Heroines of Templar Crusades
Initiation Ritual

n.d.

Position of stations in a Guild
Princess Captain - In the East, at the head of the Guild
Royal Advisor - In the East, at the right of the Princess Captain
First Lieutenant - In the West
Assistant Royal Advisor - In the West, at the right of the Princess First Lieutenant
Princess Second Lieutenant - In the South Princess
Treasurer - In the East, on the right of the Princess Captain
Princess Secretary - In the East, on the left of the Princess
Captain Princess Commissary - In the North
Princess Assistant Commissary - In North, on the right of Princess Commissary
Princess Chaplain - In the Southwest of the Princess Captain
Princess Cross Bearer - In the Southwest of the altar
Princess Inside Sentinel - In the Northwest inside the door
Princess Outside Sentinel - In the Northwest outside the door
Princess Inspectress - In the Northwest of the First Lieutenant opposite of Princess Cross Bearer
Princesses (Members) - In the South on the side of the Second Lieutenant or about the Palace as needed
 
Simon of Cyrene
"They compel! one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear His cross" - Mark 15:21. Cyrene was a city of Libya, in North Africa. In ancient times there was a large colony of Jew in Cyrene. There was also a synagogue in Jerusalem identified with Cyrenian's and others. Simon had heard of Jesus. His sons were believers in the Savior, but he himself was not a disciple.
Why did they select Simon? The Scriptures do not offer any reason: but it has been supposed that he was the first person they spied. This may be the explanation, but perhaps there is another. Simon was a dark man. He is referred to as Simon Niger, which suggest he was from Africa. It is known that Romans looked down on Africans as lowly, menial servants, fit for the ugliest tasks. The Bible states that Simon "was the father of Alexan- der and Rufus", two sons who were doubtless known to the early believers who read the account written by Mark. What happened to Simon? In Acts 13:1, we meet the same name with a slightly different spelling. It designates an outstanding Christian teacher, a black man, who is placed side by side with another teacher from Cyrene. In Acts 19:33, we meet an Alexander, a convert to the faith, who was with Paul in Ephesus and in Romans 16:13, the same Apostle sends his greetings to a Rufus in that city's congregation of believers. Putting all this together, we would like to believe that Simon's cross-bearing, led to his crown-wearing.
Laurel Wreath - a twisted band of flowers, commonly circular, as for a crown or chaplet. Circular shaped crowned or decked as a mark of distinction of honor, deserving of distinction, preeminent, A crown or wreath of merit or high achievement.
Cyrene - Formerly a Greek colony; The home of one the (Simon of Cyrene) discipline who followed Christ and helped him carry the burdens of the Christ. It represents the charitable act of kindness in assisting a weary traveler.
Martha - Friend of Jesus Sister of Lazarus and Mary who served Jesus at Bethany Luke 10:40, hence, figuratively, a house worker. First in Command after the Royal Princess Commandress and Deputy Comandress.
Mary Magdalene - A disciple from Magdala out of whom Jesus cast seven devils Luke 8. She is often identified with penitent sinner whom Jesus forgave. Luke 7:36,50. Second in Command after the Royal Princess Commandress and Deputy Commandress and Martha.
Shepherdess - A keeper or herder of sheep figuratively, a pastor, leader, or guide that watches over guards, or tend to sheep.
Stewardess - A female person entrusted with management of estates or affairs not his own; an administrator; a person put in charge of the domestic affairs of an "establishment".
Altaress - A female responsible for protecting the altar which is the raised place or structure on which sacrifices may be offered and burned incense as an act of worship in the Court of Cyrene's.
 
 
Opening Ceremony (Official-To Conduct Business)
 
Note: The Second Lieutenant will see that all paraphernalia is inventoried and in place before opening the Guild.
Princess Captain, *: Princesses and Sir Knights, I am about to open … Guild No. … Heroines of Templars Crusaders for the transaction of business. Officers will take their stations and be properly clothed. Princess Second Lieutenant, please post the Sentinels and direct them to exercise proper vigilance and permit none to enter or depart during our opening ceremony.
Princess Second Lieutenant rises, salutes the Captain, goes to the Sentinels seated close to her station and conducts them to the door and posts them inside and outside of the door making sure they have their swords, then returns to her station and reports: Princess Captain, your orders are obeyed.
Princess Captain, remains standing throughout the Opening: First Lieutenant, are you satisfied that all present are Princesses of the Heroines of the Templars Crusaders?
Princess First Lieutenant, rises, salutes the Captain and remains standing: Princess Captain, I shall ascertain and report the same. Princess Commissary, ATTENTION! Advance and communicate the password to me.
Commissary advances, salutes and gives her the password. You will now demand it from Princesses in the Northeast by way of the North to the West. Do not take it from the Princess Captain and Sir Knights.
Princess Assistant Commissary, ATTENTION! Advance and communicate the password to me.
Asst. Commissary advances, salutes and gives her the password. You will demand it from the Southeast by way of the South to the West.
