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The Modern Order of Saint Lazarus
A history of the Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint
Lazarus of Jerusalem in the last half century
The Modern Order of Saint Lazarus
A history of the Military and Hospitaller Order of
Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem in the last half century
Office of the Grand Archivist & Historian - MHOSLJ
Torri ta’ Lanzun, Malta
2014
Copyright © 2014 by The Office of the Grand Archivist & Historian of the Military & Hospitaller Order
of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem.
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or
transmitted in any form by any means: electronic, electrostatic, magnetic, tape, mechanical
photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of the Publisher.
For permission to use material from this book please contact the publisher:
Office of the Grand Archivist & Historian, Torri ta’ Lanzun, Mensija, San Gwann, Malta
The Modern Order of Saint Lazarus
Contents
1. General history of the Order
a. The historical developments in the last half century
b. The properties of the Order
c. The Schismatic Groups of the Order of Saint Lazarus – a background to their history
d. Bid to acquire King George V Hospital in Malta
e. The legal development of the Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus
2. National jurisdictions
a. The Grand Priory of Australia
b. The Grand Priory of Canada
c. The Grand Priory of the Maltese Islands
d. The Delegation of Norway
e. La Grand Priore en España
f. The Grand Bailiwick of Luxembourg
g. The Order in Scotland
3. Hereditary & Grand Commandery jurisdictions
a. The Grand Commandery of the Castello
The Modern Order of Saint Lazarus
1. General History of the Order
The Modern Order of Saint Lazarus
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The historical developments in the last half century Chev. Charles Savona-Ventura
Grand Archivist & Historian
The turmoil of the Second World War necessitated a re-organization of the Military and
Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus managed since 1935 by H.R.H. Francisco de Paula de Borbón y de
la Torre as 44th Grand Master helped by his son Francisco Enrique de Borbón y de Borbón as
coadjutor.1 “Having considered the advantages which would accrue from the adaptation to the
present times of rules, usages and customs which over the centuries have served to regulate the
Order of St. Lazarus”, the Grand Master on the 26th May 1948 issued by decree a revision of the
statutes of the Order.2 The statutes placed all power absolutely and irrevocably in the hands of the
Grand Master who was to select the high dignitaries to constitute the Central Government or Grand
Magistracy. Once the post of Grand Master was vacated, a new Grand Master was to be nominated
by the knights convened as a Chapter General, though the coadjutor held primary rights of
succession. The spiritual powers attached to the Grand Mastership were exercised by the Spiritual
Grand Prior of the Order Maximos IV Sayegh, the Melkite Patriarch.3 The titular seat was identified
to be in Madrid. Membership remained restricted to Roman Catholics.
H.R.H. Francisco de Paula de Borbón y de la Torre
44th
Grand Master 1935-1952
H.B. Maximos IV Sayegh
Spiritual Grand Prior 1948-1967
1 The Green Cross – La Croix de Sinople, 1962, 1(i):p.4-6
2 An English translation of the fundamental constitution of the Order, as promulgated by the 44
th Grand Master, the Duke of
Seville, in 1948. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1972. Based on a translation made by Chev. Richard Flores Martin [abbreviated subsequently as: English translation, 1972]. 3 The 1948 Spanish statutes make no mention of a Spiritual Protector. The term was actually used for the first time by GM
decree 4/1969. The 1972 translation of the 1948 statutes actually discussed the issue stating that the correct term should have been Spiritual Patron rather than protector, since it argues that protection truly lies with sovereignty. The Pope as head of the Vatican State can be considered as a Sovereign Protector, but the Melkite Patriarch can really only be considered a Spiritual Patron. The first individual to be titled “grand prieur au spirituel” within the Order was the Bishop of Cesarea Bonaventure Rousseau de Bazoches in 1664 appointed after an Extraordinary Chapter held at the Carmes des Billettes on the 5
th April 1664. See: H.M. de Langle & J.L. de Treourret de Kerstrat. Les Ordres de Saint Lazare de Jerusalem
et de Notre-Dame du Mont-Carme aux XVIIe et XVIIIe siecles. Publications LTK, Paris, 1992, p.108-109.
