
THE GRAND SECRETARY GENERAL
THE GRAND TREASURER GENERAL
THE GRAND MARSHAL GENERAL
THE GRAND COMMANDER GENERAL
They are the so-called:
‘GENERALS’
‘GRAND COMMANDERS GENERAL’
‘MASTERS’
They all are all Grand Prior Magisters,
Grand Cross Officers & Grand Collar Officers
They are part of the International Administration and work at the highest level of the Order
and work in “The Grand Magisterial Council” (GMC) alias
“The Magisterium”
(Except for the Grand Marshal General and the Grand Commander General who are part of “The Grand Executive Council”)
They are addressed with the title His / Her Excellency
&
The National Grand Priors
Sitting in “The Grand Executive Council”
They are the so-called:
“MAJORS”
They all are all Grand Prior, Grand Cross Officers & Grand Collar Officers
They are addressed with the title His / Her Excellency
Art. 40.2. INTERNATIONAL LEVEL
GRAND OFFICERS / GRAND COLLAR OFFICERS
Since the seats of Grand Cross officers are limited, Grand Officers, due to special merits and abilities may be awarded the Grand Collar.
However, they remain Grand Officers but may perform the assignments assigned to them out of duties of Grand Cross Officers,
Grand Officers / Grand Collar Officers who work in the International Board are the so-called:
DEPUTIES
When a Grand Officer / Grand Collar Officer is added to the Grand Executive Council
the word “Deputy” is listed before or after his/her position
They are referred as Noble Brother/Sister.
Art. 40.3. NATIONAL LEVEL
GRAND CROSS OFFICERS
THE GRAND PRIOR MAGISTER
THE GRAND PRIOR
The Grand Prior Magister or the National Grand Prior is the only
Grand Cross Officer in the National Grand Priory
GRAND COLLAR OFFICERS
The Grand Prior Magister or the National Grand Prior may reward the most deserving officers in His / Her Grand Priory with
the Rank and Title of Grand Collar Officer.
They retain their Rank and Title but may now perform the duties assigned to them, normally reserved exclusively for the Grand Cross Officers.
GRAND OFFICERS
They are part of the National and Regional administration and work under the authority of the Grand Prior or Grand Prior Magister
They are referred as Noble Brother/Sister.
OFFICERS COMMANDERS
They perform within the National Grand Priories
They are referred as Noble Brother/Sister.
OFFICERS
They perform within the National Grand Priories
They are referred as Noble Brother/Sister.
KNIGHTS & DAMES
They are referred as Brother/Sister.
SERGEANTS
They are referred as Brother/Sister.
GUARDS
They are referred as Brother/Sister.
NOVICES
They are referred as Brother/Sister.
Art. 41. RANKS ad GRADES
The Order recognizes the following ranks and degrees:
33 RANKS & GRADES – 9 LEVELS
__________________________________________________________
LEVEL IX
‘GRAND MASTER’ LEVEL
GRAND CROWN / GRAND CROSS / GRAND COLLAR OFFICER
THE GRAND MASTER OF THE ORDER
**** CHIEF COMMANDER ****
CHIEF INSPECTOR GENERAL
CHIEF / GENERAL / MASTER / MAGISTER
GRAND MASTER MAGISTER SUPREMUS
Sovereign Chief Inspector General – °33
__________________________________________________________
LEVEL VIII
‘MASTER’ / ‘GENERAL’ / ‘MAJOR’ / ‘MAGISTER’
LEVEL
GRAND CROSS / GRAND COLLAR OFFICERS
*** GRAND COMMANDER GENERALS ***
THE REGENT
Master of The Royal Secret – °32
THE MASTERS
Grand Inspector Commander – °31
THE SENESCHAL GENERAL
THE GRAND CHANCELLOR GENERAL
THE GRAND SECRETARY GENERAL
THE GRAND TREASURER GENERAL
THE GRAND MARSHAL GENERAL
