With great pride we celebrated a significant anniversary – the 50th investiture ceremony of the 21st century for the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta (KMFAP), organised by the International Organising Committee of the Order. This special occasion, held between 14-16 June 2024 at the prestigious Château Béla in Slovakia, was particularly meaningful for the postulants, who had the honour of being knighted during this momentous event.

Chivalric traditions, including the investiture, have a long history tracing back to the Middle Ages, beginning with the Order’s founding in Jerusalem in 1048.

A knighting ceremony is a highly prestigious event and marks a deeply emotional and significant moment in the life of a worthy candidate joining the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta, Federation of the Autonomous Priories (KMFAP). This unique occasion, often occurring only once in a lifetime, carries substantial historical and cultural importance, representing a high honour and recognition.

Historically, the process of becoming a knight, known as “dubbing”, involved extensive training from a young age. Aspiring knights served as pages and later as squires, learning under the tutelage of experienced knights. The dubbing ceremony, in which a squire was formally made a knight, was a pivotal event, often accompanied by a solemn oath to uphold chivalric values and ethics. Knights were revered as protectors of the realm, defenders of the vulnerable, and patrons of culture and arts, all while preserving the noble traditions of their order. 

The 50th solemn investiture of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta (KMFAP) was co-organised by the Hungarian and Slovak Grand Priories and was attended by Knights, Dames, Postulants and distinguished guests from 24 countries. The ceremony was held at Château Béla, located near the Danube river, which forms the border between Slovakia and Hungary. This esteemed venue, awarded the title of “The Most Romantic Château of Europe 2023” by the Heritage Hotels of Europe, was beautifully decorated, creating a festive and emotional atmosphere for more than 100 attendees.

The very first act of the two-day event was the Meeting of FEMERAID International, the humanitarian organisation of KMFAP, led by Sir Nuno Cosmelli, its Secretary General, with the participation of FEMERAID officials from various member countries and KMFAP leaders in the Gobelin room of the castle. The meeting included a presentation on the mission, vision, values and identifying common goals of FEMERAID International, overviewing the organizational structure and key initiatives, recap of achievements and challenges from the previous years. The agenda of the FEMERAID International Annual Meeting, to be held during the next KMFAP ceremony in Malta in October 2024, was also discussed. 

According to our traditions, the first day of the event, known as the “Day of Honour”, has always been dedicated to the “Postulants” (accepted candidates for knighthood). 

It started with the General Chapter of Knights, an afternoon meeting in the Conference room, where the highest leaders: the Grand Master, the Lieutenant General and the Grand Prior of Slovakia welcomed the members of the Order, the Postulants and family members, and presented various aspects of the Order’s activities.

These included: 

• Historical overview of the Order’s 976-year history, which began in the Holy Land, in Jerusalem in 1048

• General introduction of the KMFAP and historical overview of our 21st century ceremonies – an accurate presentation prepared by Lady Erika Macsári, Dame Commander of Malta

• Current humanitarian work in different countries and recognition of the significant activities of the Knights and Dames, as well as the donations made by the members of the Order worldwide

• Presentations were also given on FEMERAID International Air Rescue, KMFAP Embassy in Congo-Brazzaville, KMFAP in Benin, FEMERAID International Ambulance Service, FEMERAID Brazil and KMFAP Mozambique Priory

• The Postulants, originating from various countries, were introduced one-by-one, generally by the Knight or Dame who recommended the person to be admitted to the Order, respectively the Godfather or the Godmother of the postulant

• They then received their Postulant Diplomas and the Code of Chivalry, which is a set of moral and ethical guidelines that knights were expected to follow in the medieval period. While the exact code may vary somewhat depending on time and place, the core principles remain commonly upheld.

• KMFAP Magisterial Charters were handed over to three new members of the Magisterial Guard

• Sir Ronald Stewart Watt, a guest of honour from Scotland, was awarded with the IBA 10. Dan Diploma

• To prepare the postulants for the next day’s investiture ceremony, detailed information was provided and a comprehensive video presentation was shown illustrating the knighting process

Following the General Chapter of Knights meeting, the Watch of the Arms was held by the Grand Master in the Hunting room, which was adorned with knightly symbols and colours. This ancient tradition, a kind of meditation, serves to prepare the postulants for the upcoming knighting. It also aims to acquaint them with the symbols and requisites of the Order, such as the 8-pointed cross, the red cape, the sword and the spur, as well as their historical significance.

