Photo with permission from the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem

The spiritual life of members is nourished by the sacraments, daily prayer, and devotion to Our Lady. Though no longer required, many members choose to attend daily Mass, continuing a tradition rooted in earlier Constitutions of the Order. Recitation of the Memorare, a prayer attributed to Saint Bernard of Clairvaux and connected to the Second Crusade, is strongly encouraged as a daily devotion.

Investiture is carried out in a solemn religious ceremony, underscoring the sacred nature of one’s commitment. Pilgrimage to the Holy Land is encouraged as a profound expression of faith. Those who make this journey may be awarded the Pilgrim Shell, the Order’s highest spiritual distinction, bestowed by the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem at the Holy Sepulchre.

Spiritual Commitments and Privileges

Membership in the Order is both a privilege and a mission. It comes with spiritual responsibilities and blessings, including:

• Daily prayer for peace in the Holy Land and for persecuted Christians worldwide

• Encouragement of sacramental life, including regular Mass and confession

• Devotion to Mary, especially through the Memorare

• Plenary indulgences available on:

  • August 18 – Feast of Saint Helena

  • August 21 – Feast of Saint Pius X

  • September 14 – Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

  • October 25 – Feast of Our Lady, Queen of Palestine

• Special graces for those who make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land

• Spiritual unity with the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the global Church

• Masses and prayers offered annually for deceased members of the Order

In keeping with Catholic social teaching, the Order is committed to promoting justice, peace, and the dignity of all people, especially in the Holy Land. The Order remains strictly non-political, with no affiliation to political movements or unauthorized organizations. Members are expected to uphold the teachings of the Church and to refrain from participating in groups contrary to Catholic doctrine or misrepresenting chivalric orders not recognized by the Holy See.