Month: July 2025

Championing Sight: The Knights Templar’s Enduring Support for St John Eye Hospital

A Legacy of Compassion and Vision

For over a century, the Knights Templar of England have stood as dedicated supporters of the St John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital Group (SJEHG)—the only charitable provider of expert eye care in East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza. Their partnership is not merely one of historical formality but of active, life-changing commitment that continues to grow in depth and reach.

Raising Awareness, Not Just Funds

The London Support team, established within the Province of London, plays a unique role in this partnership. Unlike a typical fundraising body, its mission is to promote, educate, and disseminate accurate, current information about SJEHG to members across the Knights Templar and beyond. Their efforts equip individuals, Preceptories, and Provinces with the knowledge and resources to connect with and support the hospital’s vital work.

From organizing pilgrimages to providing educational materials and facilitating outreach, London Support serves as the bridge between the charity’s front-line efforts and the Knights who wish to contribute meaningfully.

Transformative Impact Across the Provinces

Through close collaboration with SJEHG staff in both the UK and Jerusalem, the Knights Templar have enabled tangible improvements in patient care. Their support has resulted in:

• Sponsorship of Gaza-based medical staff.
• Funding for essential medical equipment like phaco-emulsifiers and water filtration systems.
• Infrastructure improvements, including fire safety upgrades and patient welfare facilities.
• Support for new outreach clinics in underserved regions.

These achievements are a direct result of the London Support team’s strategy to maintain ongoing communication with SJEHG, provide logistical and material support, and promote hands-on awareness across the Knights Templar network.

A Central Hub for Education and Engagement

At the heart of this initiative is a rich repository of resources—over 100 documents and videos—including surgical data, case studies, and educational booklets. All are designed to empower Knights to become informed advocates of the Hospital’s mission. These materials are available through the London Supporter Network, ensuring that knowledge is accessible, consistent, and up to date.

Looking Ahead: A Shared Mission

The partnership between the Knights Templar and SJEHG reflects a shared vision: a world where no one suffers needlessly from preventable blindness. As Dr. Ahmad Ma’ali, CEO of the Eye Hospital Group, aptly stated, “Your support truly does change lives.”

Through London Support’s tireless work and the generosity of Knights across the UK, sight is being restored, futures are being rebuilt, and hope is being kept alive in one of the world’s most challenging regions.

Knights Templar Hold Annual Service at Throckmorton Chapelry

Members of the Worcestershire Knights Templar gathered for the Centenary Church Service at the Throckmorton Chapelry on Sunday 29^th June 2025 for their annual church service. The event was very well attended and brought together Knights and their partners from across the county to reflect, reconnect, and uphold the long-standing traditions of the Order.

The chapelry, set in the beautiful Worcestershire countryside, provided a fitting setting for the formal proceedings. In a moving display of chivalric tradition, the bodyguard formed an ‘Arch of Steel’ at the chapel entrance—raising their swords aloft in perfect synchrony. Led by the Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. M J Hadden and the Provincial Sub Prior E.Kt. B J Griffin, guests passed beneath the archway as they entered, walking through blades that shimmered in the summer sunlight. The gesture, both symbolic and visually powerful, served as a tribute to the enduring heritage of the Order.

At the entrance to the chapel, the bodyguard formed an Arch of Steel by raising their swords overhead, allowing guests to walk beneath as they entered. The display marked the start of the service and honoured the ceremonial customs of the Order.

The Service

The very excellent service was conducted by Rev. Cannon Sarah Dangerfield, Parish Priest of Bishampton & Throckmorton and included readings, prayers, and hymns, with Knights and their partners seated together. It was a moment for reflection, unity, and a reaffirmation of shared values. Songs sung included the Hymn of the Knights of Malta, Paise my Soul the King of Heaven, Christ is our Cornerstone, Let the World in Every Corner Sing and Father, Hear the Prayer we Offer. Rev. Cannon Sarah Dangerfield took the congregation through the prayers – for peace across the world, The Work of the St. John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital, for the Sick and the Suffering, The Faithful Departed, Our Orders of all Knights Templar, Ourselves in Pilgrimage and the Collect for St. Peter & St. Paul, Apostles.

A collection took place with the proceeds going to the St. John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital. The gathering ended with a blessing, the traditional Templar Hymn and the National Anthem.

Tea and Cake in the Afternoon Sun

After the service, guests were able to walk across the fields to the village hall where they enjoyed an afternoon of tea and cake. The weather held out, with clear skies and warm sunshine adding to the relaxed atmosphere. Tables were set up outdoors, and guests were served a selection of cakes, scones, and drinks which were most excellent.

The afternoon was a chance for members to catch up, meet new faces, and spend time together in a more informal setting. Organisers were thanked for their efforts, and many remarked on how enjoyable and well-run the event was. As people began to head home, there was a shared sense of appreciation for both the tradition and community that the annual service continues to uphold.

The Provincial Prior, R.E.Kt. M J Hadden, extends his thanks and appreciation to everyone who helped to make the day possible and such a success – with particular thanks to Rev. Cannon Sarah Dangerfield for her wonderful service and insights into the difficult conditions surrounding the St. John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital, the Provincial Bodyguard, the organist, and the ladies who organised the afternoon refreshments.