The day concluded with the traditional Welcome Dinner in the Orangerie, which was beautifully transformed for the occasion with elegant decoration. Flags and a festive ambience provided the perfect setting for celebrating the 50th knighting ceremony of the 21st century, held by our professional and efficient event organising team.

Guests enjoyed exquisite cuisine from Chateau Belá along with a selection of fine Sekt, as well as white and red wines from the KMFAP Wine Shop in Germany, which we are very proud to offer. These high-quality beverages can be ordered online, with proceeds going to humanitarian purposes: www.kmfapwine.shop 

The evening’s entertainment featured a performance by Sir Kristian Varga, a distinguished Slovak pianist. Sir Kristian is known not only for his exceptional musical talent, but also for his extensive humanitarian work and generous support to those in need in Slovakia. His music created a joyful atmosphere and gave the celebration an unforgettable touch.

On the second day, the long-awaited Ceremony of Investiture of the postulants took place in the magnificent Orangerie Hall, decorated with the symbols of the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem (red) and the Sovereign Order of Cyprus (royal blue), rearranged in a manner suitable for the investiture ceremony in the presence of over 100 participants and conducted in English, the official language of KMFAP.

The distinguished guests, including family members and VIPs, were seated in the room. Among them were Sir Ronald Stewart Watt OBE and Mrs. Gail Watt from Scotland, representing the prestigious Order of the Scottish Samurai from Aberdeen.

As the fanfare resonated through the air, announcing the commencement of the grand ceremony, the Processional Entrance began. According to the official protocol based on hierarchy and led by the Masters of the Ceremony Sir István Gyenes and Sir Attila Kotlár, the procession started with the Postulants in black tie or formal dress. Following them, all members, leaders and officers marched elegantly down the aisle in their finest attire, accompanied by Mozart’s music, with knights and dames in red or blue capes. It was a magical moment where music and tradition merged into something truly extraordinary.

After the senior officials - including Government members, Priors and Grand Priors - marched in and took their seats at the Presidium, the Grand Investing Officers closed the line, honoured by all in the hall standing: the Grand Prior of Slovakia, Sir Alexander Czellarik and Lady Maria Czellarikova; the Lieutenant General and Prime Minister, His Grace Count Sir George Popper. The procession culminated with the entrance of the Grand Master, H.M.E.H. Prince José, and Princess Isabel.

Then came up the Greeting the Investing Sword of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem. 

It was followed by the Saluting the Flags: the Slovak, Hungarian, KMFAP and the Sovereign Order of Cyprus flag bearers entered on the sounds of the National Anthems of Slovakia, Hungary and KMFAP. 

The Grand Master warmly welcomed all the guests, coming from 24 countries of 4 continents and thanked them for sharing this jubilee event, which marks a significant milestone in the modern history of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem.

In Perpetuam Rei Memoriam: it is customary to commemorate the deceased knights and dames who served in various capacities. A moment of solemnity and respect is observed to pay tribute to these individuals, who, though no longer physically present, remain an integral part of the Order. To mark this occasion, and to pray for the recovery of our ill members, the beautiful music of Pietro Mascagni’s “Ave Maria” was performed in their memory by the renowned soprano Lady Lívia Ághova, Dame Commander of Malta from Prague. This ceremony not only celebrates the present, but also pays homage to the past, preserving the spirit of chivalry and camaraderie for future generations.

We believe that music, particularly live performance, is essential to the solemn ceremony of the investiture, playing a crucial role in enhancing the entire experience. It elevates the occasion, evokes emotion and underscores the event’s significance. Following the moments of remembrance, the investiture continued with classical music performances by Ms. Olga Szalkay – flute and Mr. Ádám Darázs – guitar, both from Hungary.