Princess Assistant Commissary, after collecting the passwords, meet the Commissary in front of the First Lieutenant and says: Commissary, I find all those in my territory in possession of the password.
Princess Commissary, after collecting the passwords and hearing the Assistant Commissary, the Commissary says: Princess First Lieutenant, I find all Princesses present in possession of the password.
They both return to their stations with Commissary leading and they both now take their seat - Commissary sits first.
Princess First Lieutenant, salutes the Captain and says: Princess Captain all Princesses present are in possession of the password. First Lieutenant takes her seat.
Princess Captain: Thank you. Princess First Lieutenant, how many officially constitute a Guild of Heroines of the Templars Crusaders?
Princess First Lieutenant, rises, salutes the Captain, remains standing and says: Fourteen, Princess Captain.
Important: Each Officer must rise and salute when the Princess Captain addresses them.
Princess Captain: Princess First Lieutenant, when of fourteen, of whom composed?
Princess First Lieutenant, standing: Princess Captain, Sir Knight Royal Advisor, Princess First Lieutenant, Princess Second Lieutenant, Princess Treasurer, Princess Secretary, Princess Commissary, Princess Assistant Commissary, Princess Financial Secretary, Princess Chaplain, Princess Inspectress, Princess Cross Bearer, Princess Inside Sentinel and Princess Outside Sentinel.
Princess Captain: Princess First Lieutenant, where are the Sentinels stationed and what are their duties?
Princess First Lieutenant: They are stationed at the inner and outer portals of the Palace. Their duties are respectively, to guard well the approaches to the Palace, and permit none to enter or depart except such as are worthy and have your consent.
Princess Captain: Princess First Lieutenant, where is the Princess Inspectress stationed?
Princess First Lieutenant: She is in the Northwest of the First Lieutenant, opposite of the Princess Cross Bearer.
Princess Captain: Princess Inspectress, what are your duties?
Princess Inspectress, rises, salutes and remains standing: My duties are to properly inspect the members before the Palace opens and to assist the Assistant Commissary with preparing the Candidates for initiation.
Princess Captain: Princess Inspectress, where is the Princess Cross Bearer stationed?
Princess Inspectress: She in Southwest of the Altar.
Princess Captain: Princess Cross Bearer, what are your duties, and what is the color of your banner?
Princess Cross Bearer, rises, salutes and remains standing: My duty is to bear and display our Standard, the colors of which are red and white on one side, and black and white on the other. The red is emblematic of zeal and fervency, the white of purity suggestive of the attributes which should characterize those who bear the title of Heroines or Sir Knights of the Templars Crusade. The black indicates that all who, while on the battlefields, were not fighting for Christ and the Christian Religion were subject to death, destruction and damnation; and the white meant all who were fighting for the cause of Christ, were pure in heart and would have Eternal Life after death. During initiation, I lead the crusade about the Palace.
Princess Captain: Princess Cross Bearer, where is the Princess Chaplain stationed?
Princess Cross Bearer: Northwest of the Princess Captain.
Princess Captain: Princess Chaplain, what are your duties?
Princess Chaplain, rises, salutes and remains standing: My duties are to offer up prayers to our Supreme Grand Commander; to give righteous counsel and admonition to my associate Princesses and Sir Knights, that we may all acquit ourselves as worthy Poor Soldiers of the Cross and Solomon's Temple.
Princess Captain: Princess Chaplain, where is the Princess Commissary stationed?
Princess Chaplain: In the North, Princess Captain.
Princess Captain: Princess Commissary, what are your duties?
Princess Commissary (both Commissary and Assistant Commissary rise, salute and remain standing): My duties with the help of my Assistants is to have supervision of the social side of our work, the preparation and service of all refreshments; to act as floor assistants to the Princess Captain and Princess Lieutenants.
Princess Captain: Princess Commissary, where is the Princess Secretary stationed?
Princess Commissary: In the East and to the left of the Princess Captain.
Princess Captain: Princess Secretary, what are your duties?
Princess Secretary (both Secretary and Financial Secretary rise, salute and remain standing): To record the proceedings of the Guild, collect all monies except for social purposes; turn over all funds collected to the Princess Treasurer; to write all orders, issue all notices; and prepare all official reports to the ... Guild.
Princess Captain: Princess Secretary, where is the Princess Treasurer stationed?
Princess Secretary: In the East and at the right of the Princess Captain.
Princess Captain: Princess Treasurer what are your duties?
Princess Treasurer, rises, salutes and remains standing: To hold in custody all funds and property of the Guild and to disburse its funds when properly authorized.
Princess Captain: Princess Treasurer, where is the Princess Second Lieutenant stationed?
Princess Treasurer: In the South, Princess Captain.
Princess Captain: Princess Second Lieutenant, what are your duties?
Princess Second Lieutenant, rises, salutes and remains standing: To assist the Princess Captain in the discharge of her duties, and in her absence, and that of the Princess First Lieutenant, to assume command of the Guild, to assist in the introduction of candidates; to be responsible for the care and distribution of the paraphernalia; and with the Princess First Lieutenant, act as aide to the Princess Captain whenever desired.