The Modern Order of Saint Lazarus
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The Grand Master Francisco de Paula de Borbón y de la Torre died on the 6th December 1952. In
accordance with the 1948 statutes, the Grand Referendary Marquis de Cardenas de Montehermoso
and the Grand Capitular Chev. Bertrand de la Gassière made representations to the coadjutor
enquiring whether he would accept succession. On the 7th January 1953, H.R.H. Francisco Enrique de
Borbón y de Borbón Duke of Seville accepted his nomination and assumed the management as
Lieutenant General of the Grand Magistry. On the 17th December 1959, he was formally invested as
the 45th Grand Master.4
H.R.H. Francisco Enrique de Borbón y de Borbón Duke of Seville
Lieutenant General of the Grand Magistry 1953-1959; 45th
Grand Master 1959-1967
Grand Master emeritus 1967-1970; 46th
Grand Master 1973-1995
Because of his military commitments and Spanish residence, the new Grand Master was unable
to dedicate himself completely to the Order. By Magistral Decree dated 30th June 1956, the Duke of
Seville appointed H.E. Pierre Timoleon de Cossé-Brissac [b.1900, d.1993] as Administrator General of
the Order in Paris. The other officials of the Supreme Council included: the Grand Referendary
Marquis de Cardenas de Montehermoso [b.1887 d.1965], the Grand Capitular Chev. Paul Bertrand
de la Grassiére [b.1895], the Grand Chancellor Chev. Guy Coutant de Saisseval [b.1913 d.2002], and
the Grand Spiritual Prior S.Ex. Rev. Georges Hakin Archbishop of Acre, Nazareth, Bethlehem and all
Galilee [b.1908 d.2001; eventually elected Patriarch as H.B. Maximos V in 1967].5
4 The Green Cross – La Croix de Sinople, 1962, 1(i):p.4-6 5 The Green Cross – La Croix de Sinople, 1962, 1(i):p.6-11; The Green Cross – La Croix de Sinople, 1965, 1(iii-iv):p.7-9
The Modern Order of Saint Lazarus
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Pierre Timoleon de Cossé-Brissac
Administrator General
Paul Bertrand de la Gassière
Grand Capitular
Guy Coutant de Saisseval
Grand Chancellor
S.Ex. Rev. Georges Hakin [H.B. Maximos V] Grand Spiritual Prior
In 1960, LtCol Robert Gayre of Gayre and Nigg, Baron of Lochoreshire was approached by the
Paris administration of the Order with a request to undertake the redevelopment of the Order in the
English-speaking world.6 The re-institution of the English Tongue was formally declared on the 25th
November 1961 at a dinner held in the Caledonian Hotel in Edinburgh under the Presidency of the
Commissioner General and Grand Bailiffiship General for the English Tongue LtCol Gayre. The
Commissionerate was officially inaugurated on the 15th September 1962. This led to the
establishment of various commanderies and delegations in the United Kingdom and other
Commonwealth countries.7
6 R. Gayre. Gayre of Gayre & Nigg. An Autobiography. Edinburgh Impressions Ltd., Edinburgh, 1987, p.140. The Order had a
branch in the United States extant since about 1936. R.E. Hartwell. The Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem Upon and Beyond the Seas. The Grand Priories of the United States of America. The Augustian Society Information Bulletin, 1965, 8(3):p.2-8 7 The Green Cross – La Croix de Sinople, 1962, 1(i):p.18-28; The Green Cross – La Croix de Sinople, 1963, 1(ii):p.23-31
The Modern Order of Saint Lazarus
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LtCol Robert Gayre of Gayre and Nigg
Commissioner General for the English Tongue
Perpetual Commandery of the Island of Saint Lazarus of Venice
Grand Priory of the Holy Land
Grand Priory of Spain
Grand Priory of France
