Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia ...NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROPOSED, that the Grand Commandery commission the design, manufacture and purchase of jewels of suitable design

Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia

Propositions and Resolutions

Stated Grand Conclave 2020

June 27, 2020

PROPOSITION No. 1 PROPOSE TO RETIRE THE GRAND COMMANDERY ELECTIVE OFFICER JEWELS AND

ACQUIRE SUITABLE JEWELS BEFITTING THE DIGNITY OF THE OFFICES

PROPOSITION No. 2 RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH THE GRAND COMMADERY MERITORIUS SERVICE MEDAL

RESOLUTION No. 1 RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTION 7 (D)

OF THE CONSTITUTION AND STATUTES

GRAND COMMANDERY OF KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF VIRGINIA

REGARDING PERMANENT LIFE MEMBERSHIP

RESOLUTION No. 2 RESOLUTION ON COMMITTEE OF PAST GRAND COMMANDERS

RESOLUTION No. 3A RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTION 12 AND SECTION 17



REGARDING SIR KNIGHT E. CAREY KNIGHT FUND

RESOLUTION No. 3B RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTION 12 AND SECTION 17




RESOLUTION No. 4 RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTIONS 12 AND 17 OF THE CONSTITUTION AND STATUTES

GRAND COMMANDERY OF KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF VIRGINIA REGARDING ESTABLISHING A FISCAL MANAGEMENT ESCROW ACCOUNT

RESOLUTION No. 5 RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTION 17 (C)



REGARDING PER CAPITA DUES

RESOLUTION No. 6 RESOLUTION ON PERMANENT FUND

RESOLUTION No. 7 RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH THE MEMBERSHIP COMMIITTEE AS A STANDING COMMITTEE OF THE GRAND COMMANDERY OF KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF VIRGINIA

RESOLUTION No. 8 CONVERTING THE DRILL TEAM COMMITTEE FROM A SPECIAL COMMITTEE TO A STANDING COMMITTEE OF THE GRAND COMMANDERY OF KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF

VIRGINIA

RESOLUTION No. 9 RESOLUTION ON MAKEUP OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE

RESOLUTION No. 10 RESOLUTION TO REQUIRE A BALANCE BUDGET

RESOLUTION No. 11 RESOLUTION TO CHANGE HOW REVENUE IS DERIVED

RESOLUTION No. 12 RESOLUTION TO CLARIFY WHEN A MEMBER IS IN ARREARS FOR ONE YEARS DUES

RESOLUTION No. 13 RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTION 32(B)(9) OF THE CONSTITUTION AND STATUTES OF THE GRAND COMMANDERY OF KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF VIRGINIA

RESOLUTION No. 14 RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE VIRGINIA MANUAL OF TACTICS AND ASYLUM CEREMONIES

GRAND COMMANDERY OF KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF VIRGINIA PER COMMITTEE ON WORK (RITUAL AND TACTICS)

RESOLUTION No. 15 RESOLUTION TO STANDARDIZE WARDER TACTICS

RESOLUTION No. 16 RESOLUTION TO ADD “CALLING OFF” AND “CALLING ON” TO THE VIRGINIA TACTICS MANUAL

PROPOSITION No. 1

PROPOSE TO RETIRE THE GRAND COMMANDERY ELECTIVE OFFICER JEWELS AND ACQUIRE

SUITABLE JEWELS BEFITTING THE DIGNITY OF THE OFFICES WHEREAS, the jewels worn by the officers of the Grand Commandery of Virginia were commissioned by the Grand Commandery to mimic the jewel worn by the Right Eminent Grand Commander in lesser form; and WHEREAS, these jewels were crafted by hand from precious metals and stones to replace the jewels worn by the Grand Commandery Officers before 1960; and WHEREAS, the jewels, over time, have appreciated in value and become irreplaceable as historical pieces of the Grand Commandery of Virginia; and WHEREAS, these jewels, in the fullness of time and use require regular repair from a master jeweler at the expenditure of Grand Commandery Funds for said repairs; and WHEREAS, it would be prudent to retire the jewels from regular use and acquire a suitable replacement jewels for daily use by the Grand Commandery Officers. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROPOSED, that the Grand Commandery commission the design, manufacture and purchase of jewels of suitable design to be worn by the Grand Commandery Officers during their term of office, and to be transferred to their successors; and IT BE FURTHER PROPOSED, that the Grand Commandery permanently retire the current officer jewels as the replacements are available for use by the Grand Commandery Officers. REASON: The Grand Commandery Officer jewels have appreciated to a monetary and historical value where costs to maintain and repair the jewels can be excessive to the Grand Commandery. Furthermore, there is no reasonable way that they could be replaced if lost or stolen. Prudence dictates that they be retired from daily use. A suitable jewel befitting the dignity of the officer of the Grand Commandery can be acquired at a reasonable cost, and if this Proposition is adopted, the Grand Commander should appoint a committee to design replacement jewels and to acquire them for the Grand Commandery before the next Stated Grand Conclave. Respectfully submitted, Sir Knight Michael Thomas Huff

Past Commander of Old Dominion Commandery No. 11

PROPOSITION No. 2

RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH THE GRAND COMMADERY MERITORIUS SERVICE MEDAL

WHEREAS, the Knight Templar Cross of Honor is awarded by the Grand Master of the Grand

Encampment of Knights Templar, U.S.A. and is the only medal awarded each to a Knight Templar in

Virginia as recognition of the great contribution that the Sir Knight has been to the Knights Templar and

only one such award is make each year in Virginia.

AND WHEREAS, the Charles A. Grice Merit Award was established in 1984 by Sir Knight George Benge

Yeates, Right Eminent Grand Commander, and approved that year by Grand Encampment. The Grice

Merit Award is awarded to a Sir Knight who has made significant contributions to his Commandery over

a two-year period in one of the areas of ritual, administration, Eye Foundation, or the Holy Land

Pilgrimage. Up to two awards may be made each year at the discretion of the Grand Commander.

AND WHEREAS, Grand Commandery Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) was established in July

2019 by the Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar, U.S.A. Only one (1) Grand

Commandery Meritorious Service Medal per Grand Commandery may be awarded in a calendar

year and is available from the Grand Encampment Knight Templar Grand Office.

AND WHEREAS, there are many Sir Knights in Virginia each year who are diligent, loyal and hard-

working Knights Templar and who also are deserving of big singled out and recognized for exceptional

and meritorious service rendered to Templar Masonry, far beyond the call of duty or service expected of

an officer or member. In deciding upon the award, precedents shall be entirely ignored, and each case

shall be decided upon its own unusual merits. No posthumous award shall be made, and no present or

past elected Grand Officer of the Grand Commandery of Virginia shall be eligible for the award.

NOW IT BE RESOLVED, the Grand Commander of Knights Templar of Virginia is hereby authorized to

award one (1) Grand Commandery Meritorious Service Medal to those Sir Knights of the

Knights Templar in Virginia who have made worthwhile and laudable constitutions to the cause

of Templar Masonry in Virginia during each Grand Commandery year. The award will be worn

the on the left breast to the right of the Malta Cross.

Respectfully submitted, Sir Knight Benjamin F. Hill, KTCH Past Commander, Portsmouth Commandry No. 5

Right Eminent Grand Commander

RESOLUTION No. 1

RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTION 7 (D)



REGARDING PERMANENT LIFE MEMBERSHIP

BE IT RESOLVED that Section 7 (D), which reads as follows:

(D) METHOD OF PAYMENT. The Life Membership fee from a participant shall be paid to the Recorder of the Commandery, who will make a record thereof and promptly forward the fee to the Grand Recorder. A Life Membership application shall be accepted anytime during the year. A completed application, on the prescribed form, and a photocopy of the current dues card must accompany the fee. (Amended 04/30/2016) The prescribed form may be obtained from the Grand Commandery website or the Grand Recorder. (Amended 05/05/2018)

BE AMEMDED to read as follows:

(D) METHOD OF PAYMENT. The Life Membership fee from a participant shall be paid to the Recorder of the Commandery, who will make a record thereof and promptly forward the fee to the Grand Recorder. A Life Membership application shall be accepted anytime during the year. A completed application, on the prescribed form, and a photocopy of the current dues card must accompany the fee. (Amended 04/30/2016) The prescribed form may be obtained from the Grand Commandery website or the Grand Recorder. (Amended 05/05/2018) The Grand Recorder will maintain the master list of members of this program and provide data as appropriate to the Trustees and others, when required.