Princess Captain: Princess Second Lieutenant, where is the Princess First Lieutenant stationed?
Princess Second Lieutenant: In the West, Princess Captain.
Princess Captain: Princess First Lieutenant, what are your duties?
Princess First Lieutenant, rises, salutes and remains standing: To assist the Princess Captain in the discharge of her duties; and in the absence of the Princess Captain to assume command of the Guild; to assist in the reception of candidates; and with the Princess Second Lieutenant, to act as aide to the Princess Captain whenever desired.
Princess Captain: Princess First Lieutenant, where is the Royal Advisor stationed and what are his duties?
Princess First Lieutenant (Royal Advisor rises and remains standing): His station is on the right of the Princess Captain in the East. His duties are; to act as official Advisor and Counselor to the Princess Captain and the Guild; to assist in the interpretation of the laws of the order, to preserve unimpaired, the traditions and laws of chivalry; and to prevent departures from regular and established procedure.
Princess Captain: Princess First Lieutenant, where is the Princess Captain stationed and what are her duties?
Princess First Lieutenant: Her station is in the East and at the head of the Guild; her duties are to preside over the meetings and assume command of the Guild; to exact compliance with the constitution and by-laws of the order; to exercise the executive functions of the Guild; to dispense light, maintain-justice, practice charity; foster, inculcate, and promulgate the sublime principles of the order.
Princess Captain: Princess First Lieutenant, what is the object of the Guild of Heroines of the Templars Crusaders?
Princess First Lieutenant: To afford through organization, and opportunity for relatives of Knights Templar to unite for common purposes-auxiliary, military, charitable, recreational, and social; to foster the ideals of chivalric knighthood; to cherish in memory the valor, and heroism of the Ladies and Sir Knights of the Crusaders.
Princess Captain: Princess First Lieutenant, what are some of our duties as Heroines of Templars Crusaders?
Princess First Lieutenant: To exemplify the matchless teachings of chivalry in our lives; to embody the eternal principles of Truth, Honor and Courage in our actions; and to delineate courtesy in our conduct with one another and with humanity; ever exhaling an atmosphere of womanly grace, refinement and dignity as exemplified in the lives and character of the heroines of chivalry.
Princess Captain: That we may be better prepared for our duties; let us lift our voices in song and petition in our opening song.
 
We Are Soldiers
We are soldiers in the army
We got to fight, although we have to cry
We got to hold up the blood stain banner
We got to hold it up until we die

Verse
My mother was a soldier
She had her hand on the gospel plow,
But one day she got old
She couldn't fight anymore
She said, I’ve got to stand here and fight anyhow!
Princess Captain: Princess Commissary open the Sacred Volume to Saint John 20: 17-18 Peter.
Princess Captain gives three raps *** to bring up the entire Guild, and the Guild remain standing.
 
Important Steps:
a) Princess Commissary goes to the Altar to open the Bible
b) Then salute the Princess Captain
c) She leads everyone in reading St. John 20:17-18 and return to her station by way of the Princess Inspectress (in front).
Everyone reads aloud: Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the LORD, and that he had spoken these things unto her.
Princess Captain: We will have prayer by the Chaplain.
The Princess Chaplain goes to the altar and leads the prayer.
Princess Chaplain: Direct us O Lord in all our doing with Thy most gracious favor and further us with Thy continual help that in all our works begun, continued and ended in Thee, we may glorify thy Holy name and finally by thy mercy obtain everlasting life in Christ our Lord.
All Repeat: Amen, Amen, Amen.
She returns to her station to the left by way of the Princess Inspectress (in front).
Princess Captain: Princess Assistant Commissary, inform the Sentinels that the Guild is open for business.
Assistant Princess Commissary advances to the Sentinels and tells them: This Guild is open for business, permit no interruptions.
Assistant Princess Commissary returns to her station; salutes the Princess Captain and says: Your orders have been obeyed, Princess Captain.
Princess Captain: I now declare Guild No. open for business.
Princess Captain gives one rap * with her gavel to seat the Guild.
 
 
Initiation Ceremony
 
Princess Captain: Princess Assistant Commissary, you will retire to the anteroom, and ascertain if there are any candidates in waiting to be initiated into the Order of the Heroines of Templars Crusaders.
Princess Assistant Commissary rises, salutes the Captain and retires to anteroom to see if candidates are waiting. Then returns to the inside door of the palace, salutes the Captain
and says: Princess Captain, I find in waiting … number of candidates who desire to be initiated into our Order.
Princess Captain: Princess Secretary, you will retire and collect their names and fees.
Princess Secretary rises, salutes, retires to ante-room collects names and fees, returns to her station and says: Princess Captain, the names of the candidates and their fees has been collected.