Grand Priory of the Low Countries
Grand Priory of Poland
Grand Priory of Bohemia
Grand Priory of Switzerland & Liechtenstein
Grand Priory of Portugal
Grand Priory of Hungary
Grand Priory of Germany
Grand Priory of Sweden
Grand Bailiwick of Greece
Grand Bailiwick of Romania
Grand Bailiwick of Bulgaria
Bailiwick of Georgie
Delegation of Belgium
Grand Priory of Mexico
Delegation of the Republic of Argentina
Delegation of the Republic of Panama
Delegation of the Republic of Venezuela
Delegation of Columbia
Delegation of the Equator
Delegation of the Republic of Bolivia
Delegation of Haiti
Grand Bailiwick of Scotland
Grand Bailiwick of England
Grand Bailiwick of Ireland
Grand Bailiwick of Canada
Grand Bailiwick of the United States
Bailiwick of Wales
Bailiwick of Australia
Bailiwick of New Zealand
Bailiwick of South Africa
Bailiwick of Rhodesia
Commandery of India
Commandery of West Africa
Commandery of Thailand
Commandery of Ethiopia
Commandery of Tanzania
Commandery of Malawi
Delegation of Malta
Jurisdictions within the Order: 19658
8 La Croix de Sinople – The Green Cross, 1965, 1(3/4), p.22-31; Green Cross Booklets, 1965, 6:p.11-12
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After the death of the Marquis Cardenas de Montehermoso, the geographical administrative
separation from Madrid engendered by the appointment of an Administrator General localised in
Paris became a source of much friction and misunderstanding that was to punctate events right
through the subsequent decades. In 1967, the Paris administration circulated correspondence
claiming lack of interest by the Grand Master in the exercise of his duties because of his military
duties in the Spanish Army. A Chapter General in Paris was announced for the 17th May 1967. The
Chapter General attended mainly by French knights voted H.R.H. Prince Charles Philippe d ’Orleans,
Duke of Nemours, Vendome and Alencon as the 46th Grand Master.9 The Magistral Seat of the Order
was thus transferred from Madrid to Boigny, while the Administrative Seat was transferred to Paris.
Not unexpectedly, the Spanish Grand Priory led by H.R.H. Francesco Enrique de Borbón withdrew
from the Order and so initiated the first of the modern-day schisms between the Spanish and Paris
groups.10
Meeting of the members of the Grand Magistry at Boigny in 1968
Guy Coutant de Saisseval, Grand Master Duke of Nemours, Pierre de Cossé de Brissac, Paul Betrand de la Gassière
The newly elected Duke of Nemours by decree dated 3rd June 1967 initiated administrative
reforms by setting up a Commission to review the Statute and Regulations of the Order. The
finalized statutes were signed at Boigny on the 30th January 1968 but were only formally published
and circulated in 1969. The published statute was found to include statutory modifications which
deprived the Grand Master and the knights of the Order of all fundamental rights placing all
authority and appointment of successors in the hands of the Grand Chancellor [Guy Coutant de
99
LtCol Gayre reports that he was present at this meeting being “the only foreigner there”. He was misled as to the background of the issue, writing: “I found out afterwards that Prince Francesco had not, in fact, wished to resign because of his military duties, but I do not believe the Duke of Nemours knew that. Neither did I.” Vide: R. Gayre, 1987, op. cit., p.144-145 10
A short résumé of the history of the Order including the events which led to the establishment of a rebel group in France. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1972, p.10 [abbreviated subsequently as: Short resumé, 1972].