REASON:

To clarify who is responsible to maintain the member records of the Permanent Life Membership Fund.

Respectfully submitted, Major G. Stephenson, III Past Commander, Portsmouth Commandry No. 5 Eminent Grand Recorder of Virginia

RESOLUTION No. 2

RESOLUTION ON COMMITTEE OF PAST GRAND COMMANDERS

Whereas Section 8. A. 7(D) of the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia states: (d) The Grand Commander shall submit at least thirty days before the date of the Stated Conclave, to the Chairman of the Committee appointed by the Grand Commander, a copy of his report covering his decisions, recommendations, dispensations, and his other actions during the year. The Committee will render their opinion and recommendations as they may deem appropriate. And whereas all of the Past Grand Commanders of the Grand Commandery of Virginia as a group have the most collective experience to be able to determine the performance of the current Grand Commander and render an opinion thereof; And whereas Section 41 of the Constitution, Statutes, Disciplinary Rules, Standing Resolutions, Ceremonies, Forms and Approved Decisions of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America states in part: “ that The Grand Commander has sole authority to appoint all Grand Commandery committees and all offices not made elective. (1955, p. 83 & 235, No. 10, Gordon)” And whereas “. . . the Committee appointed by the Grand Commander” is not delineated a “Standing Committee of the Grand Commandery” as specified in Section 13 of the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of Virginia; Therefore, be it resolved that Section 8. A. F(D) of the Constitutions and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of Virginia be amended to read: (Changes in Bold Italics) (d) The Grand Commander shall submit, at least thirty days before the date of the Stated Conclave, to the Chairman of a Committee comprised of all Past Grand Commanders of Virginia, a copy of his report covering his decisions, recommendations, dispensations, and his other actions during the year. The Chairman of the Committee will be the most senior Past Grand Commander of Virginia by tenure, present at each stated conclave of the Grand Commandery of Virginia. No person may be a member of a Committee of Past Grand Commanders unless he has completed a year as Grand Commander and has been certified as such by Grand Encampment. The Senior Past Grand Commander present will render the Committee’s opinion and recommendations as they may deem appropriate. REASON: The Past Grand Commanders having served in that capacity, or in a higher capacity, have the most experience in the performance of the duties of the Grand Commander. All of the Past Grand Commanders should provide their opinion collectively on the performance of the Grand Commander, and not a subset of the Past Grand Commanders who are most friendly to the Grand Commander and may not provide an unbiased and comprehensive evaluation of the Grand Commander’s actions during the past Chivalric year.

This would also align the Grand Commandery with both the Grand Lodge of Virginia, AF&AM and the Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons in Virginia, whose Past Grand Presiding Officers together render their collective opinion and evaluation on the actions of the Grand Master of Masons and the Grand High Priest, respectively. Respectfully submitted, James B. Bartley, Past Commander Piedmont Commandery No. 26 Edwin R. Carpenter, Jr., Past Commander Piedmont Commandery No. 26 Right Eminent Past Grand Commander of Virginia Right Eminent Past Department Commander, Northeast Department Jay L. Cotner, Past Commander Charlottesville Commandery No. 3 Right Eminent Past Grand Commander of Virginia William T. Hargrove, Past Commander Portsmouth Commandery No. 5 Right Eminent Past Grand Commander of Virginia

RESOLUTION No. 3A

RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTION 12 AND SECTION 17




WHEREAS, the Constitutions and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia,

Section 12, which reads as follows:

Section 12. PERMANENT FUND

There is established a Permanent Fund, consisting initially of the funds and securities held presently by the Trustees, and which may be added to from time to time as Grand Commandery may think fit; the purpose of this fund being to provide a source of annual income to supplement Per Capita taxes together with any other income available to the Grand Commandery, and to handle such emergencies as may arise. This fund shall include the General Fund, the Permanent Life Membership Fund, the Holy Land Pilgrimage Fund, the Baldwin Brown Fund, the Museum Fund, and such other funds as the Trustees may deem necessary to establish. Each of these funds shall be established as separate accounts. (A) The officers of the Permanent Fund shall be the three Trustees elected respectively for three

years, two years and one year; the one-year member acting as Chairman; thereafter, one trustee to be elected each year for three years.

(B) Investments shall be made in the name of the Permanent Fund of the Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Virginia. (C) The Trustees shall make a written report to the Grand Commandery at each Stated

Conclave in such detail as is necessary to explain their actions and to provide information required for accurate reporting to State and Federal agencies.

(D) The Trustees shall be bonded with a Fidelity Company in an amount not less than

that equal to the total amount of the securities and other assets held in their custody. (E) The Trustees shall cause no distributions to be made from the Permanent Fund

other than payments to Commanderies for Permanent Life Memberships, annual payments from the Holy Land Pilgrimage Fund to send Ministers to the Holy Land annual income from the Baldwin Brown Fund for purposes included in the Annual Budget, or, between Stated Conclaves as two (2) Trustees together with the Grand Commander may determine as necessary. No changes will be made in the investments without the authority of the Grand Commandery, or in the interim, with the concurrence of two (2) Trustees and the Grand Commander for good and sufficient reason as these officers may think fit. Such changes will be reported at the next Stated Conclave and submitted to a confirmation vote; and



Section 17. REVENUE -- HOW DERIVED

The revenue of the Grand Commandery shall be derived from the following sources:

(A) For every dispensation or charter for a new Commandery, to be paid before the same is issued and no charge to be paid for charter when preceded by dispensation: one hundred dollars ($100.00).

(B) For every Sir Knight elected by a Commandery in this jurisdiction and receiving all the Orders of Knighthood: one hundred dollars ($100.00).

(C) The per capita dues for every member of all Constituent Commanderies holding allegiance to the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia shall be as follows:

Fifteen Dollars ($15.00) except for those members having previously purchased Life Membership in perpetuity and the same having been deposited for a period of twelve months, beginning January 1st of each year.

The per capita dues stated above, effective in the respective years for the Grand Commandery of Virginia does not include any per capita levies by the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America.

(D) All the earnings on the current funds held for use of the York Rite Knight Templar Museum shall be directed annually to the operating budget of the Grand Commandery and the operating budget shall have annually an expense item of at least $300.00 for the expenses of the Museum.

(E) The interest upon deposits and investments of the operating accounts and investments of the Grand Commandery.

