Purpose of the Program

The Ritual Proficiency Program recognizes Sir Knights who demonstrate dedication to learning and exemplifying the ritual of the three Orders. Recognition is awarded through uniform bars and certificates upon achieving defined point thresholds.

This program is authorized under:
– Grand Encampment Constitution §139
– Grand Commandery of Maryland, General Orders: 2015‑03, 2017‑02, 2026.G4

Eligible Ritual Work

Credit may be earned only for memorized, full‑form ritual parts from:
– Illustrious Order of the Red Cross
– Mediterranean Pass & Order of Malta (Short form is acceptable)
– Order of the Temple

The following do not count toward points:
– Opening
– Closing
– Reception of the Grand Commander

Requirements for Earning Credit

A ritual part counts toward proficiency only when:
– Performed from memory
– Performed in full form (short form allowed only for Malta)
– Performed twice for credit
– Performed during:
        A live conferral of the Order
       The G.I.G.’s annual inspection
– No other performances qualify.

All work must be attested by:
– The Sir Knight performing the part (signature)
– The Constituent Recorder (signature & seal)

Application Procedure

– Review the list of eligible ritual parts and point values.
– Initial each part you have performed twice from memory.
– Total your points.
– Complete and sign the tracking sheet.
– No cost for award but must be returned to Grand Quartermaster if you receive a higher award. (Can be purchased for $10, if you want to keep your award)
– Recorder signs, seals, and forwards the application to the Grand Recorder.
– Award is returned to the Recorder for presentation.

Total Available Points (Updated 2026)

– Red Cross: 445
– Malta: 235
– Order of the Temple: 775
– Program Total: 1455

These totals reflect the removal of obsolete ritual parts and the addition of the Sepulchre Guard.

Proficiency Levels

Only the highest bar earned is worn. Lower bars must be surrendered when a higher level is awarded.

Level	Title	Required Points	Award
1	Pilgrim	365
2	Warrior	730
3	Knight	1100

Bars are die‑struck brass soft‑enamel pins with two clutches and are worn ½”–¾” above the pocket welt, below the Veterans Bar.

Grandfathering (2026)

Sir Knights who were previously required to exemplify ritual to become Commander may be grandfathered at the Warrior level, provided their past exemplification can be confirmed.

Grandfathered Knights receive 730 points and may proceed directly toward Knight.

The following parts are considered already completed and may not be counted again:

Red Cross
– Sovereign Master – 100
– Banner – 10
– Vow – 45
– Sword – 10
Malta
– Prior – 210
Order of the Temple
– Commander – 190
– Ode to the Skull – 15
– Baldric – 10
– Sword – 20
– Spur – 5
– Banners – 20
– Flag Lecture – 20
– Explanatory Lecture – 80