Honouring Tradition, Serving Faith - The Ordre du Temple de Jérusalem in Australia
The Ordre du Temple de Jérusalem (OTJ), under the international leadership of Grand Master General Ronald S. Mangum, stands today as a living, breathing embodiment of the Templar legacy — a Christian chivalric order that is both historically anchored and deeply engaged in the challenges of our modern world.
In Australia, the OTJ has established a firm legal presence. It operates with a valid Australian Business Number (ABN) and is supported by The Knights Templar Foundation Incorporated, a registered not-for-profit entity. Together, these bodies uphold the values of the Order while delivering meaningful works of charity, education, and community service across the nation.
A Legally Recognised and Active Order
The OTJ in Australia is more than just a symbolic organisation. Its legal recognition reflects its commitment to transparency, accountability, and proper governance. As part of a respected international structure, the Australian jurisdiction functions with the same dedication to integrity that defines the global OTJ.
Under General Mangum’s stewardship, the Order has maintained:
Credible governance through clearly defined leadership succession and democratic election processes.
Spiritual authenticity by safeguarding sacred relics, including those of St. Bernard of Clairvaux, the True Cross, and Saints Peter and Paul.
Public engagement via ceremonial events, heritage displays, and charitable initiatives.
Global fellowship through positive relationships with other respected Templar Orders such as OSMTH-MM, SCMOTH OSMTJ 1804, OSTI, and SOTI.
The Role of The Knights Templar Foundation Incorporated
Supporting the mission of the OTJ in Australia is The Knights Templar Foundation Incorporated — a registered incorporated entity dedicated to charitable and philanthropic works. Through this Foundation, the Order is able to:
Deliver direct aid to those in need.
Support faith-based initiatives across communities.
Engage in education and cultural outreach, sharing the rich heritage of the Templars with the wider public.
This partnership ensures that the chivalric ideals of the OTJ are not just preserved in ceremony but are lived out daily through active service.
A Bridge Between Past and Present
The Ordre du Temple de Jérusalem stands in a unique position: deeply rooted in the medieval Templar tradition yet fully relevant to modern society. It draws together members from across the Christian spectrum — Catholic, Protestant, Anglican, and Orthodox — in a spirit of ecumenical fellowship.
In this way, the Order is not only a custodian of history but also a beacon for the future, uniting people in faith, charity, and brotherhood. Its members live by the timeless virtues of honesty, loyalty, perseverance, charity, humility, courage, and honor — applying them to contemporary challenges.
Recognised, Respected, and Relevant
With a strong legal foundation in Australia, supported by its own incorporated charitable arm, and backed by an internationally respected leadership, the OTJ continues to stand as one of the most legitimate and active Templar Orders in the world today.
Its mission is simple yet profound:
To serve Christ by serving others, to defend the faith, and to uphold the principles of Christian chivalry in our time.
Whether through heritage preservation, charitable works, or global fellowship, the OTJ remains a respected presence in the worldwide Templar community — and a powerful force for good here in Australia.
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