Princess Captain: Princess Assistant Commissary and Princess Inspectress, you will retire to the ante-room and prepare the candidates, after which you will conduct them to the door of the Palace and make an alarm.
Princess Assistant Commissary and Princess Inspectress rise and salute; retire to ante-room, prepare candidates by removing jewelry and valuables and blindfold them. Princess Assistant Commissary conducts candidates to door, followed by Princess Inspectress and gives usual raps *** *** *.
Princess Commissary, rises, salutes and says: Princess Captain, there is an alarm at the door of the Palace.
Princess Captain: Attend the alarm and report the cause to the Princess Captain.
Princess Commissary leaves her station, and gives usual raps *** *** * and opens the door, then boldly asks: Who comes here? Who dare to intrude upon the privacy of our Palace?
Princess Assistant Commissary: One or more of the noble women who dare to enlist in our cause, and join the Heroines of the Templars Crusaders, if found worthy.
Princess Commissary: Are they properly vouched for?
Princess Assistant Commissary: They are.
Princess Commissary: Are they in possession of the Password?
Princess Assistant Commissary: No, but I have it for them.
Princess Commissary: Advance and give it to me.
Princess Assistant Commissary takes two steps up and whispers the Password to her.
Princess Commissary: The password is right. I shall transmit their request to the Princess Captain, and they may await her Orders.
Closes door hard and approach the altar, stops Southwest of Altar, and reports to the Princess Captain.
Princess Commissary: Princess Captain, the alarm was caused by the Princess Assistant Commissary, who has in her charge one or more of those noble women who desire to enlist in our cause and join the Heroines of the Templars Crusaders. They are properly vouched for, and the Princess Assistant Commissary has correctly communicated the pass-word to me.
IMPORTANT: When addressing or receiving orders from a superior officer, Officers should salute with swords, executing "officer's present," or "salute swords." (If not armed with
sword, execute the Saluting/Salutation sign).
Princess Captain: Princess Commissary, it is my orders that they be admitted into our Palace. Their desires are indeed laudable, but as a test of their motives, you will advise them that they must submit to a further examination.
Princess Captain: Princess Cross Bearer, prepare to lead the candidates about the Palace. (She stands, salutes, remove the banner and goes to the door to prepare to lead the Commissary and the candidates three times around the palace.
Princess Commissary goes to door and gives the usual raps *** *** * which are then answered with the same raps by the Outside Sentinel who opens the door: Princess Assistant Commissary, it is the order of the Princess Captain, that these noble women be admitted into our Palace. You will join me in escorting them. Princess Inspectress, you may return to your station.
The Inside and Outside Sentinel open the door to the Palace. Commissary takes position on left of candidates, Princess Assistant Commissary on right of the candidates. Their swords at "Carry" position in their right hand. The candidates' arms placed on the shoulders of the Princess Commissary and the other candidates. Princess Cross Bearer holding the Standard (Banner) is in front leading, they make three circuits (Circles) of the Palace; leaving the Altar on their right each time, while the Princess Commissary reads Ephesians 6:10-18 as they make three circuit about the Palace.
Halt in South at Princess Second Lieutenant's station.
Princess Commissary: Princess Second Lieutenant, I wish to introduce these noble women, who are desirous of enlisting in our cause, and being initiated into our Order.
Princess Second Lieutenant: Who are you, and what is your desire?
Princess Commissary tells the candidates to repeat the following after her: We have the Masonic connections to a Knights Templar Mason through our bloodline. As such we are prompted to solicit your favor in permitting us to enjoy the privileges due the relatives of valiant Knights Templar and members of the Adaptive Rite, by associating ourselves with you in your work of perpetuating the principles of chivalry.
Princess Second Lieutenant: In the initial formation of your desire to become a member you have been doubtless influenced by friends, but in your final conclusion, were you led by your own free choice?
Candidates, prompted by Commissary: We have followed our own voluntary choice.
Princess Second Lieutenant: Were you led by your own free choice?
Candidates, prompted by Commissary: We have followed our own voluntary choice.
Princess Second Lieutenant: It is well. Are you willing to abide by all the rules, regulations, and laws of the Order? And will you be cheerfully governed by the By-Laws of this Guild and the Grand Guild?
Candidates, prompted by Commissary: I will.
Princess Second Lieutenant: Your answers have been satisfactory. I am convinced as to the purity of your motives, and the sincerity of your intentions. You will report to the Princess First Lieutenant for further examination.
Princess Commissary, follows the Cross Bearer to the First Lieutenant station, salutes and says: Princess First Lieutenant, I wish to introduce these noble women, who wish to associate themselves with us in our work of promoting Christian religion and the practice of its virtues.
Princess First Lieutenant: You are to be congratulated upon your worthy aspirations, but before I can further their attainment, I shall require your assent to these questions which all Heroines of the Templars Crusaders have been called upon to answer previous to their advancement. You will place your right hand over your heart, and answer carefully:
Are you actuated by any mercenary or unworthy motives in seeking admission into this Order, founded on the Christian Religion, and the practice of the Christian virtues?
