The
Obligations of the Order
The
Order of St Lazarus, in common with
other Orders of Chivalry founded during the Crusades, aims to defend Christianity while
expecting its members to practice the Christian tenets of protecting the weak, helping the
sick, and promoting justice. These important obligations are demanded of members, who, when
admitted to the Order, solemnly undertake, before God and the assembled congregation, to
maintain and defend this code of conduct. Members of the Order of St Lazarus form a
spiritual fraternity and family, sharing and helping each other at all times, and
particularly in times of trouble or grief. The ceremonies of the Vigil and Investiture,
pilgrimages, the wearing the mantle and the cross, are more than a ritualistic maintenance
of an ancient tradition; they are outward symbols of brotherhood and dedication to
Christianity. The pursuit of unity is shown by respecting the other Christian
confessions represented in the Order, each member living as faithfully as possible in
their own communion, whilst working and praying together for true unity - the fruit of
Divine Grace.
Each member is asked to participate
actively, according to his or her ability, in hospitaller work for the sick, disabled,
elderly and those who are in need. This involves the concerned and unostentatious giving of
services and funds, or the supply of medicines, equipment, clothing and other necessities
required by the helpless and needy.
Obligations of Members
There are some financial obligations,
although they are not onerous. It is also expected that every member will
endeavour, where
possible, to support the Grand Priory of England and Wales by attendance at as many of its
principal events as possible. These are:
Grand Priory Investitures
Grand Priory Chapter Meetings
The annual Charity Ball (or
dinner)
An annual Retreat, usually held on
a Saturday in Lent
The December Christmas
Service. (usually held on or near the Feast of St Lazarus)
The Commanderies throughout the country
organise a variety of local events each year which members are expected to support, in
particular the annual church service of their Commandery. All Commandery events are
open to members, some with guests from outside of the order permitted. Members who are
able to devote time to committee work or ceremonial duties are encouraged to offer their
services.
Celebrated Saint’s Days.
Members are encouraged to pray daily for the
well-being and extension of the Order, and to attend church on five Saint's days also to
pray for the Order, and furthermore on those same days to perform some act of charity. The
designated days in England and Wales (to which members should where possible adhere) are:
Saint Basil the Great, 2nd
January
Saint George the
Martyr, 23rd April
Our Lady of Mount
Carmel, 16th July
Saint Michael &
All Angels, 29th September
Saint Lazarus, 17th
December
