The Sovereign Order of the Temple of Christ, which claims to represent the modern-day Knights Templar, has recently filed a new reconciliation lawsuit against Pope Francis.
Third Legal Action
This marks the third legal action the group has taken in less than two years, as they demand the rehabilitation of the order that was disbanded in 1312.
The plaintiffs argue that the Templar order was dissolved unjustly on April 2, 1312, during the Council of Vienne. They assert that this decision was made through an Apostolic Letter issued by Pope Clement V rather than through a formal judicial ruling, according to El Economista.
They claim that the disbanding was a grave error pressured by King Philip IV of France, known for his hostility towards the Templars.
The lawsuit highlights that the order was dismantled through an “infamous process without evidence.”
At the time of their arrest, it is stated that there were approximately 15,300 knights, of whom 650 were killed, while 14,650 managed to escape. Their Grand Master, Jacques de Molay, was burned at the stake on March 18, 1314, marking a tragic end to the order.
Seek Private Audience
In addition to rehabilitation, the plaintiffs are seeking financial compensation for the confiscation of their properties, which they claim were largely handed over to the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, also known as the Knights of Malta.
The group has outlined several specific demands, including the recognition of the Templar priesthood under the Melchizedek rite, permission to establish oratories and chapels, and the return of the Church of Vera Cruz in Segovia.
Moreover, they want all medieval Templars who were tortured or killed to be recognized as martyrs and are asking to form a military body to intervene in religious conflicts.
The order has requested that the Pope issue a decree encompassing all these demands and communicate it to parishes and convents.
Additionally, they seek a private audience with the Pope to discuss their requests in more detail. Historically, this isn't the first time the Sovereign Order of the Temple of Christ has sought rehabilitation, as they have previously filed similar requests in 2005, 2006, and 2007, as well as ordinary lawsuits in subsequent years.