Commissary tells the candidates to repeat after her: I am not.
Princess First Lieutenant: If called upon to draw your sword in a religious cause, would you give preference to the Christian Religion?
Commissary tells the candidates to repeat after her: I would.
Princess First Lieutenant: Does your conscience accuse you of any crime that would prevent or render you unworthy of becoming a member of any institution founded on the Christian religion and the practical virtues?
Commissary tells the candidates to repeat after her: It does not.
Princess First Lieutenant: Your answers are satisfactory. I too am convinced that your motives are pure, and your intentions are sincere. Thus far you seem well fitted to engage in our work of promoting and extending the principles of the Christian religion. You will be conducted to the Princess Captain for your final examination.
Princess Commissary follows the Princess Cross Bearer to the Princess Captain station, salutes the Captain and says: Princess Captain, I wish to present to you, these noble women who wish to enlist in our order. They have satisfied the First and Second Lieutenants if the purity of their motives and the sincerity of their intentions and do now crave your favor to be received as Heroines of the Templars Crusaders, and instructed in its principles and teachings.
Princess Captain: You are to be commended upon your high aspirations. The Order with which you wish to unite is founded upon the Cross of Christ and the Christian Religion; it receives none into its ranks who are unwilling to subscribe to its principles. Before you can proceed further upon your quest for chivalric honors. I must exact a pledge binding you to observe our principles. You will place your right hand over your heart and give serious considerations to these questions.
Will you endeavor to maintain your Honor, by refraining from the performance of anything ignoble, base or sordid; and to act always from lofty motives, and upon a high plane?
Commissary tells the candidates to say: I will.
Princess Captain: Will you endeavor with the help of our Supreme Captain, to always think, speak, act and seek the Truth?
Commissary tells the candidates to say: I will.
Princess Captain: Will you endeavor to meet with Courage any trying problems which come to you in your daily tasks of life?
Commissary tells the candidates to say: I will.
Princess Captain: You will now take upon yourselves the solemn obligation of a Heroine of Templars Crusaders. Princess Commissary, you will conduct the candidates to the Altar, and prepare them for obligation.
Princess Commissary conducts candidates via of the south to the west side of the Altar, right hand on heart, left hand on Bible, Princess Commissary on right, Princess Assistant Commissary on left, Princess Cross Bearer behind candidates.
Members form three sides of hollow square south, west, and north.
Princess Captain and Royal Advisor approach Altar on east side.
Princess Captain gives three raps to bring up Guild and says: Guild ATTENTION, Present swords.
Now speaking to the candidates says: Candidates, you will pronounce your name and repeat after me: I, …, do solemnly promise and vow, that I will always conceal, and never reveal, any part of the mysteries, or secrets of this Order, that I am now about to receive, or in which I may hereafter be instructed.
1 furthermore promise, and vow, that I shall be loyal and obedient to this Guild or to any other Guild with which I may be connected; and that I shall strive to promote its welfare by my moral, financial, and active support.
I furthermore promise and vow that I will protect the good name of the Heroines of the Templars Crusaders, and I will admonish, warn, and protect her as fax as is consistent with Truth and Honor. That I will always aid and assist all Knights on their pilgrimage, and assist their widows and orphans, so far as I may, without material injury to myself or family.
I furthermore promise and vow, that I will always be ready, if called upon, to take up arms to protect the Christian Religion, and the Cross of Christ, so help me God. Amen.
Princess Captain, gives one rap and says: Guild, be seated.
Princess Captain and Royal Advisor return to stations in the East.
Princess Commissary and Princess Cross Bearer, back of the Altar between the Inspectress and Cross Bearer station, go to the north (left, to east, to the west) the candidates are conducted around the Palace once.
During the circuit as they approach the West, clashing of swords is heard in the distance; as they leave the West the noise gets closer, until they reach the North, when the Princess Commissaries are attacked by four or five members acting as Saracens. Clashing of swords as Princess Commissaries are gradually driven back northwest. Princess Cross Bearer Places Standard in the charge of the candidates, who are told to protect and defend the Standard and the Cross.
In the meantime, "Saracens" are pressing with their swords, and demanding "yield", "Surrender," "give us your banner" one "Saracen" break through, demanding the Standard and the Cross. Two or three Heroines rush to the assistance of the Princess Commissary, Princess Cross Bearer, and candidates and drive back "Saracens." Order is restored, Princess Commissaries resume places; Princess Cross Bearer takes Standard back from the candidates, resumes her place at the head, and they complete the circuit to the Princess Second Lieutenant in the South,
Blindfolds are removed.
Princess Commissary, makes sure all blindfolds are removed and says: Princess Second Lieutenant, I present to you these obligated recruits, they have successfully defended the Standard of our Order, and the Cross of Christ against a sudden and violent attack from a detachment of Saracens. Although having been severely tested, they have shown themselves worthy of advancement in our Order. They are before you seeking instruction in the principles of our institution.
