The Five Orders of Christ - Successors of the Knights Templar

Sash of the Aquiline Order of Christ, United
Roman-Ruthenian Church. It is the only Order
of Christ to use a solid blue ribbon, though the
Brazilian order used a red ribbon with blue edges.

By M. Desrosiers

ROME-RUTHENIA 7 August 2024 (NRom)

The history of the Knights Templar is one of the most fascinating and enigmatic chapters in the annals of the Crusades. This elite military order, founded in 1119 AD to protect Christian pilgrims in the Holy Land, captured the imagination of medieval Europe and beyond. Though the Templars were ultimately suppressed in the 14th century, their legacy lives on in the form of five distinct Orders of Christ, each tracing its origins back to the original Knights.

The first of these is the Aquiline Order of Christ of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, the temporal successor to St. Peter the Apostle. Like the other Orders of Christ, this order likewise claims a direct lineage to the Templar knights. It is one of the most rarely-given orders of the Church and is held primarily by the Pontifical and Imperial Household. Unlike the other Orders of Christ, the Aquiline Order merged with the Pontifical Order of the Eagle, so that all Knights of Christ of that order are Bailiffs of the Eagle. 

Examples of the eagle insignia of the Bailiffs of the Eagle,
worn on a red ribbon representing the Order of Christ. 

Parallel to the Aquiline Order is the Order of Christ of the Vatican, which, though currently inactive, is also a successor to the Templars within the Catholic Church. Its dormant status, however, has not diminished the reverence with which it is viewed by many. When given, it was awarded only to reigning Catholic royal heads of state. 

The Portuguese Order of Christ, meanwhile, was established by King Denis I of Portugal in 1319. Divided into two distinct branches – one associated with the exiled House of Orléans-Braganza, and the other with the modern Portuguese republic – the Portuguese Order of Christ continues to play a significant role in the cultural and religious life of the nation.

A fourth Order of Christ can be found in the former Brazilian Empire. Established in 1822 by Emperor Pedro I, this order was modeled after the Portuguese tradition and served as a symbol of the new nation's independence and Catholic heritage. Though the Brazilian Empire has long since passed, the order's legacy endures, with some claiming it to be the rightful inheritor of the Templar mantle in the Americas.

Finally, we come to the Order of Christ of Kongo, a lesser-known but no less intriguing branch of the Templar legacy. Emerging from the ancient Kingdom of Kongo, this order was the result of Portuguese bringing the order there. 

These five Orders of Christ, each with its own unique history and character, stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Knights Templar. Though the original Templar order may have been suppressed, its spirit lives on, inspiring devotion and reverence in those who seek to preserve the ideals of chivalry, faith, and service that defined the Templars' noble mission.

In an age where the world seems increasingly divided, the continued existence of these Orders of Christ serves as a reminder that the timeless values of chivalry – of unity, courage, and constant commitment to a higher purpose – can still inspire and guide us. As we grapple with the challenges of our own time, we would do well to look to the example of these remarkable institutions and the lessons they offer us from the distant past.

The Political Position of the Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia

H.A.H. the Bishop
of Rome-Ruthenia

By Jean DuBois

ROME-RUTHENIA 04 August 2024 (NRom)

From time to time, people wonder about the political position and beliefs of His Apostolic Highness the Prince-Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia. It is an understandable curiosity, given his role and the nature of the Church. However, neither the Prince-Bishop nor the P.I. Household are involved in political parties or any other political processes of any civil state around the world. 

Despite being resident in the USA, the Prince-Bishop's primary affiliation is with the United Roman-Ruthenian Church and as head of state of the Pontifical Imperial State (S.P.I.) - an ethno-religious nation without physical borders that constitutes a state unto itself and which has a special status with the United Nations. He does, however, from time to time exercise his right and duty to comment pastorally on matters involving various nations. Such comments are rooted in the moral and spiritual principles of the Church, not in any partisan political agenda, instead advocating for the values of justice, mercy, and compassion that are at the heart of the Christian faith.

It is important to recognize that the S.P.I. and the United Roman-Ruthenian Church are separate and distinct from the political systems of countries where their members may reside. While members of the Church and its affiliated organizations are free to participate in political processes, such participation does not constitute an endorsement by the Church or the S.P.I. leadership.

The Prince-Bishop and the P.I. Household maintain a position of neutrality when it comes to the partisan politics of civil states. Their focus is on upholding the teachings of the Christian faith and serving the spiritual and humanitarian needs of their community, which spans the globe. This impartial stance is a fundamental part of their identity and mission.