• Sir Ronald Stewart WATT, OBE (Scotland), Founding President of the Order of the Scottish Samurai – received the KMFAP Medal of Honour for Humanitarian Work – Class 5 Gold with Diamonds 

• Mrs. Gail WATT (Scotland) – received the KMFAP Medal of Honour for Humanitarian Work – Class Gold 

• Fra Sir Dr. Ottó HOFFMANN (Hungary) – received the Medal for Cultural and Spiritual Merit of the Grand Priory of Hungarian Langue 

• Sir Ronnie Watt handed over the highest decoration of the Scottish Samurai Order to the KMFAP Grand Master – Prince José, the Prime Minister – Sir George Popper and Lady Anna Popper.

Knighthood Ceremonial – Investiture of the Postulants:

The investiture of postulants into knighthood was the centrepiece of the event and was eagerly anticipated by the postulants and their families, who assembled in the beautiful Orangerie hall. The venue was meticulously prepared for the solemn occasion, adorned with the flags and symbols of the highly respected Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem (KMFAP), evoking a profound sense of tradition and history.

Before the investiture commenced, the Speaker formally addressed the Grand Master, confirming that the KMFAP Admission Board had thoroughly reviewed and approved all candidates for knighthood. This official declaration has been a necessary step to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the proceedings. 

The speech of the Grand Master is always a pivotal moment of the ceremony, receiving close attention from all present. It provides essential guidance and instructions to the postulants regarding their roles, responsibilities and the values they must uphold as members of the Order. The address also symbolizes the official acceptance of the postulants into the organization, fostering a sense of belonging and welcoming them into the esteemed community of knights. Always closely connected to current global events and circumstances, the Grand Master’s words are both inspiring and motivating, encouraging the postulants to embrace the Order’s ideals, pursue personal growth, and engage in humanitarian work within the Order’s framework.

Just before the investiture the musical highlight of the event unfolded, adding a profound sense of drama and significance to the ceremony. Puccini’s “Vissi d’Arte” from his great opera Tosca was performed, a choice both meaningful and powerful for its lyrical beauty and emotional intensity. This aria, delivered with extraordinary depth by Lady Lívia, is a staple in our investiture ceremonies. It serves to prepare the postulants for the investiture on a spiritual level, enhancing the ceremony’s emotional and introspective dimensions. 

Then the Grand Master asked a crucial question to all Postulants: - Are you ready to serve your Home Land and obey the laws of your Government, and also to be loyal to our Sovereign Order and State, to its Grand Master and to its Government, to defend all those in need, or in danger, with no discrimination’s whatsoever, and fight for Justice and for Peace?

The postulants unanimously responded: “Yes, I am”.

The Speaker of the Ceremony requested a selected group of Dames and Knights to come forward and assist with the knighting process, conducted by the Grand Master and the Lieutenant General. This solemn event – lasting over two hours – was enhanced by poignant musical interludes that evoked deep emotions and added a profound layer to the ceremony. Music, with its unique power to touch hearts and create lasting memories, played a vital role in elevating the event’s significance.

Postulants were called in alphabetical order to stand up and follow the Master of Ceremony for investiture. This process involved signing the oath, honouring the flag, kneeling at the prie-dieu, and the Accolade: three touches on the person’s shoulders and head with the sword by the Grand Master of the Order at the bestowing of knighthood. And each postulant was presented with the Order’s Insignia, which included the neck cross for gentlemen and the bow for ladies, the red cape adorned with the 8-pointed Malta Cross, and the official Grand Diploma. During the ceremony, the names of the Godfather(s) or Godmother(s) who had recommended each new member were also announced.

At the 50th International Ceremony of Investiture the knights, dames and guests were present from 24 countries and 4 continents of the world, and the Order received 11 new members, representing 8 countries. The new Knights and Dames of the State of Knights will join their respective Priory or Grand Priory depending on their mother tongue and country of origin or residence. Please note our motto: The Generosity is its own Reward. And the power of generosity is that it makes you happier.

At this ceremony we did not invest children as members of the Orders: bestowing the title “Squire” for boys and “Damsel” for girls, which is always a heart-warming and meaningful tradition that fosters a sense of continuity and family within the Orders. This custom not only honours the dedication of parents who have been members of the Orders for many years, but also encourages the younger generation to carry on the values and principles upheld by the Orders. This tradition can also have a positive impact on the children, as it instils a sense of responsibility, respect for tradition, and a commitment to upholding the values of the Orders. It offers them a unique opportunity to learn from their parents and other senior members, benefiting from their wisdom and experience.