Princess Second Lieutenant: Since you have successfully passed through the tests for advancement required into this Order, you are in a position to appreciate some of its Cardinal principles, and I shall give you a brief exposition of one of them, Honor (say the word HONOR in a bold manner). Honor may be defined as: Esteem due, or worth paid; that which rightfully attracts esteem, respect or consideration; a nice sense of what is right, just and true; strict conformity to the duty imposed by conscience, position or privilege. It is synonymous with reverence, veneration, chastity, purity, integrity, and self-respect. In the Medieval period of Chivalry, the crowning virtue was Honor, impelling men to perform deeds of unparalleled heroism, yielding their lives freely in defense of a principle, a cause, an individual or a nation. By it we are today reminded to act nobly and generously; walk circumspectly and maintain our characters unsullied. As a Heroines of the Templars Crusaders, may you ever acquit yourselves with Honor in whatever sphere of life you may live - worthy of our illustrious predecessors, the noble Heroines of Gaza.
Princess Commissary, Assistant Commissary conducts Candidates to Princess First Lieutenant, led by the Princess Cross Bearer.
Princess Commissary: Princess First Lieutenant, I present to you these obligated recruits, who have successfully defended the Standard of our Order, and the Cross of Christ, against a sudden and violent attack from a detachment of Saracens. Having been severely tested, they have shown themselves worthy of advancement in our Order. They are before you seeking further knowledge of the principles of our institution.
Princess First Lieutenant: One advances in our order gradually.
In this next step, I shall endeavor to enlighten you on the qualities and contents of our second great Cardinal Virtues, Truth (say the word TRUTH in a bold manner). Truth may be defined as the quality or state of being true. That is conforming to the fact of reality; that which is true or certain concerning any subject or matter; a certified fact; a fixed law; and established principle. It is also defined as righteousness; as true religion. It is anonymous with fidelity, steadfastness, consistency, reality, verity, fact. The Palmist says, "The paths of the Lord are Mercy and Truth" also "Thy law is the Truth". By this principle we are taught to be true to our-selves, to our neighbor, and to our God; always to endeavor to think the Truth, for out of the abundance of the heart, his mouth speaketh. Then we shall not have much difficulty in speaking and acting the Truth; and finally, as Heroines of the Templars Crusaders; let us ever continue our efforts to apprehend and know the Truth, that it may make us free.
Princess Commissary, led by the Princess Cross Bearer, the Princess Commissary, Assistant Commissary conducts Candidates to Princess Captain in the east: Princess Captain, 1
present to you these noble women, who have withstood successfully all test. They have been instructed in some of the great principles of the Order, and now come seeking further enlightenment on our Cardinal Virtues, that they may be received as Heroines of the Templars Crusaders.
Princess Captain: Thus far you have been examined, obligated, and severely tested. You have been instructed, and I trust deeply impressed with the mighty significance of Honor, and the external value of Truth. I shall at this time impart to you the importance of our third virtue: Courage (say the word COURAGE in a bold manner). Courage may be defined as the quality of mind which enables one to encounter danger and difficulties with firmness and without fear. Its Different aspects may be thus defined: Bravery is daring and Impetuous Courage; fortitude is said to be "Passive Courage"; valor is Courage exhibited in that; gallantry is adventurous Courage, intrepidity is firm, unshaken Courage. It is said that one may show Courage or fortitude in the common pursuits of life as well as in war. Valor, bravery, and gallantry are displayed in the contest of arms. Valor belongs to battle. The Courage of the Templars during the wars of the Crusaders was proverbial and their deeds of valor have linked their names with the gallantry and chivalry of the middle Ages. No less was the Courage and heroism of those noble women whose deeds of valor on the bloody fields of Gaza, we today cherish and perpetuate by the establishment of this Order. As the descendants of those Heroines of Gaza, let us perform with Courage the duties of life as we meet them, bravely fighting the Saracens of sin and unrighteousness as courageously as did the illustrious Heroines of the Templars Crusaders.
Heroines and Sir Knights, ATTENTION! Draw Swords, Present Swords.
Captain escorted by Advisor, descends to Candidates, places blade of sword flatly on left shoulder of Candidates, then on right shoulder, and then upon her head repeating: By the power vested in me as the Princess Captain … Guild No. …, I now create you a Heroine of the Templars Crusaders. Arise Princesses, and with this hand shake the candidates with your right hand receive a cordial welcome into our Order. I shall now present you with this sword, the signet of Honor and fortitude.
This sword when yielded by a noble Heroines of the Templars Crusaders, symbolizes with its hilt, Justice; created the heavens and earth, he found that it needed to be populated. He consulted Justice, Truth, and its blade, Truth; and with its point, Mercy. This trinity of virtues typifies the Holy Trinity.
