*Includes pictures
*Includes contemporary accounts of the order
*Includes online resources and a bibliography for further reading
"But as for these enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, bring them here and slaughter them before me." - Luke 19:27
For centuries, Christians and Muslims were embroiled in one of the most infamous territorial disputes of all time, viciously and relentlessly battling one another for the Holy Land. In the heart of Jerusalem sat one of the shining jewels of the Christian faith, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Legend has it that this was where their Savior had been buried before his fabled resurrection. What was more, it was said to house the very cross Jesus Christ had died upon. It was for precisely these reasons that fearless pilgrims, near and far, risked their lives and made the treacherous trek to Jerusalem. Of course, this also made the basilica a perfect target, so much so that a powerful company of knights was founded to guard the church and defend its presence in the Promised Land.
Though the Equestrian Knights of the Holy Sepulchre no longer sport the fancy coats of mail or shiny swords of their ancestors, their noble cause lives on, and they continue to aim to protect one of Christianity's holiest sites. Today, there exists 20,000-30,000 Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulchre in over 60 nations around the globe, a figure that is constantly growing. Its members today continue to provide support (now mostly financial and moral) to its main basilica, and they focus on enriching the order's philanthropic operations, as well as "strengthening the practice of Christian life amongst its members." Its members also serve as missionaries, spreading the gospel and the order's mission to both Catholics, non-Catholics, and even the non-religious, all over the world.
The Order of the Holy Sepulchre: The History of the Catholic Order Established during the Crusades for the Promised Land examines the events leading up to its founding, its development throughout the years, its inner workings, and the lives of these famous knights of God. Along with pictures depicting important people, places, and events, you will learn about the Order of the Holy Sepulchre like never before.