Joining the Order means taking on a commitment for life. The commitment to be a witness to the faith, to lead an exemplary Christian life of continuing charity in support of the Christian communities spread from Palestine and Israel to Cyprus and Jordan, and to practise the true charitable commitment of a Christian.

The purpose of joining the Order is to serve the Catholic Church, carrying out acts of charity so as to maintain and increase the Christian presence in the Holy Land. The purpose of joining the Order is not to become a member of a prestigious organisation in order to boast of one's status or acquire personal benefits and advantages.

Usually, though not always, a candidate is put forward by an existing member of the Order. The Magistral Delegate with jurisdiction over New Zealand will assess the candidate. If their attributes are generally considered to meet requirements, the procedures for admission to the Order through the Local Magistral Delegation will begin.

Candidates must be at least 25 years of age and are distinguished by their assiduous practice of Christian faith, by their moral conduct, by their exemplary involvement in the activities of the Church at the parish and diocesan levels, by their willingness to engage in the specific lay apostolate of the Order at the service of the Church, and by their active interest in the needs and problems of the Holy Land.

Before admission, candidates are required to complete a period of formation of not less than one year. This formation period is an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Order's history, spirituality, and mission, and to discern their readiness to take on the lifelong commitment of membership.

Candidates will be required to supply the following documents prior to admission:

• Baptismal Certificate, and also for those married, a certificate of Religious Marriage
• Curriculum vitae with specific dates concerning residence and activities

In addition, the following must be obtained for the Grand Magisterium:

• A letter from the candidate's parish priest
• Letter of endorsement from their Ordinary
• Evidence of merit on behalf of the Holy Land

If you are interested in learning more about joining the Order or would like to begin the process of enquiry, please contact us through our Contact Us page and select Interest in joining the Order from the subject dropdown. A member of the Council will respond to your enquiry.