THE GRAND COMMANDER GENERAL
THE GRAND AMBASSADOR GENERAL
THE MAJORS
THE GRAND BAILIFF MAJOR
THE GRAND VISITATOR MAJOR
THE GRAND SWORD BEARER MAJOR
THE GRAND CHAPLAIN MAJOR
THE GRAND VICAR MAJOR
THE GRAND SCRIBE MAJOR
GRAND FUNCTION MAJOR
THE GRAND PRIOR MAGISTERS
THE GRAND PRIORS
THE TERRITORIAL AMBASSADORS
Inspector Inquisitor Commander – °30
_______________________________________________________
LEVEL VII
** GRAND COMMANDER **
LEVEL
GRAND OFFICERS / GRAND COLLAR LEVEL
GRAND SENESCHAL
Grand Inspector – °29
GRAND CHANCELLOR
Grand Inspector – °29
GRAND SECRETARY
Grand Commander of The Sun – °28
GRAND TREASURER
Grand Commander of The Sun – °28
GRAND MARSHAL
Grand Commander of Jerusalem – °27
** GRAND COMMANDER **
GRAND OFFICERS / GRAND COLLAR LEVEL
GRAND COMMANDER
Prince of Mercy – °26
GRAND BAILIFF
Prince of The Brazen Serpent – °25
GRAND ADJUDICATOR
Prince of The Tabernacle – °24
GRAND VICEROY
Prince of The Tabernacle – °24
GRAND VISITATOR
Prince of The Tabernacle – °24
GRAND SWORD BEARER
Prince of The Tabernacle – °23
STANDARD BEARER
Prince of The Tabernacle – °23
GRAND CHAPLAIN
Prince of The Tabernacle – °23
GRAND VICAR
Prince of The Tabernacle – °23
GRAND HISTORIAN
Knight of The Royal Axe – °22
GRAND CEREMONIAL
Knight of The Royal Axe – °22
GRAND DRAPER
Knight of The Royal Axe – °22
GRAND SCRIBE
Knight of The Royal Axe – °22
AMBASSADOR
Knight of The Royal Axe – °22
SPEAKER
Knight of The Royal Axe – °22
PRIOR COMMANDER
Knight of The Royal Axe – °22
__________________________________________________________
LEVEL VI
* COMMANDER * LEVEL
COMMANDER MARSHAL
Knight Patriarch Noachit – °21
COMMANDER MAJOR
Knight of The Symbolic Lodge – °20
COMMANDER INSPECTOR
Knight Grand Pontiff – °19
COMMANDER VERIFIER
Knight Rose Croix – °18
COMMANDER
Knight of The East and West – °17
BAILIFF
Knight of Jerusalem – °16
__________________________________________________________
LEVEL V
OFFICER LEVEL
CAPTAIN
Knight of The Sword – °15
FIRST LIEUTENANT
Grand Elect Perfect Sublime Master – °14
LIEUTENANT
Royal Arch of Solomon – °13
VISITATOR
Master Architect – °12
SWORD BEARER
Master Architect – °12
STANDARD BEARER
Master Architect – °12
CHAPLAIN
Sublime Elect – °11
VICAR
Sublime Elect – °11
MASONIC KNIGHT
Master of The Temple – °11
__________________________________________________________
LEVEL IV
WARRANT OFFICER LEVEL
KNIGHT
Master Elect – °10
__________________________________________________________
LEVEL III
PETTY OFFICER
MASTER MASON LEVEL
SERGEANT
Perfect Master – °9
PROVOST
Provost & Judge – °8
GUARDIAN
Intendant of The Building – °7
__________________________________________________________
LEVEL II
GUARD
FELLOWCRAFT LEVEL
FIRST GUARD
Companion / Traveler – °6
GUARD
Companion – °5
__________________________________________________________
LEVEL I
NOVICE / ASPIRANT / STUDENT
ENTERED APPRENTICE LEVEL
POSTULANT
Candidate / Student Mason – °4
OBLATUS
Candidate / Student Mason – °3
NOVICE OBSERVER
Candidate / Student Mason – °2
ASPIRANT
Candidate / Student Mason – °1
APPLICANT
__________________________________________________________
Art. 42. Powers and assignments of members of the
THE MAGISTERIUM
THE GRAND MAGESTERIAL COUNCIL (GMC)
THE GRAND MASTER
The Grand Master is in General charge of The Order, without any restrictions.
He/she is The President and Chief Commander of The Order .
THE GRAND SENESCHAL GENERAL
The Grand Seneschal General replaces the Grand Master during absences.
