Grand Master’s Message
T
his month marks the 700th anniversary of the martyrdom of Jacques de Molay, the 23rd and last Grand Master of the ancient Poor Fellow Soldiers of Christ and the Temple of Solomon, or the Knights Templar. It was on March 18, 1314, that de Molay was burned at the stake on the Ile au Juifs, or the Ile des Templiers, an island in the Seine River in Paris, France near Notre Dame Cathedral. Philip the Fair, King of France, had him burned for recanting his confession that condemned the Templars and stating that his only offence was not being true to the order of Knights Templar. This incredible loyalty to the order is one of the many factors that caused the modern day Masonic Knights Templar to adopt the name and principles of the ancient order. While pausing to acknowledge this day, we remember that we must also be true to our order, principles, and especially to our faith. Next month we will celebrate Easter and have the opportunity to worship together as Templars. Again we will have three Easter Observances: one in Alexandria, Virginia; one in Kansas City, Missouri; and one in Los Angeles, California. Please make your plans now to participate in one of these impressive Easter Services. I guarantee that all those who attend will be impressed and inspired. Information is available on our website at www.knightstemplar.org. The Officers of the Grand Encampment are looking forward to spending time with you and your family at one of the Easter Observances and at the upcoming Annual Conclave of your Grand Commandery. Until then I remain yours in the bonds of the order!
David Dixon Goodwin, GCT Grand Master The future is ours! We must seize the moment! Every Christian Mason should be a Knight Templar. 4
march 2014