(F) The fees and dues, or either, of a Constituent Commandery may be reduced or waived for any Templar year by the Grand Commandery in Stated Conclave.; and

WHEREAS, Sir Knight E. Carey Knight left a trust in the amount of two-hundred-eighty thousand dollars

($280,000.00) to the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia; and

WHEREAS, the Trustees of the Permanent Fund have deposited the monies into a E. Carey Knight Fund

account, recommending that the Grand Commander appoint an ad hoc committee to develop a plan for

the use of those funds, and that the several options be brought to the voting delegates at the 2020

Stated Grand Conclave; and

WHEREAS, the monies deposited in the E. Carey Knight Fund account have earned sixty-six thousand

dollars ($66.000) or more; and

WHEREAS, the Committee on Long-Range Planning, a Standing Committee’s mixed Grand Officer and

Constituent membership is critical to developing effective business goals, strategies, and processes for

Grand Commandery, was tasked to recommend how best to effectively use the funds accordance with

Grand Commandery’s Vision, Mission, Goals and Objectives; and

WHEREAS, the Committee on Long-Range Planning recommended the following options for the E. Carey

Knight Fund:

The monies to remain in the Fund as Principle $280,000.00

Distribute future annual earning income as:

Holy Land Pilgrimage 25%

DeMolay International 5%

Job’s Daughters International 5%

International Order of Rainbow for Girls 5%

Masonic Home of Virginia 5%

George Washington Masonic National Memorial 5%

Operating Account 25%

Retained in the Fund to grow the Fund 25%

Total Distribution 100%

The earnings to date should be distributed as:

Bicentennial Fund $ 30,000.00

Of the remaining earnings should be distributed as:








AND IT BE RESOLVED that two-hundred-eighty thousand dollars ($280,000.00) remain in the E. Carey

Knight Fund as principal.

AND IT BE RESOLVED that any current earnings from the E. Carey Knight Fund to be transferred to the

Grand Treasured Operating Account and distributed as follows:


Of the remaining earnings should be distributed as:








AND IT BE RESOLVED that Section 12 read as follows:

There is established a Permanent Fund, consisting initially of the funds and securities held by the

Trustees, and which may be added to from time to time as Grand Commandery may think fit; the

purpose of this fund being to provide a source of annual income to supplement Per Capita taxes

together with any other income available to the Grand Commandery, and to handle such emergences as

may arise. That fund shall include the General Fund, the Permanent Life Membership Fund, the Holy

Land Pilgrimage Fund, the Baldwin Brown Fund, the E. Carey Knight Fund, and such other funds as the

Trustees may deem necessary to establish. Each of these funds shall be established as separate

accounts.

(A) The officers of the Permanent Fund shall be three Trustees elected respectively for three years, two

years and one years: the one-year member acting as Chairman; thereafter, one trustee to be elected

each year for three years.

(B) Investments shall be made in the name of the Permanent Fund of the Grand Commandery of

Knights Templar of Virginia.

(C) The Trustees shall make a written report to the Grand Commandery at east each Stated Conclave in

such detail as is necessary to explain their actions and to provide information required for accurate

reporting to State and Federal agencies.

(D) The Trustees hall be bonded with a Fidelity Company in an amount not less than that equal to the

total amount of the securities and other assets held in their custody.

(E) The Trustees shall cause no distributions to be made from the Permanent Fund other that payments

to Commanderies for Permanent Life Memberships, annual payments to the Holy Land Pilgrimage

Fund to send Ministers to the Holy Land, annual income from the Baldwin Brown Fund for purposes

included in the Annual Budget, or, between Stated Conclaves as two (2) Trustees together with the

Grand Commander may determine as necessary. No changes will be made in the investments

without the authority of the Grand Commandery, or in the interim, with the concurrence of two (2)

Trustees and the Grand Commander for good and enough reason as these officers may think fit.

Such changes will be reported at the next Stated Conclave and submitted to a confirmation vote.

AND IT BE RESOLVED that Section 17 (G) read as follows:

(G) The Grand Recorder shall have charge of administration and practical operation of the Sir Knight

E. Carey Knight Fund and maintaining the records of all transactions. All annual earnings shall be

transferred to the Grand Treasurer and distributed by invoice by the Grand Recorder as follows:










REASON: Remaining two-hundred-fifty-thousand dollars ($250,000.00) in the fund as principle, transferring thirty-thousand dollars ($30,000.00) of current earnings to the Bicentennial Fund, and transferring the remaining current earnings to the Operation Account will meet the E. Carey Knight family’s desires and has their representatives approval, especially if the donations are distributed in the name of E. Carey Knight. Future earnings distributed as Section 17 (G) of the Constitution and Statutes will allow efficient use of the E. Carey Knight’s trust and be a memorial to Sir Knight E. Carey Knight. Respectfully submitted, Sir Knight Benjamin F. Hill, KTCH Past Commander, Portsmouth Commandry No. 5

Right Eminent Grand Commander of Virginia

Sir Knight John Jeffrey McClelland, KCT

Past Commander, Penn-Neck Commandery No. 33

& Chairman, Long Range Planning Committee

RESOLUTION No. 3B

RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTION 12 AND SECTION 17







There is established a Permanent Fund, consisting initially of the funds and securities held presently by the Trustees, and which may be added to from time to time as Grand Commandery may think fit; the purpose of this fund being to provide a source of annual income to supplement Per Capita taxes together with any other income available to the Grand Commandery, and to handle such emergencies as may arise. This fund shall include the General Fund, the Permanent Life Membership Fund, the Holy Land Pilgrimage Fund, the Baldwin Brown Fund, the Museum Fund, and such other funds as the Trustees may deem necessary to establish. Each of these funds shall be established as separate accounts. (B) The officers of the Permanent Fund shall be the three Trustees elected respectively for three




(F) The Trustees shall be bonded with a Fidelity Company in an amount not less than

that equal to the total amount of the securities and other assets held in their custody. (G) The Trustees shall cause no distributions to be made from the Permanent Fund

other than payments to Commanderies for Permanent Life Memberships, annual payments from the Holy Land Pilgrimage Fund to send Ministers to the Holy Land annual income from the Baldwin Brown Fund for purposes included in the Annual Budget, or, between Stated Conclaves as two (2) Trustees together with the Grand Commander may determine as necessary. No changes will be made in the investments without the authority of the Grand Commandery, or in the interim, with the concurrence of two (2) Trustees and the Grand Commander for good and sufficient reason as these officers may think fit. Such changes will be reported at the next Stated Conclave and submitted to a confirmation vote; and













WHEREAS, Sir Knight E. Carey Knight left a trust in the amount of two-hundred-eighty thousand dollars

($280,000.00) to the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia; and

WHEREAS, the Trustees of the Permanent Fund have deposited the monies into a E. Carey Knight Fund

account, recommending that the Grand Commander appoint an ad hoc committee to develop a plan for

the use of those funds, and that the several options be brought to the voting delegates at the 2020

Stated Grand Conclave; and

WHEREAS, the monies deposited in the E. Carey Knight Fund account have earned sixty-six thousand

dollars ($66.000) or more; and

WHEREAS, the Committee on Long-Range Planning, a Standing Committee’s mixed Grand Officer and

Constituent membership is critical to developing effective business goals, strategies, and processes for

Grand Commandery, was tasked to recommend how best to effectively use the funds accordance with

Grand Commandery’s Vision, Mission, Goals and Objectives; and

WHEREAS, the Committee on Long-Range Planning recommended the following options for the E. Carey

Knight Fund:

The monies to remain in the Fund as Principle $280,000.00

Distribute future annual earning income as:



Retained in the E. Cary Knight Fund for Fund Growth 25%

The earnings to date should be distributed as:

Operating Account $ 60,000.00

AND IT BE RESOLVED that two-hundred-eighty thousand dollars ($280,000.00) remain in the E. Carey

Knight Fund as principal.

AND IT BE RESOLVED that any current earnings from the E. Carey Knight Fund to be transferred to the

Grand Treasured Operating Account and distributed as follows:


Holy Land Pilgrimage $ 7,500.00

Operating Account $ 22.500.00

$ 60,000.00

AND IT BE RESOLVED that Section 12 read as follows:

There is established a Permanent Fund, consisting initially of the funds and securities held by the

Trustees, and which may be added to from time to time as Grand Commandery may think fit; the

purpose of this fund being to provide a source of annual income to supplement Per Capita taxes

together with any other income available to the Grand Commandery, and to handle such emergences as

may arise. That fund shall include the General Fund, the Permanent Life Membership Fund, the Holy

Land Pilgrimage Fund, the Baldwin Brown Fund, the E. Carey Knight Fund, and such other funds as the

Trustees may deem necessary to establish. Each of these funds shall be established as separate

accounts.