When God Mercy. They all objected but Mercy, who advocated the cause of man, and pleaded with God to make man. After which God made him, in His own image, and breathed into his nostrils, a living soul and commanded him to go forth and multiply and subdue the earth, which he is doing. As you hear this sword, may it remind you of the sword of the spirit, which is the ward of God: and may you wield it valiantly in the battles of life, so that when you are finally called to report in the Grand Palace above, you may sheath your sword, and report to the Supreme Captain, that you have fought a good fight, have finished the course, and await the "crown of righteousness which the Lord, the Righteous judge shall give you that day.
You will be conducted to the Princess Lieutenants for further honors.
Princess Cross Bearer leads, conducts Candidates to Princess Second Lieutenant
Princess Commissary: Princess Second Lieutenant, the Captain presents her compliments, and request that you confer further honors upon these new Heroines.
Princess Second Lieutenant now present you with the Sash (or Girdle), which is worn by the Heroines of the Templars Crusaders to support their swords and to adorn their uniforms.
As you wear it, may you ever be reminded of its significance. Its color, white is emblematic of purity and suggest to the immaculate purity of the lamb of God – that purity of life and conduct so essential for admission into the Grand Palace above as it girdles your body and supports your sword may it typify and suggest to you that we should gird our loins, and buckle on the sword of the spirit, and that it may be a strong support in our welfare against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of the world. Ever be true to its teachings. You will be conducted to the Princess First Lieutenant.
Princess Commissary: Princess First Lieutenant, the Princess Captain directs that you confer additional honors upon these new Heroines. Princess First Lieutenant: It is fitting the last emblem to be bestowed upon you, should be the Cross, which I Now Present to you. It is the appropriate emblem of our Order and the symbol of faith; the objective of Saracenic hatred, desecration and destruction; the crowning adornment of art, heraldry, and architecture; teaches the lesson of Christian faith, through which we may bear our crosses of life, looking unto the reward of a crown that faded not away. You will report to the Princess Captain and await her further pleasure.
Princess Commissary: Princess Captain, the newly made Heroines have received the honors, and do now await your further pleasure. Conducts Candidates to East.
Princess Captain: The plea which you have made has won a place amongst us, and we shall always welcome you noble and good women into our midst. I shall now, with the assistance of the Princess First Lieutenant, invest you with the secret work of our Order.
Princess First Lieutenant approaches the East, and stands on right of Princess Captain, facing Candidates. Princess Second Lieutenant takes position on left of the Princess Captain, facing Candidates. Candidates stand directly in front of the Princess Captain's station and the altar is behind them.
Princess Captain: Princess First Lieutenant, are you a Heroine of the Templars Crusaders?
Princess First Lieutenant: We have passed though the Judean Mountains, and we saw St. Bernard raise the Beausant.
Princess Captain: What was the color of it?
Princess First Lieutenant: Black and white.
Princess Captain: Why was it black and white?
Princess First Lieutenant: The black told of death, destruction and damnation to the souls of all, who on the battlefield, fought against Christ and the Christian Religion. The white suggested eternal life for all who fought for the cause of Christ and were pure in heart. We shall now proceed to demonstrate the manner in which to give the grip First Lieutenant gives grip to the 2nd Lieutenant.
Princess Second Lieutenant: What is this?
Princess Second Lieutenant: A grip.
Princess First Lieutenant: A grip of what?
Princess Second Lieutenant: A grip of a Heroine of the Templars Crusaders.
Princess First Lieutenant: Will you give it to me?
Princess Second Lieutenant: I will with your assistance.
Princess First Lieutenant: Proceed.
Princess Second Lieutenant: You proceed.
Both Lieutenants gives grip to the candidates, then they say: My Christian Soldier, we greet you, and welcome you into our Guild.
Princess Captain: Have they the sign?
Princess First Lieutenant: They have the sign that was given them after they were taken from the Moslem Temple.
Princess Captain: What was it?
Princess First Lieutenant: It was gives Salutation sign; it alludes to the manner to which the Heroines struck down the Saracens in battle.
Princess Captain: Was there any word accompanying this sign?
Princess First Lieutenant: There was.
Princess Captain: What was it?
Princess First Lieutenant: Save the Cross or Die.
Princess Captain: Was there any other word?
Princess First Lieutenant: There was the Grand Word.
Princess Captain: What was it? Give it to me.
Princess First Lieutenant: Anima est nulla vale tudo nec spes immortalis vitae praeter quam in cruce; which means There is no health for the soul nor hope for eternal life save in the Cross. P.S.O.C. and S.T. which explained, means, Poor Soldiers of Christ and Solomon's Temple.
Princess Captain: The sign is given at the Altar on entering or retiring from the Palace and is also used as voting sign. During Prayer, members execute the uncover, or place left hand on right shoulder. In addressing a superior officer or when addressed by one, execute the "Officer's Present" or "Sword Salute," if not armed with sword, execute the right-hand salute.
Guild: ATTENTION! The Guild will form a hollow square with the candidate in East, Princess Commissary on right, Princess Assistant Commissary on left; Princess Cross Bearer behind; Princess Lieutenants at posts.