In accordance with the traditions of the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem and the Sovereign Order of Cyprus, the Grand Master takes the pleasure to appoint the right members in various responsible positions in the Order, also bestowing awards and advancement of grade to the members, who deserve it by their outstanding work for the benefit of the Order and to make a difference.

Certificate of Appointment was awarded to the KMFAP Wine Shop as Official Wine and Spirits Supplier to the Magisterial Household of the Prince Grand Master and Head of the State of Knights 

Advancement:

• Sir Sebastian KORTEN (Germany) – to Knight Commander of Malta 

• Sir Alexandru Tiberiu Dekany, Grand Cross Knight of Malta (Romania), who entered KMFAP in 2002, was honoured with the decoration of Knight Commander of the Sovereign Order of Cyprus – also known in history as the Knights of Sword and Silence. He received the blue cape and the neck cross of the Order of Cyprus, which features the symbols of a sword and an “S” for silence.

To bring an emotional conclusion to the investiture process the flute and guitar duo performed one of the most beautiful pieces: Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah”.

Thanks and Information by the Speaker: 

Before concluding the ceremony of the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, which was organised at the prestigious venue of Chateau Belá for the 21st time by the Slovakian and Hungarian Grand Priories, the Speaker shared some important information with the participants: - Conveying heartfelt congratulations to the new Knights and Dames, being welcomed in the Order. The leadership would like to count on their active participation in the Order’s main task and activity - humanitarian work for the needy all around the world. 

- On behalf of the leaders of the Order all Knights and Dames who contributed to the success of this worthy event with their devoted and efficient work were thanked and their names were announced. 

- The anticipation for the next Ceremony of Investiture of the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta (KMFAP) to be held in Malta in October 2024 was met with excitement and enthusiasm.

The whole ceremonial event ended with Susanne’s Rose Aria from the Opera of Mozart Nozze di Figaro, performed by Lady Lívia Ághova.

Upon completion of the investiture ceremony and the marching out according to the official protocol, accompanied with music, the Official Photo Session (groups, families, individuals) took place in the garden on the stairs leading to the balcony of the baroque style Chateau Belá. 

According to the ancient traditions after the postulant was named a knight, there would be much celebration. In this sense the ceremony ended but the celebrations continued until late at night with a Garden Party, to which the attendees were kindly invited. 

The Garden Party at Chateau Belá was a truly enchanting and memorable closing dinner of the two-day event. The setting with illuminated gardens, white tables, candle lights and white rose bushes has created a magical atmosphere. The live music duo added to the festivities, enhancing the joy and celebration of the occasion.

The highlight of the evening was a stunning cake, decorated with the coats of arms of the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem Knights of Malta, the Sovereign Order of Cyprus, and other specialized organisations of the Order. Created by Művész Coffee House (Artist Café) in Budapest, the cake also featured heartfelt wishes for the 50th ceremony, symbolizing unity, togetherness, and support among the members of the Order. 

At the same time, we celebrated the birthdays of two of our knights, Sir Jan Felix Burkhardt from Germany and Sir János Hülber from Hungary, with this delicious cake. The occasion was further enhanced by a fireworks display and a performance by soprano Lady Lívia. The cake was ceremoniously cut by the Grand Master, the Lieutenant General, and the birthday knights. This moment beautifully honoured the Order’s collective purpose and objectives while also marking Midsummer, when the reborn nature itself adds to the magic of this special time of the year.

The cheerful amusement, music, dancing and joyful vibe that lasted until the late hours, as well as the warm summer weather created a sense of happiness and friendship among all knights and dames, and other attendees. The rich selection of fine buffet dinner with our KMFAP wines further elevated the celebration in Midsummer spirit. 

Both the Garden Party and the entire ceremonial event undoubtedly left an extraordinary impression on all participants, creating unforgettable memories. Such gatherings not only bring joy but also forge lasting bonds among the members of the Sovereign Order of Saint John of Jerusalem and the Sovereign Order of Cyprus under the KMFAP umbrella. Moments like these make life truly meaningful with once in a lifetime experience. 

10th July 2024