(F) The officers of the Permanent Fund shall be three Trustees elected respectively for three years, two

years and one years: the one-year member acting as Chairman; thereafter, one trustee to be elected

each year for three years.

(G) Investments shall be made in the name of the Permanent Fund of the Grand Commandery of

Knights Templar of Virginia.

(H) The Trustees shall make a written report to the Grand Commandery at east each Stated Conclave in

such detail as is necessary to explain their actions and to provide information required for accurate

reporting to State and Federal agencies.

(I) The Trustees hall be bonded with a Fidelity Company in an amount not less than that equal to the

total amount of the securities and other assets held in their custody.

(J) The Trustees shall cause no distributions to be made from the Permanent Fund other that payments

to Commanderies for Permanent Life Memberships, annual payments to the Holy Land Pilgrimage

Fund to send Ministers to the Holy Land, annual income from the Baldwin Brown Fund for purposes

included in the Annual Budget, or, between Stated Conclaves as two (2) Trustees together with the

Grand Commander may determine as necessary. No changes will be made in the investments

without the authority of the Grand Commandery, or in the interim, with the concurrence of two (2)

Trustees and the Grand Commander for good and enough reason as these officers may think fit.

Such changes will be reported at the next Stated Conclave and submitted to a confirmation vote.

AND IT BE RESOLVED that Section 17 (G) read as follows:

(H) The Grand Recorder shall have charge of administration and practical operation of the Sir Knight

E. Carey Knight Fund and maintaining the records of all transactions. All annual earnings shall be

transferred to the Grand Treasurer and distributed by invoice by the Grand Recorder as follows:





REASON: Remaining two-hundred-fifty-thousand dollars ($250,000.00) in the fund as principle, transferring thirty-thousand dollars ($30,000.00) of current earnings to the Bicentennial Fund, and transferring the remaining current earnings to the Operation Account will meet the E. Carey Knight family’s desires and has their representatives approval, especially if the donations are distributed in the name of E. Carey Knight. Future earnings distributed as Section 17 (G) of the Constitution and Statutes will allow efficient use of the E. Carey Knight’s trust and be a memorial to Sir Knight E. Carey Knight. Respectfully submitted, Sir Knight Benjamin F. Hill, KTCH Past Commander, Portsmouth Commandry No. 5


Sir Knight John Jeffrey McClelland, KCT

Past Commander, Penn-Neck Commandery No. 33

Chairman, Long Range Planning Committee

RESOLUTION No. 4

RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTIONS 12 AND 17



REGARDING ESTABLISHING A FISCAL MANAGEMENT ESCROW ACCOUNT




There is established a Permanent Fund, consisting initially of the funds and securities held presently by the Trustees, and which may be added to from time to time as Grand Commandery may think fit; the purpose of this fund being to provide a source of annual income to supplement Per Capita taxes together with any other income available to the Grand Commandery, and to handle such emergencies as may arise. This fund shall include the General Fund, the Permanent Life Membership Fund, the Holy Land Pilgrimage Fund, the Baldwin Brown Fund, the Museum Fund, and such other funds as the Trustees may deem necessary to establish. Each of these funds shall be established as separate accounts. (C) The officers of the Permanent Fund shall be the three Trustees elected respectively for three




(H) The Trustees shall be bonded with a Fidelity Company in an amount not less than

that equal to the total amount of the securities and other assets held in their custody. (I) The Trustees shall cause no distributions to be made from the Permanent Fund

other than payments to Commanderies for Permanent Life Memberships, annual payments from the Holy Land Pilgrimage Fund to send Ministers to the Holy Land annual income from the Baldwin Brown Fund for purposes included in the Annual Budget, or, between Stated Conclaves as two (2) Trustees together with the Grand Commander may determine as necessary. No changes will be made in the investments without the authority of the Grand Commandery, or in the interim, with the concurrence of two (2) Trustees and the Grand Commander for good and enough reason as these officers may think fit. Such changes will be reported at the next Stated Conclave and submitted to a confirmation vote; and













WHEREAS, there are no provisions to ensure that revenue and annual earnings transferred to the Grand

Treasurer before the beginning of the fiscal year are restricted until the next fiscal year budget has been

approved; and

WHEREAS, there are no provisions or budgeted funds for extraordinary, unexpected or unbudgeted

expenses to be handled in an expedient manner; and

WHEREAS, it is both necessary and prudent to establish and manage a Grand Commandery Escrow

Account for the Grand Treasure’s use to handle such emergences as may arise; and

NOW, IT BE RESOLVED, that a transfer of ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00) be made from the General

Fund to the Operating Budget to establish a Fiscal Management Escrow Account to be used to fund

unexpected Grand Commandery expenses; and

IT BE RESOLVED that Section 12 (F) read as follows:

(F) At the end of the Calendar Year and no later than January 15th, annual income (earnings)

from the General Fund, Baldwin Brown Fund, Museum Fund, and the E. Carey Knight Fund

shall be transferred to the Fiscal Management Escrow Account maintained by the Grand

Treasurer.

IT BE RESOLVED that Section 17 (E) read as follows:

The earnings from investments of the operating accounts and investments held by the Grand

Commandery are to be used as revenue by the Grand Commandery.

IT BE RESOLVED that Section 17 (H) read as follows:

(H) All annual earnings and revenues from the Grand Commandery General Fund, Baldwin

Brown Fund, Museum Fund, and E. Cary Knight Fund investments, per capita dues, and accrual

monies against future expenses shall be transferred to the Fiscal Management Escrow

Account in a restricted status until the Operating Budget is approved at the annual Stated

Grand Conclave. If it is determined that the Fiscal Management Escrow Account balance

ceiling of ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00) plus accrual monies against future expenses needs

to be raised and funded, it shall be done so through the operating budget process. Any

residual funds beyond the ceiling in the Fiscal Management Escrow Account after meeting the

Operating Budget needs and replenishing funding for future expenses such as but not limited

to any extraordinary, unexpected or unbudgeted expenses, may be returned to the

appropriate Funds to promote fund growth.

REASON: For years Grand Commandery did not have enough monies to cover expenses between the

end of the fiscal year (March 31) to the approval of the next Operating Budget at the Stated Conclave of

Grand Commandery. Funding was “borrowed” from a Grand Commandery Cash Account used for

holding designated funds for Triennial, Computer and Equipment Replacements, and other Accrued

Expenses, then replaced when the Operating Budget was approved. When that Cash Account was

transferred to the General Fund in 2017, that “cushion” was removed, and the borrowed funds

magnified Grand Commandery’s unstable financial situation. In 2018 and 2019, monies were

“borrowed” from the incoming capitation for 2018 and 2019 Operating Budgets to cover the shortfalls

that the transfers caused. Thus, when the Operational Budgets was approved there were no monies to

cover five to six budget line items putting the Grand Commander Elect in a deficit before being installed.

This “borrowing from Peter to Pay Paul” must stop—it is not prudent fiscal management. It is imperative

to approve a Grand Commandery Fiscal Management Escrow Account for the Grand Treasure’s use to

handle such emergences as may arise and to return to sound financial and business practices and

processes.



RESOLUTION No. 5

RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTION 17 (C)



REGARDING PER CAPITA DUES

BE IT RESOLVED that Section 17 (C), which reads as follows:

Section 17 (C): The per capita dues for every member of all Constituent Commanderies holding

allegiance to the Grand Commandery Knights Templar in the Commonwealth of Virginia shall be

as follows:

Fifteen Dollars ($15.00) except for those members having previously purchased Life

Membership in perpetuity and the same having been deposited for a period of twelve

months, beginning March 01, 2011.

The per capita dues stated above, effective in the respective years for the Grand

Commandery of Virginia does not include any per capita levies by the Grand

Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America.