The Prince-Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia: A Living Embodiment of Centuries-Old Tradition

The Most Holy Patriarchal Basilica
of Santa Maria Antiqua in the 
Roman Forum, part of the ancient
legacy of the
United Roman-Ruthenian Church

By M. Desrosiers

ROME-RUTHENIA 22 July 2024 (NRom)

The United Roman-Ruthenian Church is a unique and fascinating religious institution, with a history and tradition that spans centuries. At the heart of the Church's governance is found a humble worker in the vineyard of our Lord, the Supreme Pontiff, known by the traditional title of Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia or Prince-Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia. The office is a semi-hereditary, semi-elective monarchy with succession governed by the laws of the Church.

This title, as defined in the Apostolic Constitution "For the Greater Glory of God," reflects the dual heritage of this church - Orthodox and Old Catholic, coupled with temporal legacy from Christendom. The Prince-Bishop is both the spiritual leader of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church and the religious-temporal leader of the Pontifical Imperial State of Rome-Ruthenia, today a nation without borders. Following the ancient tradition of married clergy, the consort of the Prince-Bishop holds the title of Apostolic Princess of Rome-Ruthenia. Both are known by the style of "Apostolic Highness," in reference to the Apostolic See of Sts. Stephen and Mark and to the Prince-Bishop as temporal successor of St. Peter the Apostle. 

Looking further, we find an extensive list of other specific titles that the Prince-Bishop may hold, reflecting the diverse heritage and responsibilities of the office. These titles are more than just symbolic - they carry real meaning and significance within the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, for the Prince-Bishop is the living embodiment of the history and cultural richness of this institution. It is an integral part of the church's identity and heritage. It connects the present-day Prince-Bishop to a long line of distinguished predecessors.

Ultimately, the general titles of the Pontifical Household are a reflection of the unique and complex history of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church. They are not mere formalities, but rather essential elements of a religious and cultural tradition that has endured for centuries. Whether one sees them as a source of pride or a relic of the past, they remain an integral part of the sacred identity of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church and the office of the Prince-Bishop.

Patriarchal Letter of Rutherford I to the Christian Faithful in the United States of America

from His Apostolic Highness Rutherford I
Prince-Bishop of Rome-Ruthenia

On the Feast of the Holy Mother of God of Kazan

21 July 2024

Dearly beloved sons and daughters in Christ,

As the United States finds itself in the midst of a contentious and divisive election season, I am compelled to address you, the Christian faithful of the United States, with a message of unity, compassion, and steadfast commitment to the teachings of our Lord.

In these turbulent times, when the world is watching the American election with bated breath, it is of the utmost importance that we, no matter where we are in the world, as followers of Christ, define ourselves not by the political affiliations or ideologies that so often seek to divide us, but by the unifying principles of our faith. To say that all people of another political party are evil or against Christ is a grave sin, for it paints with the same broad brush those who may simply have differing perspectives on the complex issues facing society today. Such rhetoric is not only un-Christian, but it also serves to further entrench the divisiveness that has gripped the United States and the world.

Dearly beloved in Christ, we must resist the temptation to make politics our church and a political party our religion, for to do so is to betray the very essence of our faith. Our faith calls us to love our neighbour as ourselves, to seek unity in the midst of conflict, and to see the image of God in all people, regardless of their political leanings.

As Christians, our primary allegiance must be to the Kingdom of God, not to any earthly kingdom or political party. We are called to be a beacon of hope, a voice of reason, and a force for reconciliation in a world that so often seems intent on tearing itself apart. I urge you, dearly beloved in Christ, to resist the siren call of partisan politics and to instead focus your energy and passion on the timeless truths of the Gospel. Let us be known not for our political affiliations, but for our unwavering commitment to the values of love, justice, mercy, and peace that our Lord himself embodied and proclaimed.

In this pivotal moment, when the future of American governance hangs in the balance, let us rise above the fray of partisan bickering and demonstrate to the world the transformative power of a faith that transcends the boundaries of political ideology. Let us be the salt of the earth and the light of the world, shining the radiant love of Christ into the darkest corners of our society. Let us be the peacemakers, the bridge-builders, and the reconcilers, that the brotherhood of nations might be healed and restored.

Dearly beloved in Christ, I call upon you to join me in this sacred mission, to be the change we wish to see in the world, and to be the living embodiment of the Kingdom of God, even in the midst of the chaos and turmoil that surrounds us. May the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always.

_________________

* Names and identity: This article retains the name used at the time of publication. Radislav Romanovich Johnson is the legally registered name of Pope Radislav I of Rome-Ruthenia. His ecclesiastical and public name, Pope Radislav I of Rome-Ruthenia, is formally documented in his United States passport under the United States Department of State’s “known as” endorsement. He previously published and taught under the name Rutherford Johnson. Further biographical information is available on his official biography.

