Masonic Knights Templars meet in a Perceptory where the Grades (not Degrees) of the Order are conferred.
Candidates must be in good standing in their Craft Lodge and members in good standing of a Royal Arch Chapter. These must also be Scottish Craft Lodges and Chapters.
The Grades are those of Pilgrim, Esquire and Knight, and reflect the traveller's journey to the Holy Land, first seeking shelter, second offering service and finally serving others as a Knight of the Order. The Knights are collectively called Fratres (Latin for Brothers/Brethren). All three Grades are conferred on a single evening.
The traditional history of the Knights Templar has no connection to any of the traditional histories of the other Masonic Orders and stands alone. The work however teaches a great deal that complements Craft, Chapter and several other of the Orders.
The Preceptory structure is based on military principals, with the Knights and Officers paying due obedience to the Venerable Preceptor who is the head of the Preceptory. Office-bearers change on a two-yearly basis.
The regalia (uniform) of the Order is, at an absolute minimum, a mantle and cap. The official minimum, however, under the recommendations of the Great Priory, is tunic, mantle, cap, sword and belt. Knights can choose to complete the entire uniform with a number of other elements. It is worth noting that there are significant differences between the uniform of a Scottish Knight Templar and that of English, or other jurisdictions.
The meetings begin at 7:30pm and end around 9:15pm, with the company retiring to the Refectory for refreshment.