BE AMEMDED to read as follows:

Section 17 (C): The per capita dues for every member of all Constituent Commanderies holding

allegiance to the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar in the Commonwealth of Virginia shall

be as follows:

Fifteen Dollars ($15.00) except for those members having previously purchased Life

Membership in perpetuity and the same having been deposited for a period of twelve

months, beginning March 01, 2011.

Twenty dollars ($20.00) beginning January 01, 2021 except for those members having

previously purchased Life Membership in perpetuity and the same having been

deposited for a period of twelve months, beginning January 01, 2020.

The per capita dues stated above, effective in the respective years for the Grand

Commandery of Virginia does not include any per capita levies by the Grand

Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America.

REASON:

The expenses of the Grand Commandery increase proportionally according to the inflation rate

of the goods and services it consumes. No positive adjustments have been made to compensate

for these conditions over the past ten years while inflation has rose by thirty-eight percent

(38%). Reduction in expenditures has been the only response and, in most cases, harmful to the

perpetuation of the Order.

Membership has been falling for the past thirty years and the Grand Commanders’ solution has been to reduce funding to programs that could assist in increasing the membership. Recognition and recruiting programs must be funded if we are to survive.

The Grand Commandery’s use of technology must be brought current to include, but not limited to, better education and familiarization programs being made available to the Sir Knights on the use of the Masonic Membership Solutions (MMS) and the digitization and storage of all Grand Commandery Records.



RESOLUTION No. 6

RESOLUTION ON PERMANENT FUND

Whereas Section 12 of the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia has established the Permanent Fund of the Grand Commandery; And whereas Section 12(a) delineates the Officers of the Permanent Fund as the Trustees of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia; And whereas the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia has been awarded a substantial payout from the estate of Sir Knight E. Carey Knight; And whereas the number of members of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar has decreased by 1,162 from January 1, 2004 to January 1, 2019 (15 Years) for an average loss of 78 members per year; And whereas that total loss of membership is equivalent to $17,430.00 in current year per capita, if those members were still active; And whereas an average loss of 78 members equals an annual loss of per capita income to the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia in the amount of $1,170.00; And whereas it is likely that membership will continue to diminish for the foreseeable future (an average of 78 members for at least 6 years, equal to a loss of 468 members); And whereas the loss of per capita income by 2025 from those 468 members would equal $7,020.00; And whereas the current investment management company of the E. Carey Knight Fund estimates that if left alone to grow, the Fund will accrue to approximately 1 million dollars in 12 years; And whereas if it is allowed to accrue for that duration, a distribution of only 5% of interest earned will generate $50,000.00 per year to the Grand Commandery; And whereas 5% of the interest earned to date ($100,000) equals $5,000, which is equal to the per capita loss from 333 members; Therefore, be it resolved that Section 12 of the Constitutions of the Grand Commandery of Virginia which reads in pertinent part as follows: This fund shall include the General Fund, the Permanent Life Membership Fund, the Holy Land Pilgrimage Fund, the Baldwin Brown Fund, the Museum Fund, and such other funds as the Trustees may deem necessary to establish. be amended as follows:

This fund shall include the General Fund, the Permanent Life Membership Fund, the Holy Land Pilgrimage Fund, the Baldwin Brown Fund, the Museum Fund, the E. Carey Knight Fund and such other funds as the Trustees may deem necessary to establish. And that Section 12(E) which reads in pertinent part be amended as follows: (Note: changes in BOLD type) (E) The Trustees shall cause no distributions to be made from the Permanent Fund other than payments to Commanderies for Permanent Life Memberships, annual payments from the Holy Land Pilgrimage Fund to send Ministers to the Holy Land, annual income (interest only) from the Baldwin Brown Fund for purposes included in the Annual Budget, and no more than 5% of the income earned by the E. Carey Knight Fund into the Operating Fund of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia. NO other Distributions from the interest income earned by the Permanent fund are allowed. All distributions will be in accordance with the budget approved at the Stated Conclave of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia each annum. No changes will be made in the investments of the Permanent Fund without the authority of the Grand Commandery in stated Conclave, or between Stated Conclaves without the concurrence of two (2) Trustees and the Grand Commander. Such changes will be reported at the next Stated Conclave and submitted to a confirmation vote. No expenditure or withdrawal of principal funds of the Permanent Fund is allowed without approval of the Grand Commandery at a Stated Conclave. REASON: To provide for the fiscal well-being of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia during a continuing time of membership losses, and to clarify in the Constitutions and Statutes the management of the Permanent Fund. Respectively submitted, Mark W. Underwood, Past Commander Old Dominion Commandery No.11 Past Grand Commander Trustee (1 Year) and Chairman J.D. Davis, Past Commander Luray Commandery No. 19 Trustee (2 Years) Edwin R. Carpenter, Jr, Past Commander Piedmont Commandery No. 26 Right Eminent Past Grand Commander of Virginia Right Eminent Past Department Commander, Northeast Department John R. Wigglesworth, Jr, Past Commander Arlington Commandery No. 29 Right Eminent Past Grand Commander of Virginia Former Chairman of the Finance Committee

William T. Hargrove, Past Commander Portsmouth Commandery No. 5 Right Eminent Past Grand Commander of Virginia Past Trustee of the Permanent Fund James B. Bartley, Past Commander Piedmont Commandery No. 26

RESOLUTION No. 7

RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH THE MEMBERSHIP COMMIITTEE AS A STANDING COMMITTEE OF THE GRAND COMMANDERY OF KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF VIRGINIA

WHEREAS, the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia has a Special Committee on Membership, and WHEREAS, Membership is a primary concern of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia; and WHEREAS, Membership is a priority of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar U. S. A., and WHEREAS, Membership will continue to be an ongoing challenge, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Membership Committee become a Standing Committee under Section 13 Standing Committees of the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Virginia, and the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Virginia be amended in Section 13 Standing Committees, to read: (R) MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

The Membership Committee will develop and administer a campaign designed to achieve the membership goals as established by the Grand Encampment and the Grand Commandery and include them in the Long Range Plan. This will be accomplished by providing specific programs that will assist the Grand Commandery and Constituent Commanderies with recruitment, retention and restoration of Sir Knights.

NOTE: The Grand Encampment is taking a much larger role in all program development and implementation. Submitted with All Knightly Courtesy, S. K. J. Jeffrey McClelland, KCT Past Commander Penn-Neck Commandery No. 33

RESOLUTION No. 8

CONVERTING THE DRILL TEAM COMMITTEE FROM A SPECIAL COMMITTEE TO A STANDING

COMMITTEE OF THE GRAND COMMANDERY OF KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF VIRGINIA

Whereas the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia has a Drill Team Committee constituted

by the Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia, and

Whereas the Drill Team Committee has a chairman who has charge of administration and practical

operation of drill team activities, and

Whereas the Drill Team is bound by the Constitution, Statutes, Disciplinary Rules, Standing Resolutions,

Ceremonies, Forms, and Approved Decisions of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United

States of America, (GEKT C&S) which states that drill regulations are within the jurisdiction of the Grand

Commandery. (1940, p 64 & 281, No. 4, Norris, 1988 digest – 186, 324, & 327), the decision (1928, p. 53

& 343. No. 3, Vallery) and

Whereas the Drill Team is a constitutional and ongoing organization within the Grand Commandery of

Knights Templar of Virginia, and

Whereas the Drill Team serves as an ambassador for the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of

Virginia.

Therefore, be it resolved that the Drill Team Committee should become a Standing Committee with

Section 13 of the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia to

be amended to include a paragraph (S) that reads,

Section 13 (S) Drill Team Committee

(1) The Committee shall consist of a Chairman, appointed by the Grand

Commander, Constituent Commandery Representatives and three additional

members.

(2) The Chairman shall have charge of administration and practical operation of

the Drill Team Committee and Grand Commandery drill related activities.

