Philanthropy

Knight Templars have three primary focuses of Philanthropy.

Knights Templar Educational FoundationKnights Templar Educational Foundation

  • The first is the Knights Templar Educational Foundation, which was started in 1922.
    • In State of Maryland, this program is handled by the Grand Commandery of Maryland.
    • All applications for scholarships are considered, without regard to age, race, religion, national origin, gender, of Masonic ties or affiliations. These scholarships are not “grants in aid” but are open to all students regardless of their financial circumstances.
      • ** A point to make here, is that this isn’t just a scholarship for “graduating Seniors”, nor is it just for “college”.
      • These scholarships are for students accepted or enrolled in a program leading to an associate, bachelor, master, doctoral, or professional degree, or certified technical or vocational programs.
    • See the Educational Foundation page of the Grand Commandery of Maryland for more information.

Knights Templar Eye FoundationThe Knights Templar Eye Foundation

  • The second is The Knights Templar Eye Foundation, which you will see frequently abbreviated as KTEF, and was incorporated in 1956.
    • As of 2021, all members of Maryland Commandery No. 1, were Life Sponsors of the KTEF.
    • A Life Sponsor is a Sir Knight who was contributed at least $30 to the KTEF.
    • We ask all new Sir Knights to become Life Sponsors on their first yearly dues notice.
    • As a Commandery we also try to ask for donations yearly for the KTEF such that we average $10 a member in donations, each year.

Knights Templar Holy Land PilgrimageKnights Templar Holy Land Pilgrimage

  • The third is the Knights Templar Holy Land Pilgrimage. The charitable aspect of this is the Commandery can select and pay to send credentialed Christian Ministers on a Biblical study and historical / cultural immersion experience, to the Holy Land, who would not have the opportunity otherwise.
    • Sir Knights, their Ladies, friends, and guests also have the opportunity to participate in the “In the Footsteps of Jesus Holy Land Pilgrimage” tour at their own expense.

Maryland Commandery No. 1 also has the ability to partake in any local charitable activities as its members approve.