 
 
Final Lecture

Royal Advisor: The Order of the Heroines of Templars Crusaders was founded to commemorate the history and traditions of the women of the Crusaders, and the contribution they made to this cause, to perpetuate and foster the high and noble qualities of unparalleled valor and heroism which they displayed on the battle fields of the Orient.
The Second Crusade was fought by France and Germany and consisted upwards of two hundred thousand soldiers. It cannot be said that they were all men, for it is certain that a part of them in the Second Panim, were women. These bands of high born dames were headed by Eleanor of Aquitaine, the consort of Louis 7th, of France. They put on military insignia and appeared in every demonstration, and fought side by side with the Knights Templar, among who were their fathers, husbands, brothers, and sons. These women suffered untold hardships for the sake of Christ and the Cross. When they beheld the Saracens take the Cross, spit upon it and ruthlessly trample it under their feet, they could restrain themselves no longer, but rushed into battle, and taking the swords of the dead Templars, they fought like demons and saved the day. History has failed to award these women, the recognition due them for their part in the Crusades. In our modern age, with its trying problems, and complex situations, women are called upon to exercise all powers of heart and mind to meet and solve them. The home with its cares, petty problems, and varied exactions; the lure of business, politics, and social life; the realms of the higher life as expressed in religion, culture, and refinement: the rearing of children shaping the lives of our boys and girls, the men and women of affairs of tomorrow; the maintenance of our purity, so craftily and violently assailed by the devotees of un- chastely, are problems which challenge the strength of our modern Heroines.
As you traverse the pilgrimage of life, you are assailed by the Saracens of unrighteousness, you will emerge this victorious if you put on the hold armor of God, stand with your loins girded around with Truth, have on the breastplate of Righteousness, and your feet will be shod with the Gospel of Peace. Above all, taking the shield of faith, covered with the helmet of Salvation, wield the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Thus, fortified, you are to wage a successful warfare, rendering yourselves worthy successors of those noble women, who yielded their lives upon the bloody fields of Gaza.
1 now receive and welcome you to the fellowship of Guild, in which you will practice charity, find a life of benevolence and enjoy the Christian love that our emblem, the cross and crown symbolizes.
 
 
Closing Ceremony
 
Princess Captain: Princesses and Sir Knights, has anyone anything further for the good of the Order? Princess Second Lieutenant, you will inform the Sentinels that we about to close … Guild No. … and instruct them to ensure that the Palace is securely guarded.
Princess Second Lieutenant rises, salutes and goes to Princess Inside Sentinel and informs her the Guild is about to close and permit no interruptions, then gives the usual alarm at door of seven raps *** *** * The Outside Sentinel returns same raps and opens the door. The Princess Second Lieutenant informs her the Guild is about to close, then closes the door and returns to her station and says: Princess Captain, your orders have been obeyed and the Guild is securely guarded.
Princess Captain: Thank you. Princesses we have now completed our labors and are about to close the Guild.
Princess Secretary, what are the receipts of the evening?
Princess Secretary rises, salutes the Princess Captain and says: Princess Captain, the receipts are $ ….
Princess Captain: Thank you. Princess First Lieutenant, what are the Cardinals Virtues of the Heroines of Templars Crusaders?
Princess First Lieutenant, rises, salute the Princess Captain and says: Truth, Honor and Courage. These virtues are to characterize our attitude, relations to humanity and our struggles on the battlefield of life.
Princess Captain: It is well. As we are about to dissolve this assembly to resume our accustomed places in the great arena of life, it is necessary that we should be reminded of the Cardinals Virtues of our Order, which are Truth, Honor and Courage; thereby being enabled to carry with us into the trying conditions of our existence a more exalted conception of duty; a broader outlook upon life, a keener sense of responsibility to meet and deal with Honor, Truth and Courage, one with the other, and with humanity; thus rendering ourselves worthy of the Sacred heritage bequeathed to us by the Great Exemplar of all virtue-Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Princess Chaplain please lead us in prayer and the Mizpah.
Captains calls up the Guild with *** raps as the Princess Chaplain goes to the Altar.
Princess Chaplain goes to the Altar and everyone repeats the Mizpah after the Princess Chaplain prays: May the Lord watch between me and thee, while we are absent, one from another. Amen.
Princess Captain: Princess Commissary, close the Sacred Volume.
Princess Commissary goes to the Altar, salutes the Princess Captain; closes the Sacred Volume; returns to her station by way of the Princess Inspectress.
Princess Captain: Princess Assistant Commissary, inform the Sentinels that the Guild is now closed.
Princess Assistant Commissary rises, salutes and goes to Princess Inside Sentinel and informs her the Guild is now closed and permit no interruptions, then gives the usual alarm at door of seven raps *** *** *. The Outside Sentinel returns same raps and opens the door.
The Princess Assistant Commissary informs her the Guild is now closed, then closes the door and returns to her station and says: Princess Captain your orders have been obeyed.
Princess Captain: I now declare … Guild No. … closed in due form.
Princess Captain give one rap * with her gavel.