He/she is second in command.
He/She is the Vice President of The Order,
He/She is the Chief of Staff of The Order .
He/She is the President of of The Regency Council.
He/she is responsible for the Public- and Human Relations of The Order.
He/she oversees the General Safety and Security and Military Discipline of the Officer Corps and is in charge of Legal Regulations,
THE GRAND CHANCELLOR GENERAL
The Grand Chancellor General is third in command and replaces The Grand Master and the Grand Seneschal General during their absences.
He/she is responsible for the Public and Human Relations of The Order.
He/she oversees the Social and Religious values within The Order and oversees the Legal Regulations.
THE GRAND SECRETARY GENERAL
The Grand Secretary General is responsible for the publications of The Order and monitors compliance with regulations at meetings. He/she makes the minutes of the meetings of the “Grand Magisterial Council”.
He/she oversees multi-media publications and messages related to The Order .
THE GRAND TREASURER GENERAL
He/she oversees the accounts of The Order .
He/she performs accounting and controls the income and expenses of The Order .
Art. 42.1. Powers and assignments of members of the
“THE GRAND EXECUTIVE COUNCIL”
The positions of Grand Marshal and Grand Commander are entrusted exclusively to Grand Cross officers. Thus, they are always “Generals”.
From the position of Grand Bailiff, also a Grand Officer / Grand Collar can fill any position.
In this case, his/her title is: Deputy Grand Bailiff.
THE GRAND MARSHAL GENERAL
He/she oversees the overall operation of all National Grand Priories – worldwide – and is jointly responsible for the Public Relations of The Order ,
THE GRAND COMMANDER GENERAL
He/She oversees the overall operation of all National Grand Priories – worldwide – and supervises the military discipline and conduct of the members of the Grand Priories.
He/She controls the punctual observance of “The Rule”, the Statutes, Principles & Regulations of The Order ,
He/she is responsible for General Safety and Security of The Order,
THE GRAND BAILIFF MAJOR
He/She oversees the overall operation of all National Grand Priories – worldwide – and supervises the military discipline and conduct of the members of the Grand Priories.
He/She controls the punctual observance of “The Rule”, the Statutes, Principles & Regulations of The Order ,
He/she fulfills the role of Prosecutor within The Order.
Art. 43. ORGANIZATION & STRUCTURE
The International Board of O.S.M.T.J. is composed of
three governing bodies.
“OSMTJ WORLD”
(INTERNATIONAL BOARD)
composed of
The GRAND MASTER or REGENT
(GM / RGT)
is the highest Dignitary of The Order
and is referred to as His / Her “Excellency”,
THE MAGISTERIUM
“THE GRAND MAGESTERIAL COUNCIL”
“The Grand Magisterial Council” (GMC)
which is the Supreme Legislative Body of The International Order
And is responsible for Daily Management of The International Order
and is composed of:
The Grand Master
The Grand Seneschal General
The Grand Chancellor General
The Grand Secretary General
The Grand Treasurer General
They constitute the first degree of the Councilor Board
“THE GRAND EXECUTIVE COUNCIL”
which is the Supreme Executive Body of The International Order
and is composed of:
The Grand Master,
The Grand Seneschal General
The Grand Chancellor General
The Grand Secretary General
The Grand Treasurer General
The Grand Marshal General
The Grand Commander General
The Majors
The Grand Prior Magisters
and the designated
Grand Cross Officers / Grand Collar Officers
&
Grand Officers / Grand Collar
‘Deputies’
They may be assisted by Grand Officers (non-board officers),
They constitute the second degree of the Councilor Board.
THE GRAND PRIORS
All the National Grand Priors are all Grand Cross Officers / Grand Collar and addressed with the title His / Her Excellency
They constitute the third degree of the Councilor Board.
Art. 44.
When a National Grand Prior / Grand Cross Officer is admitted to The Grand Magisterial Council (GMC) – “The Magisterium” his/her address title automatically becomes:
GENERAL, MASTER / MAGISTER & GRAND PRIOR MAGISTER
Art. 45.
When a National Grand Prior / Grand Cross Officer or is admitted to The Grand Executive Council his/her address title automatically becomes: MAJOR,
Art. 45.1.