Remembering His Serene Highness Prince Lloyd Douglas Worley, Duke of Maxalla: A Life of Scholarship, Service, and Spirituality

By J. DuBois

GREELEY 11 July 2024 (NRom)

It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of His Serene Highness Prince Lloyd Douglas Worley, Duke of Maxalla, on July 4, 2024, at the age of 77. Prince Lloyd was a man of many talents and accomplishments, leaving an indelible mark on the academic, spiritual, and community realms.

Born in Lafayette, Louisiana, on September 11, 1946, Prince Lloyd's journey was one of intellectual curiosity and devotion to his faith. He earned his Ph.D. in English from Southern Illinois University in 1979 and went on to have a distinguished academic career, serving as a professor at several prestigious universities, including the University of Northern Colorado, where he chaired the Department of English and directed the Composition program.

Prince Lloyd was renowned for his pioneering work in the field of "Neo-Gothicism," a contemporary literary movement that drew inspiration from the rich traditions of the 18th-century Gothic novel. As the editor of the prestigious "Ruthven Literary Bulletin" and a long-standing director of the American Literature Division of the International Association for the Fantastic in the Arts (IAFA), he made significant contributions to the scholarly understanding and appreciation of this genre.

Beyond his academic pursuits, Prince Lloyd was a deeply spiritual individual, serving as an auxiliary bishop and Vicar-General of the Liberal Catholic Church, Province of the USA. He was also the Grand Master of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.

His Apostolic Highness Prince-Bishop Rutherford I of Rome-Ruthenia remembered Prince Lloyd's kindness and dedication with great fondness, stating, "Prince Lloyd was a true servant of Christ, whose compassion and wisdom inspired all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will continue to guide and uplift those who seek to follow in his footsteps."

In addition to his academic and spiritual accomplishments, Prince Lloyd was also a talented magician, known as "Worley the Wizard," and the founder of the SAM 292 chapter in Greeley, Colorado, where he shared his love of the art with fellow enthusiasts.

Prince Lloyd is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, H.S.H. Princess Maydean Mouton Worley, their children, Baroness Erin S. W. Satterlee (husband Rev. Fr. Brian Satterlee) and Baron Albert Worley, and his grandson, Michael Satterlee.

As we bid farewell in this life to this remarkable man, we are reminded of the profound impact he had on the lives of those around him. Prince Lloyd's legacy of scholarship, service, and spiritual devotion will continue to inspire generations to come. May he rest in eternal peace, and may his family find solace in the knowledge that his memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Honoring Excellence: Hernan Alejandro Olano García Appointed as Fellow of the Pontifical Society

By M. Derosiers 

BOGATA 3 July 2024 (NRom)

In honor of a man of remarkable achievements and contributions, HRH Dr. Hernan Alejandro Olano García has been named a Fellow of the Pontifical Society. Prof. Olano's selection as a Fellow follows an early honorary appointment as honorary professor at the Pontifical Georgian College. Additionally, he holds distinguished positions within the academic community, serving as a member of the Superior Council and the Council of the Faculty of the University of La Sabana, as well as being a member of the Academic Council at the University La Gran Colombia.

The Pontifical Society, founded in 1999, is an academic and scientific institution that recognizes and fosters individual achievements across a diverse array of disciplines. Candidates for Fellowship must be nominated by at least two existing Fellows and then undergo an approval process by the Board of Governors. The Society's roster boasts an impressive array of individuals, including royalty, American presidents, international clergy, Olympic athletes, and luminaries from the arts, entertainment, and sciences.

Prof. Olano's appointment as a Fellow of the Pontifical Society is a testament to his exceptional accomplishments and the impact he has had on the world around him. His diverse range of expertise, from academia to civil service, has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, and this latest recognition solidifies his standing as a true leader and visionary in his chosen pursuits. This appointment not only honors the professor's achievements but also serves as a catalyst for his future endeavors, as he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible and inspire others to follow in his footsteps.

Remembrances of Dr. Chev. John Edgar Endicott, President of Woosong University, Air Force Colonel, and Knight Grand Cross of the Pontifical Order of the Eagle

Personal article by H.H. Bishop Rutherford I of Rome-Ruthenia*

3 July 2024

__________________

Dr. John Endicott (1936-2024), an old friend and mentor of more than 20 years, died a week and a half ago. And so I will share some personal remembrances of him.