(3) All expenses shall be included in the approved operating budget of the Grand

Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia.

(4) The maintenance of Drill Team Awards and additions there to are the

responsibility of the Chairman. Such awards and wearing of the same shall be in

compliance with the Constitution, Statutes, Disciplinary Rules, Standing

Resolutions, Ceremonies, Forms, and Approved Decisions of the Grand

Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States of America and the

Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of

Virginia

(5) The Chairman will assist the Grand Commander as requested in a

presentation ceremony presenting the awards to the recipients.

Respectively submitted,

Sir Knight Charles B. Barbee

Commander, Fredericksburg Commandery No. 1

& Chairman, Drill Team Committee

RESOLUTION No. 9

RESOLUTION ON MAKEUP OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE

Whereas Section 13(D) of the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia specifies the makeup and function of the Finance Committee of the Grand Commandery of Virginia; And Whereas the Finance Committee needs to be able to act independently of any other members or body of members of the Grand Commandery; And whereas the elected Grand Officers by virtue of their receiving salaries and stipends from the Grand Commandery Treasury can unduly affect the formation; And whereas there needs to be an annual accounting of all funds, securities, etc. of the Grand Commandery of Virginia; Therefore, be it resolved that Section 13(D) of the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of Virginia which reads as follows:

(D) FINANCE

(1) Which shall prepare a budget of the anticipated revenues and expenditures of the Grand Commandery for the next ensuing Templar year; and immediately preceding each Stated Conclave shall examine the books and vouchers of the Grand Treasurer and Grand Recorder, report the actual condition of the financial records of the Grand Commandery and present the budget at each Stated Conclave.

(2) The Committee shall examine any securities or any Fund, Trust or otherwise, held by the Trustees or any committee, under the tax identification number of the Grand Commandery of Virginia and report the same to the Grand Commandery.

(3) The expense of such audit, if any, shall be paid by the Grand Treasurer when approved by the Grand Commander. Be amended to read (changes in bold italics):

(D) FINANCE

(1) The Committee shall be made up of at least 3 members of the Grand Commandery of Virginia, as appointed by the Grand Commander. No elected or appointed officers of the Grand Commandery of Virginia may be appointed to the Finance Committee.

(2) Which shall prepare a budget of the anticipated revenues and expenditures of the Grand Commandery for the next ensuing Templar year; and immediately preceding each Stated Conclave shall examine the books and vouchers of the Grand Treasurer and Grand Recorder, and report the actual

condition of the financial records of the Grand Commandery and present the budget at each Stated Conclave.

(3) Annually, the Committee, with the assistance of a certified accounting firm, shall examine all Securities, Funds, and Trusts held by the Trustees or any committee of the Grand Commandery of Virginia, under the Internal Revenue Service’s tax identification number of the Grand Commandery of Virginia and report the same to the Grand Commandery.

(4) The expense of such audit shall be paid by from the Operating Account of the Grand Commandery of Virginia by the Grand Treasurer when approved by the Grand Commander. Reason: to assure that the Finance Committee is not unduly influenced by any member of the Elected Grand Line who can and do benefit financially from the Treasury of the Grand Commandery as payments for salaries or stipends are part of the budget process. To ensure also that all financial transactions of the Grand Commandery are in accordance with good fiscal policy and comply with the US Tax Code. Respectively submitted, James B. Bartley, Past Commander Piedmont Commandery No. 26 Edwin R. Carpenter, Jr, Past Commander Piedmont Commandery No. 26 Right Eminent Past Grand Commander of Virginia Right Eminent Past Department Commander, Northeast Department William T. Hargrove, Past Commander Portsmouth Commandery No. 5 Right Eminent Past Grand Commander of Virginia John R. Wigglesworth, Jr, Past Commander Arlington Commandery No. 29 Right Eminent Past Grand Commander of Virginia Former Chairman, Finance Committee

RESOLUTION No. 10

RESOLUTION TO REQUIRE A BALANCE BUDGET

Whereas budgets have been increasing while revenues have been decreasing and deficit spending

cannot be sustained long term;

Therefore be it now resolved that the Finance Committee produce balanced budgets whereby

expenditures do not exceed revenue and that Section 13 (D) (1) be revised as listed below:

Section 13 (D) (1) now reads:

(D) FINANCE

(1) Which shall prepare a budget of the anticipated revenues and expenditures of the Grand

Commandery for the next ensuing Templar year; and immediately preceding each Stated Conclave shall

examine the books and vouchers of the Grand Treasurer and Grand Recorder, report the actual

condition of the financial records of the Grand Commandery and present the budget at each Stated

Conclave.

Section 13(D) (1) revised shall read:

(D) FINANCE

(1) Which shall prepare a balanced budget of the anticipated revenues and expenditures of the Grand

Commandery for the next ensuing Templar year ensuring that the expenditures do not exceed

revenues; and immediately preceding each Stated Conclave shall examine the books and vouchers of

the Grand Treasurer and Grand Recorder, report the actual condition of the financial records of the

Grand Commandery and present the balanced budget at each Stated Conclave.

Respectively Submitted,

William T. Hargrove, KCT, KYGCH, PGC

RESOLUTION No. 11

RESOLUTION TO CHANGE HOW REVENUE IS DERIVED

Whereas the number of Sir Knights in Virginia continues to decline and the revenue derived from per

capita also continues to decline, and;

Whereas due to wise decisions by the Board of Trustees over the past few years has resulted in

significant gains in the various accounts in the Permanent Fund, and;

Whereas the budget has continued to increase while membership has continued to decline, and;

Whereas the per capita will no longer support the budget, and;

Whereas Section 17 (E) which reads as follows:

Section 17. REVENUE -- HOW DERIVED The revenue of the Grand Commandery shall be derived from the

following sources:

(E) The interest upon deposits and investments of the operating accounts and investments of

the Grand Commandery.

and;

Whereas there are several kinds of income “upon deposits and Investments” including interest,

dividends, and growth, and;

Whereas in order to have a balanced budget and avoid a per capita dues increase:

Therefore be it now resolved that Section 17 (E) be changed to read:

(E) The increase in value of the General Fund, Baldwin Brown Fund and the Museum Fund over

the balance at the end of the previous calendar year shall be available to supplement the other revenue

sources above so far as is necessary to have a balanced budget.



RESOLUTION No. 12

RESOLUTION TO CLARIFY WHEN A MEMBER IS IN ARREARS FOR ONE YEARS DUES

Whereas Section27 (A) specifies when dues are due to a Constituent Commandery and states;

Section 27. DUES AND ASSESSMENTS (A) RIGHT TO LEVY AND COLLECT DUES A Commandery has the

right to levy and collect such annual dues as it may deem necessary to defray its expenses. Annual dues

are due to be paid to the Constituent Commandery by December 31st for the upcoming year. [GC 2018]

And;

Whereas on January 1 any member who has not paid his dues on December 31st, is in arrears for one

year’s dues.

And;

Whereas Section 29 (E) specifies the due process for handling the suspension of members for being in

arrears for one year’s dues and states;

(E) SUSPENSION FOR ARREARMENT

Every member in arrears to a Commandery for one year’s dues shall be notified by the Recorder to

attend at the next Stated Conclave of the Commandery to show cause why he should not be suspended

for non-payment of dues; if he does not attend or respond to the notice and the amount charged

against him equal to one year's dues or more, remain unpaid, the Commandery may by a majority vote

declare him suspended. Provided, however, that if the Frater does not reside in the Jurisdiction of the

Commandery, the notice shall be mailed to his last known address, by registered or certified mail, and if

return receipt for the notice is not received, no action as to his suspension shall be taken by the

Commandery until three months after the date on which the notice is mailed him.

