The York Rite Knights Templar is unique because it is the only place in the York Rite system that the candidate is be required to take a "Christian" oath. The oath does not require one to be a Christian, but only to be willing to defend the Christian faith above all others, so many non-Christians have been welcomed into this rite as well.
The ceremonies of the Knights Templar are conferred in Orders rather than degrees. There are three Orders of Knighthood which are conferred in a Commandery of Knights Templar:
The Knights Templar has three philanthropies: The Knights Templar Eye Foundation, The Knights Templar Educational Foundation, and The Knights Templar Holy Land Pilgrimage. The Eye Foundation is a Great Humanitarian Charity whose purpose is to provide research, surgical treatment and hospitalization to those who suffer from diseases or injury to the eyes. The Educational Foundation gives scholarships to students to complete their last two yearss of College, without regard to race, color, creed, age or Masonic affiliation. The purpose of the Knights Templar Holy Land Pilgrimage is to send a Christian Minister to The Holy Land. Masonic membership is not required and the Minister can be male or female.
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Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America
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