A minimum of five years has passed since investiture or the last promotion. General Regulations, Art. 71.

The members may not nominate themselves. Rather the authority to promote resides with the Cardinal Grand Master on a proposal from the Lieutenant. Constitution, Art. 38; General Regulations, Art. 71, § 3 and Appendix 2. The Lieutenant consults the Council and Section leadership in assessing a candidate.

Candidates for promotion must provide “Evidence of Good Services” on a form provided for that purpose.  Incomplete or insufficient information may lead to denial of promotion.

The member has demonstrated continued diligent support of the Order and service to the Church including:

• The member has attended the last five Investiture meetings or has been excused for a serious reason.
• The member has participated in the majority of section events over the past five years.
• The member has made annual charitable contributions each year over the last five years.
• The member is an active and contributing member of the Catholic Church, supporting their parish and diocese.
• The member has been actively involved in the Order’s work, contributing time, talent, and treasure beyond mere seniority.

The member has not previously declined a promotion.

For promotion to Star and Grand Cross, a member has “continued to distinguish themselves by a high degree of participation, care, and charity toward the Holy Land and the life of the Order” and completed an eligible pilgrimage to the Holy Land. See General Regulations, Art. 72, §§ 4 and 5. Those who have received the Pilgrim Shell should notify the Lieutenancy office. In addition, the rank of Grand Cross is reserved to those 50 years of age or older. Gen. Reg. Art. 72, § 5.

If the promotee has married since their investiture or last promotion, a current certified Church marriage certificate is required.