And;

Whereas there has been a misconception that a member cannot be notified to attend the next Stated

Conclave to show cause why he should not be suspended until he had been in arrears for one year, and;

Whereas this misconception needs to be corrected and clarified;

Therefore be it now resolved that Section 29 (E) be changed to read;

(E) SUSPENSION FOR ARREARMENT

As soon as practical after January 1st every member in arrears to a Commandery for one year’s dues

shall be notified by the Recorder to attend at the next Stated Conclave of the Commandery to show

cause why he should not be suspended for non-payment of dues; if he does not attend or respond to

the notice and the amount charged against him equal to one year's dues or more, remain unpaid, the

Commandery may by a majority vote declare him suspended. Provided, however, that if the Frater does

not reside in the Jurisdiction of the Commandery, the notice shall be mailed to his last known address,

by registered or certified mail, and if return receipt for the notice is not received, no action as to his

suspension shall be taken by the Commandery until three months after the date on which the notice is

mailed him.



RESOLUTION No. 13

RESOLUTION TO AMEND SECTION 32(B)(9) OF THE CONSTITUTION AND STATUTES OF THE


BE IT RESOLVED that Section 32(B)(9) of the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of

Knights Templar of Virginia, which reads as follows:

(9) SWORD SLING

To be used in lieu of Belt, attached to trousers belt or other belt worn under the coat with black strap

passing through the opening provided on the left side of coat. Sling straps are snapped to top rings on

the scabbard.

Be amended to read as follows:

(9) Belt (optional with dress or summer uniform)

(1) For all Sir Knights below the rank of Commander:

The belt shall be of black grain leather one and three-quarters inches wide, mounted with a lace

woven of silver plated wire and black silk one and five-eighths inches wide, in colors in parallel stripes,

four of silver and three of black, the black stripes to be of equal width and silver stripes to be five

thirty-seconds of an inch wide. The belt is to clasp with a silver plated belt buckle of pattern

hereinafter described and to have three slings of black grain leather on which to hang the sword, each

seven-eighths of an inch wide, two short and one long, upon which shall be mounted a lace of the

same material as that of the belt, three-fourths of an inch wide consisting of two stripes of silver, each

five thirty-seconds of an inch wide and one of black. The slings are to be suspended by silver plated

clasps from a leather strap fastened to at the lower ends. On the second sling at the lower edge of

the belt is to be placed a silver plated rigid sword hook. An alternate sword sling may be of silver

chain instead of the above-described black grain leather.

(2) For Commanders, Past Commanders, and Grand Officers:

Same as for Sir Knights except that all mounting, including belt buckle, shall be gold plated and gold

wire shall be substituted for silver in the lace. An alternate sword sling may be of gold chain instead

of the above described black grain leather or silver cross guard for Sir Knights.

(3) For Past Grand Commanders:

Same as for Grand Officers except lace shall be purple and gold.

(4) Belt Buckle

To be rectangular in shape, two by three inches, of hard metal with one-eighths inch polished raised

beveled edge without ornamentation except the face stippled in vermicelli pattern, dull finish. In the

center of the buckle a Passion Cross of hard red enamel, the buckle to be attached to the belt with a

French fastener and the return end to be held in place by a sliding loop of the same material as belt

one-half inch in width. The belt shall be devoid of any jeweled ornamentation of any kind whatever

and no name or inscription (with the exception of In Hoc Signo Vinces) shall be placed thereon other

than that prescribed above; provided however, that officers of the Grand Commandery may

substitute a Templar Cross for the Passion Cross, and Past Grand Commanders with Templar Cross in

Purple.

(5) Sword Sling

To be used in lieu of Belt, attached to trousers belt or other belt worn under the coat with black strap

passing through the opening provided on the left side of coat. Sling straps are snapped to top rings on

the scabbard.

REASON:

The attached amendment for the Knights Templar Uniform is presented as a resolution to modify the

existing regulation concerning the Knight Templar Uniform belt and its wear. The modification

resolution is intended as an optional item for the dress uniform.

This resolution is presented to give the uniformed Knight Templar a dress option in preference to the

uncomfortable sword sling or the leather belt loop that is presently worn. It is observed that many

Knights in our Grand Commandery own one of these dress belts and they wear it underneath their

uniform coat. This dress belt is both a required and optional item throughout many Grand

Commanderies in the Grand Encampment. If a Sir Knight desires to purchase this belt, it is readily

available through several suppliers. As stated above, this is to be an optional item, and not a

requirement.

Presented by,

Joel D. Ratliff, Sr., KCT Past Grand Commander Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Virginia

I also recommend that Section 32(A)(2) be amended as follows:

BE IT RESOLVED, that Section 32(A)(2) of the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Commandery of

Knights Templar of Virginia, which reads as follows:

(2) The Grand or Constituent Commanderies, in publishing orders for Conclaves, may specify the type of

uniform to be worn.

Be amended to read as follows:

(2) The Grand or Constituent Commanderies, in publishing orders for Conclaves, may specify the type of

uniform to be worn. Templar uniforms may be worn for all Templar occasions, provided that when

appearing in public, the entire Commandery MUST be dressed in like manner – either in Regulation

Uniform, Cap and Mantle, Summer Uniform or Ceremonial Uniform.

REASON:

The amendment merely reflects the uniformity requirement of the Knight Templar uniform when worn

in public, in accordance with Section 256 of the Constitution and Statutes of the Grand Encampment of

Knights Templar of the United States of America.

RESOLUTION No. 14

RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE VIRGINIA MANUAL OF TACTICS AND ASYLUM CEREMONIES

GRAND COMMANDERY OF KNIGHTS TEMPLAR OF VIRGINIA PER COMMITTEE ON WORK (RITUAL AND TACTICS)

Be it resolved that the Manual of Tactics and Ceremonies of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar

of Virginia, be amended to include the following ceremony:

CEREMONY FOR

DRAPING A COMMANDERY CHARTER

This ceremony should be conducted in an Asylum of a Commandery of Knights Templar to drape the

Charter in memory of a departed Sir Knight.

C: Sir Knights: Atten-TION. We will now drape our Charter memory of Sir Knight (Full Name).

C: Sir Knight Senior Warden: (the SW renders the sword salute; the C returns the salute with a

Hand Salute). Drape the Charter.

SW: Sir Knight Junior Warden: (they exchange sword salutes). Accompany me to the Charter. (The

Junior Warden marches toward the SW while the SW executes an about face. They both march to the

station of the Recorder who should have a suitable black draping or ribbon readily available to drape the

Commandery Charter. Upon arrival at the Charter, the SW will execute a left face so that he is facing

North and the JW will execute a right face so that he is facing South. While positioned on both sides of

the Charter, they will slowly lower their swords in unison and at such a level as to enable the Recorder

to place the draping from the tip of the SW sword to the tip of the JW sword. NOTE: If a ribbon is used,

only the SW will place it on the Charter while the JW remains at carry sword. Both the SW and JW will

slowly raise the draping so that they can place it securely on both corners of the Charter, then lower

their swords in unison to a carry position).

C: Sir Knight Senior and Junior Warden: To your stations MARCH. (The JW leads the way returning

directly to his station and upon arrival comes to an about face and remains at attention until the SW

arrives at his station. They both return their swords in unison and remain at attention.

C: Sir Knights: Un-COVER. C: Let us have a moment of silent prayer to honor the memory of

our beloved Sir Knight (Full Name).

C: Sir Knights: Re-COVER. Be-SEATED.

END OF CEREMONY

Reasons why this resolution will be beneficial to the Grand Commandery.

As there appears that no written ceremony exists for draping a Commandery Charter upon the death of

a fellow Sir Knight, and the inconsistencies of doing so within each constituent Commandery, this

ceremony is hereby submitted to help provide standardization and is recommended by this committee

for consideration and inclusion in the Virginia Manual of Tactics and Asylum Ceremonies.