International Representatives of The Order may also be assigned the title of: DEPUTY,
Art. 45.2.
When a Grand Officer / Grand Collar is admitted to The Grand Executive Council his/her address title automatically becomes: DEPUTY,
Art.46. GRADES & DEGREES : ABBREVIATIONS
| GRAND CROSS OFFICERS | KGCTJ |
| GRAND COLLAR OFFICERS | KGOTJ (GC) |
| GRAND OFFICERS | KGOTJ |
| COMMANDERS | KCTJ |
| OFFICERS | KOTJ |
| KNIGHTS | KTJ |
Art. 47. GRAND COLLAR OFFICERS
Without prejudice to the conferred Ranks & Degrees, The Order may also, exceptionally, confer the “GRAND COLLAR” on Brothers and/or Sisters Grand Officers, from the Level VIII – the Rank of: PRIOR COMMANDER and/or for “exceptional merit” for the benefit of The Order.
Art. 48.
GRAND CROSS & GRAND COLLAR OFFICERS
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL may reward Grand Officers of other Orders for their services rendered to The Order with the Honorary Grand Cross of the Order and/or the Honorary Grand Collar.
Art. 49. AFFILIATES
The Order has three classes of affiliates who, not being bound by the general conditions of admission, deserve to be distinguished for their services :
Dame (or Signet) with the corresponding rank for ladies of high social rank or belonging to the family of members of The Order. The partners of the Grand Dignitaries are “Ladies of honor”/ “Sir of honor” with the rank corresponding to that of their husband/wife.
Squire for the heirs of the Knight/Dames or sons/daughters of dignitaries.
Art. 50. APPOINTMENTS
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL
THE MAGISTERIUM
GRAND MASTER MAGISTER SUPREMUS
H.E. Fra. Prof. Dr. Rudy R.H.R. STEVENS, PhD.,
BELGIUM
ILLUSTRIOUS MASTER
ILLUSTRIOUS MASTER
H.E. Sor. Rosalia Carmen GARAY
PRESIDENT Inc.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL INCORPORATION
USA
THE GRAND MAGISTERIAL COUNCIL
(GMC)
GRAND MASTER
H.E. Fra. Prof. Dr. Rudy R.H.R. STEVENS, PhD.,
BELGIUM
GRAND SENESCHAL GENERAL
GRAND SECRETARY GENERAL
H.E. Sor. Rosalia Carmen GARAY
PRESIDENT Inc.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL INCORPORATION
USA
THE SUPREME HIGH COUNCIL OF THE GRAND ORIENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL GRAND LODGE OF MASONIC TEMPLARS
(MTI) (G:.O:.I:.G:.L:.M:.T:.),
“The International Rite of Masonic Templars”
(I.R.M.T.),
“The International Grand Lodge of Masonic Templars”
(I.G.L.M.T.)
GRAND MASTER MAGISTER SUPREMUS
H.E. Mgr. Rudy R.H.R. STEVENS, KGCTJ,
Sovereign Grand Inspector General, °33
ILLUSTRIOUS MASTER
H.E. Mgr. Jean-Louis LAMS, KGCTJ,
Sovereign Grand Inspector General, °33
ILLUSTRIOUS MASTER
H.E. Mgr. Marc VAN BOXELAER, KGCTJ,
Master of The Royal Secret, °32
ILLUSTRIOUS MASTER
H.E. Sor. Rosalia Carmen GARAY, KGCTJ,
Inspector Inquisitor Commander of The Temple, °30
THE GRAND EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
GRAND MASTER
H.E. Fra. Rudy R.H.R. STEVENS, KGCTJ,
BELGIUM
GRAND SENESCHAL GENERAL
GRAND SECRETARY GENERAL
H.E. Sor. Carmen GARAY, KGCTJ,
PRESIDENT Inc.
OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL INCORPORATION
USA
GRAND CHAPLAIN MAJOR
H.E. Fra. KC Eddie RIVERO, KGCTJ,
U.S.A.
GRAND SWORDBEARER MAJOR
H.E. Fra. Pedro J. MARTINEZ PADRÓ, KGCTJ,
SPAIN
AMBASSADOR EUROPE
H.E. Fra. Hans VAN ROOIJEN, KGCTJ,
THE NETHERLANDS
AMBASSADOR AMERICA & CANADA
H.E. Fra. Daniel TURBYFILL KGCTJ,
U.S.A.