It was a funny way that he and I met. He was Director of the Center for International Strategy, Technology, and Policy (CISTP) at Georgia Tech while I was in graduate school at the Georgia Tech School of Economics. I was walking down the hall of the main liberal arts building when I passed him. He was wearing a three-piece suit with pocket watch -- and it was like I was looking in the mirror. I said "I have one of those," and he smiled and replied "Good!" We kept walking. The next time I was in the building for class, I also was in a three-piece suit with pocket watch. We soon became friends, with common interests ranging from military as brother officers to international culture. You could easily spot either of us around the Georgia Tech campus - suit, tie, and fedora. (I also discovered later that he spoke Russian, which was definitely a point in his favor.)

Col. John Endicott (left) and Bishop Rutherford I (right)
in the president's office at Woosong University

Meanwhile, around the time I was finishing my PhD at the University of Kentucky's College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment, Endicott had become President of Woosong University and Vice Chancellor of the SolBridge International School of Business in Daejeon, South Korea. He invited me to become a member of the original faculty. He said "You are the first person the new team has decided to hire. So, you will be representing us all and we know you will do absolutely great," so how could I turn it down when he put it like that? I accepted the offer and moved to the Land of the Morning Calm.  

Living in South Korea was a very enjoyable time, and some of my favorite memories include morning coffee regularly in the president's office, he and his wife, Mitsuyo (known to their friends as Mitchie) making pancakes for me at their apartment to go with the maple syrup I brought back as a gift for them from Maine, and going out for miso soup. Endicott and I were also fencing partners. He was rather good with a foil (my preferred blade), and it certainly helped to keep us in shape. He and his wife were also regular participants with the ballroom dance class that I started for faculty, staff, and students on campus (which was part of the recollections he kindly included about me in his memoirs he published several years ago). And, when we founded the St Jude University Chapel, he was one of the regular congregants. In fact, he was often "pressed into service" as the Lector at the liturgy.

Col. Endicott reading the lesson at a liturgy at
the Solbridge International School of Business, with
Bishop Rutherford (then Bishop of the Southwest) to the left.

Endicott and the faculty accomplished quite a lot at Solbridge. One of the most memorable accomplishments was hosting the Limited Nuclear Weapons Free Zone in Northeast Asia conference, which Endicott had founded some years ago. In my role as director of special projects, I helped to organise the event, which hosted government officials and academics from around the world. 

L-R: Col. Endicott, Bishop Rutherford I, and US Ambassador Kelly
at the Limited Nuclear Weapons Free Zone of Northeast Asia
conference held at Solbridge

For a while I was, in addition to my faculty role, effectively Endicott's personal assistant, which was very enjoyable and reminded me of our time back at Georgia Tech. Once I came in late to a meeting of the president's cabinet being held on a particularly hot day, and he was a bit annoyed at me -- until he saw that the reason I was late was that I had been all the way across town at an Italian gelateria that I had recently discovered and brought back gelato for everyone to help combat the oppressive heat. 

Col. Endicott was always proud of his Campbell ancestry,
so he wore his Campbell tartan kilt to culture events
at Solbridge. To keep him company at one of the
 events, I had my royal Stuart kilt shipped to me.

Since we both had long-standing connections to Georgia Tech, one thing I know we were both particularly proud of was establishing the 2+2 dual degree programme between Solbridge and Georgia Tech. He and I, among a number of others, put a lot of work into that effort. Once the programme was set, I ended up teaching mathematics and physics courses in order to help our students meet the requirements for Georgia Tech. That was definitely something I did not expect to be doing as an economics professor! 

Dr. Endicott (back row third from right) and Bishop Johnson (upper left),
along with other key faculty and administrators at the
signing ceremony for the Dual Degree programme
between Georgia Tech and Solbridge

When I left the University (and Korea), the last dinner in Daejeon included my wife and I with John and Michie, as well as the Korean vice-president who had "adopted" me as my "big brother." It was a very pleasant evening, and they presented me with a commendation letter thanking me for my years of service helping to build Solbridge into what it was. (Today Solbridge is a highly ranked international business school, and Woosong university is recognized as a top tier University in Korea.)

John Endicott remains one of the most interesting, distinguished, and memorable people I have ever had the privilege of calling a friend. Unfortunately other obligations prevented me from flying to Georgia for the funeral last week. However, the Divine Liturgy of the Dead will be celebrated here in his memory soon.

_________________

* Names and identity: This article retains the name used at the time of publication. Radislav Romanovich Johnson is the legally registered name of Pope Radislav I of Rome-Ruthenia. His ecclesiastical and public name, Pope Radislav I of Rome-Ruthenia, is formally documented in his United States passport under the United States Department of State’s “known as” endorsement. He previously published and taught under the name Rutherford Johnson. Further biographical information is available on his official biography.