Respectfully Submitted by:

Sir Knight William T. Hargrove, (24), REPGC, KCT

Sir Knight Charles G. Steele, III (15), Grand Instructor General

RESOLUTION No. 15

RESOLUTION TO STANDARDIZE WARDER TACTICS

Whereas there are five places in the Virginia Tactics Manual where the Warder announces the approach

of the Eminent Commander, Eminent District Deputy Grand Commander and Right Eminent Grand

Commander as listed below;

In the Full Form Opening, page 12:

W: (As the escort enters the Asylum, the W, facing the line of march, announces in a loud voice:) The

Eminent Commander Approaches. (The C, G & P remain at the door until the CG has brought the

SKs to Present Swords and assumed his station. After all have entered, the W closes the door,

and resumes his station at Present Swords.)

In the Reception of the District Deputy Grand Commander, page 50:

W: (The W faces East when the Escort enters the Asylum, and announces:)The Eminent District

Deputy Grand Commander approaches. (The W closes the door, resumes his station and comes

to Present Swords.)

In the Reception of the Grand Commander at an Individual Commandery, page 76:

W: (The W faces East when the Escort enters the Asylum, and announces:)The Right Eminent Grand

Commander approaches. (When all have entered, the W will close the door, resume his station

and come to Present Swords.)

In the District Reception of the Grand Commander, page 81:

W: (The W faces East when the Escort enters the Asylum, and announces:)The Right Eminent Grand

Commander approaches. (When all have entered, the W will close the door, resume his station

and come to Present Swords.)

In the Full Form Opening of the Grand Commandery of Virginia, page 89:

GW: (As the escort enters the Asylum, the GW, facing the line of march, will announce in a loud voice.)

THE RIGHT EMINENT GRAND COMMANDER APPROACHES! (After all have entered the Asylum,

the GW closes the door, resumes his station and comes to Present Swords.)

Whereas there are four different versions of the notes directing the tactics of the Warder or Grand

Warder and none of them agree with the tactics for the Warder in the Grand Encampment Tactics

Manual:

Therefore be it now resolved that notes directing the tactics of the Warder or Grand Warder be

standardized for all five occasions listed above as follows:

In the Full Form Opening, page 12:

W: (The W faces East when the Escort enters the Asylum and announces in a loud voice.) The

Eminent Commander Approaches. (The W then faces the line of march and comes to Present

Swords. The C, G & P remain at the door until the CG has brought the SKs to Present Swords

and assumed his station. After all have entered, the W comes to Carry Swords, closes the door,

and resumes his station at Present Swords.)

In the Reception of the District Deputy Grand Commander, page 50:

W: (The W faces East when the Escort enters the Asylum and announces in a loud voice.)The Eminent

District Deputy Grand Commander approaches. (The W then faces the line of march and comes

to Present Swords. The DDGC & staff remain at the door until the C has brought the SKs to

Present Swords and assumed his station. After all have entered, the W comes to Carry Swords,

closes the door, and resumes his station at Present Swords.)

In the Reception of the Grand Commander at an Individual Commandery, page 76:

W: (The W faces East when the Escort enters the Asylum and announces in a loud voice.)The Right

Eminent Grand Commander approaches. (The W then faces the line of march and comes to

Present Swords. The GC & staff remain at the door until the C has brought the SKs to Present

Swords and assumed his station. After all have entered, the W comes to Carry Swords, closes the

door, and resumes his station at Present Swords.)

In the District Reception of the Grand Commander, page 81:

W: (The W faces East when the Escort enters the Asylum and announces in a loud voice.)The Right

Eminent Grand Commander approaches. (The W then faces the line of march and comes to

Present Swords. The GC & staff remain at the door until the C has brought the SKs to Present

Swords and assumed his station. After all have entered, the W comes to Carry Swords, closes the

door, and resumes his station at Present Swords.)

In the Full Form Opening of the Grand Commandery of Virginia, page 89:

GW: (The GW faces East when the Escort enters the Asylum and announces in a loud voice.)The Right

Eminent Grand Commander approaches. (The GW then faces the line of march and comes to

Present Swords. The GC & staff remain at the door until the GCG has brought the SKs to Present

Swords and assumed his station. After all have entered, the GW comes to Carry Swords, closes

the door, and resumes his station at Present Swords.)

Respectively Submitted,


Past Grand Instructor General

RESOLUTION No. 16

RESOLUTION TO ADD “CALLING OFF” AND “CALLING ON”

TO THE VIRGINIA TACTICS MANUAL

Whereas the Virginia Tactics manual was revised in January 2017 by the Grand Instructor General and

the Committee on Work, and;

Whereas the Grand Instructor General and the Committee on Work had prepared a tactic for Calling Off

and Calling On a Constituent Commandery, and;

Whereas the tactic for Calling Off and Calling On a Constituent Commandery was inadvertently left out

of the January 2017 revision of the Virginia Tactics Manual;

Therefore be it resolved that the following tactic for Calling Off and Calling On a Constituent

Commandery be added to the Virginia Tactics Manual following the Short Form Opening.



Past Grand Instructor General

Calling Off and On

To Call off the Commandery:

C: (C rises) Sir Knights, Atten-TION; (C draws sword and comes to Parry One) I now declare the business of the Commandery suspended. (C comes to Carry Swords)

C: Sir Knight Warder, (W rises, takes one pace forward and draws sword) (They exchange sword salutes) Inform the Sentinel. (They exchange sword salutes)

W: (W proceeds to the tiled door and opens it without alarm) Sir Knight Sentinel, the business of the Commandery is suspended. (W leaves door open and returns to station)

P: (While the W goes to tiled door, P attends at the altar, removes jewels and closes Bible)

W: Eminent Commander, (They exchange sword salutes) your order has been obeyed. (They exchange sword salutes W returns sword and is seated)

C: (C announces the purpose and duration of the suspension) Sir Knights, you are at ease. (C returns his sword)

To Call on the Commandery:

C: Officers, take your stations. Sir Knights, be SEATED. (C is seated)

C: Sir Knight Warder, (W rises, takes pace forward, draws sword and salutes, C hand salutes) I am about to resume business in the Commandery. Inform the Sentinel and direct him to guard accordingly. (They exchange salutes)

W: (W proceeds to the tiled door and opens it without alarm) Sir Knight Sentinel, the Commander is about to resume business in the Commandery. Take your post and guard accordingly. (W closes door and gives battery *** *** *** * S answers) (W returns to station and reports)

W: Eminent Commander, (They exchange salutes) your order has been obeyed. (W returns sword and is seated)

C: Sir Knight Senior Warden, (SW rises, takes one pace forward, draws sword, faces east and salutes) (C hand salutes) are all present Knights Templar? (They exchange salutes)

(Same commands and procedure as in the Full form Opening)

SW: Eminent Commander, (They exchange salutes) all present are Knights Templar. (They exchange salutes) (SW returns sword and is seated)

C: (C rises, draws sword and comes to Parry One) I now declare ________ Commandery #____ again in session. (C comes to Carry Swords)

C: Sir Knight Warder, (W rises, takes one pace forward, draws sword and salutes) (C sword salutes) inform the Sentinel and direct him to guard accordingly. (They exchange salutes}

W: (W proceeds to the tiled door and opens it without alarm) Sir Knight Sentinel, ________ Commandery #____ is again in session. Take your post and guard accordingly. (W closes door and gives battery *** *** *** * S answers) (W returns to station and reports)

P: (While the W goes to tiled door, P attends at the altar, opens the Bible and sets the jewels)

W: Eminent Commander, (They exchange salutes) your order has been obeyed. (W returns sword and is seated)

C: (C returns sword and is seated)

Respectfully Submitted by:

Sir Knight William T. Hargrove, (24), REPGC, KCT

Sir Knight Charles G. Steele, III (15), Grand Instructor General

Documents

Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Virginia ...NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROPOSED, that the Grand Commandery commission the design, manufacture and purchase of jewels of suitable design