THE REGENCY COUNCIL
GRAND CHANCELLOR GENERAL
H.E. Mgr. Jean-Louis LAMS, IR, KGCTJ,
Emeritus Grand Prior Magister
Sovereign Grand Inspector General, °33
GRAND MARSHAL GENERAL
H.E. Mgr. Marc VAN BOXELAER, KGCTJ,
Emeritus Grand Prior Magister
Master of The Royal Secret, °32
GRAND COMMANDER GENERAL
H.E. Sor. Carmen Rosalia GARAY, KGCTJ,
Grand Secretary General of OSMTJ International
Grand Prior Magister of the USA
President OSMTJ INTERNATIONAL Incorporation
Inspector Inquisitor Commander of The Temple, °30
GRAND PRIOR MAGISTERS
&
GRAND PRIORS
&
MANDATES
GRAND PRIORY OF BELGIUM
H.E. Mgr. Prof. Dr. Rudy R.H.R. STEVENS, KGCTJ, °33
Grand Master of The Order
Grand Master Magister Supremus
Grand Prior Magister of Belgium
Chief Commander Guardia Templari
Chief Commander Cavalaria Templari
Seneschal Principal of The Society of Sion
Grand Seneschal General of The Priory of The Grail
Sovereign Grand Inspector General
GRAND PRIORY OF COLOMBIA
H.E. Mgr. Jean-Louis LAMS, KGCTJ, °33
Grand Commander Preceptor of Colombia
Emeritus Grand Prior Magister
Grand Chancellor General of The Regency Council
Sovereign Grand Inspector General
GRAND PRIORY OF CUBA
H.E. Jorge HANNOT, KGOTJ (GC),
Grand Prior of Cuba
GRAND PRIORY OF FRANCE
COMMANDERY “RENNES-LE-CHÂTEAU”
H.E. Fra. Olivier VANEECKHOUT, KGOTJ (GC),
Grand Commander Preceptor of France
GRAND PRIORY OF GERMANY
H.E. Fra. Dr. Wolfgang PIEK, KGCTJ, °32
Grand Commander of Germany
Master of The Royal Secret
GRAND PRIORY OF GREECE
H.E. Sor. Dory VAN BEKKUM, KGOTJ (GC), °20
Grand Commander of Greece
Knight of The Symbolic Lodge
GRAND PRIORY OF LUXEMBURG
H.E. Fra. Jean-Paul MOSSUL, KGOTJ (GC), °22
Grand Commander of France
Knight of The Royal Axe
GRAND PRIORY OF NORWAY
H.E. Sor. Randi BOLSTAD , KGOTJ (GC),
Grand Commander of Norway
GRAND PRIORY OF PORTUGAL
H.R.H. Prince Dom Nuno
Henriques Monteiro e Silva BARROSO, KGCTJ,
Grand Prior of Portugal
GRAND PRIORY OF SERBIA
Grand Seneschal General of OSMTJ International
Grand Prior Magister of Serbia
Grand Commander General of Guardia Templari
Illustrious Master G.O.M.T.I.
Inspector Inquisitor Commander of The Temple
GRAND PRIORY OF SOUTH-AFRICA
H.E. Sor. Geneviève WEINGARTNER, KGOTJ (GC), °17
Grand Commander of South-Africa
Ambassador Africa
Knight of The East and The West
GRAND PRIORY OF SPAIN
H.E. Fra. Pedro J. MARTINEZ PADRÓ, KGCTJ,
Grand Prior of Spain
GRAND PRIORY OF THE NETHERLANDS
H.E. Fra. Hans VAN ROOIJEN, KGCTJ, °29
Grand Commander Major of Cavalaria Templari
Ambassador Europe
Grand Prior of The Netherlands
Grand Inspector
GRAND PRIORY OF THE U.S.A.
H.E. Sor. Carmen Rosalia GARAY, KGCTJ, °30
Grand Secretary General of OSMTJ International
Grand Prior Magister of the USA
Grand Chancellor General of The Regency Council
Illustrious Master G.O.M.T.I.
Inspector Inquisitor Commander of The Temple