What it means to be a member
When you become a Knight or Dame of the Holy Sepulchre, you join a community of 30,000 men and women worldwide who share a common calling. You commit to living your Catholic faith more deeply, supporting the Church in the Holy Land through prayer and giving, and participating in the life of your local Section.
This is not an honorary title. It's a vocation — one that asks something real of you.
Spiritual life
Active Catholic faith is the foundation. You're expected to participate in Mass, attend Order feast days and Section events, and pursue your own spiritual growth through prayer and reflection.
Charitable service
You support the Holy Land charities the Order funds — hospitals, schools, elder care homes, and parishes. You participate in the Good Friday Collection. And at least once, you're expected to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land to see your impact firsthand.
Financial support
Your annual contribution of $750 is forwarded through the Grand Magisterium in Rome to fund institutions across the Holy Land. Additional voluntary giving to specific charities is encouraged.
The nomination process
Candidates are generally nominated by existing members of the Order, though individuals who feel called to join may also inquire directly. The process takes approximately 6 to 8 months from nomination to investiture.
Nomination
A current member nominates you, or you express your interest to your local Section President. Deadline: February 1.
Documentation
You submit your baptismal certificate, a letter from your pastor, a recommendation from your diocesan bishop, a curriculum vitae, and an initial contribution of $1,000.
Review
The Lieutenant and Lieutenancy Prior review and approve your nomination packet, then forward it to the Grand Magisterium in Rome for final approval.
Formation
Once approved, you receive preparation materials from the Vice Chancellor of Formation and arrange to obtain your vestments.
Investiture
You are formally invested as a Knight or Dame at the next Annual Meeting, typically held in September or October.
"The commitment of service, financial support, and spiritual growth is a lifelong commitment."
— Member Operations Manual, North Central Lieutenancy
Interested in learning more?
We'd love to hear from you. Our membership is organized into local Sections aligned to your diocese. Visit our Leadership page to find the Section that serves your area — your Section President is the first point of contact for questions about the Order and the path to membership.
See Sections & contacts →