Ranks & Insignia

Ranks & Insignia

The Jerusalem Cross

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The insignia of the Order is the Jerusalem Cross, a cross enamelled in red with four smaller crosses of the same design in each corner. This ancient symbol has been associated with the Order since the time of the Crusaders and represents the five wounds of Christ. The cross is worn by every member of the Order, with specific variations corresponding to each rank.

The Uniform

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The distinctive uniform of the Order is worn only at liturgical ceremonies and is regarded as church dress.

Knights wear an ivory-white cloak bearing the scarlet Jerusalem Cross, together with a black velvet beret and white gloves. Dames wear an ankle-length black cloak bearing the Jerusalem Cross, together with a black mantilla and white gloves.

Secular clergy wear a white mozzetta bearing the Jerusalem Cross over their choir dress. Members who are professed religious wear the habit of their Institute.

The Ranks of the Order

Members enter the Order at the rank of Knight or Dame and may be promoted over time in recognition of their seniority, commitment, participation and quality of service. The four ranks in ascending order are:

  • Knight (KHS) and Dame (DHS)
  • Knight Commander (KCHS) and Dame Commander (DCHS)
  • Knight Commander with Star (KC*HS) and Dame Commander with Star (DC*HS)
  • Knight Grand Cross (KGCHS) and Dame Grand Cross (DGCHS)

Priests and deacons who are members of the Order hold the designation of Knight Chaplain and may be promoted to Knight Commander in recognition of their service. Bishops enter at the rank of Knight Commander with Star.

Above these ranks sits the Knight and Dame of the Collar, the highest distinction of the Order, conferred on the most eminent personalities of the highest dignity.

Promotion

Promotion to a higher rank is granted by the Cardinal Grand Master, normally on the proposal of the Magistral Delegate, in recognition of a member's seniority, commitment, participation and quality of service. Promotion is not automatic and is not tied to length of membership alone. It reflects the quality and depth of a member's engagement with the life and mission of the Order.