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Saisseval], the Grand Administrator [Duke of Brissac] and the Grand Capitular [Paul Bertrand de la
Grassiére].11
This brought the Duke of Nemours in direct confrontation with the Paris group. The Paris rebels
led by Pierre de Cossé, Duke of Brissac and Administrator General of the Order on the 10th February
1969 circulated a notice calling for a Chapter General with the aim of replacing the Grand Master
with the management being assumed by the Duke of Brissac.12 On the same day, the Grand Master
the Duke of Nemours also circulated his view point to all heads of jurisdictions on the matter
emphasising his planned organizational reforms. He further asked that they “will kindly signify to me
at an early date, and not later by the end of February whether you and your officers are in favour of
these reforms……if I have your considered views at this stage it will enable me to make progress in
what I am sure are reforms which will be very much to your advantage and the members of your
jurisdiction since for the first time they will give you all a participation in the government of the
Order which you have not enjoyed in the past. If anyone disagrees with these proposals, I shall of
course be willing to hear his reasons.”13 The Paris rebels called a “Chapter General” on the 15th April
1969 to initiate a ballot with the aim of deposing the Grand Master for alleged “faute grave”. The
Grand Referendary and the Grand Master responded on the 22nd March stating that they considered
the ballot and Chapter general “rigged”. They outlined the consequences of the actions stating that
“the majority of the jurisdictions of the Order have already assured the Grand Master of their
support, and the ‘rigged’ Chapter-General will be ignored, the Grand Master will issue new
constitutional decrees of a representative character, all members and affiliates who send to him
their loyalty will be placed on the active list, and the rest suspended. Disloyal jurisdictions will be
disbanded, and new ones formed in those countries.”14
During Chapter-General, the Administrator General H.E. Pierre Timoleon de Cossé Duke of Brissac
was elected the 47th Supreme Head of the Order with 265 votes in favour of the Duke of Brissac and
83 votes in favour of the Duke of Nemours. It was alleged that the voting was rigged with the ballot
paper being sent late or not sent at all to known opponents to the Duke of Brissac and a pre-
electoral upgrade of the French affiliate members to knights to ensure their eligibility to vote to bias
the result. This decision was considered “illegal” and was not supported by the majority of the other
jurisdictions who continued to view the Duke of Nemours as the only legitimate Grand Master. The
jurisdictions supporting the Duke of Nemours included Ireland, Switzerland, South Africa, Malta,
USA, Australia, New Zealand, Holland, Spain, Sweden, and Armenia. Most of the Scottish members
were considered to remain loyal. Those jurisdictions in favour of the Duke of Brissac included France,
England and Canada, though the latter jurisdictions had members who still remained loyal. Bulgaria
and Bohemia remained neutral.15 Legal proceedings were initiated by the Grand Master in France
against the Duke of Brissac and Paul Bertrand de la Gassière who with Guy Countant de Saisseval
11
Short Resumé, 1972, op. cit., p.10-11; Régles, Statuts et Coutumes de l’Ordre de Saint-Lazare de Jérusalem. MHOSLJ, Paris, 1968. 12
Ouverture du Chapitre Général de l’Ordre 1969 [with accompanying documents dated 10th
February 1969]. Archives: Grand Priory of the Maltese Islands - MHOSLJ 13
Circular: For the information of Members of the Order dated 10th
February 1969. Archives: Grand Priory of the Maltese Islands - MHOSLJ 14
Personal Statement by the Grand Referendary concerning the present difficulties and rebellion against the Grand Master. Archives: Grand Priory of the Maltese Islands – MHOSLJ; Circular letter from the Grand Master dated 22
nd March 1969.
Archives: Grand Priory of the Maltese Islands - MHOSLJ 15
Letter from Chev J. Amato Gauci to the Duke of Nemours dated 22nd
April 1969. MHOSLJ Archives B10:2; Letter from A.R. Hughes Chancellor of the New Zealand Bailiwick to Lt.Col. Gayre dated 29
th April 1969. MHOSLJ Archives B10:7
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were suspended from the Offices they held previously.16 These actions led to a second schism within
the structure of the Order with the majority of jurisdictions following the Duke of Nemours and
others following the Duke of Brissac. The Spanish group continued to support the Duke of Seville.
H.R.H. Prince Charles Philippe d’Orleans, Duke of Nemours
46th
Grand Master 1967-1970
Boosted by the support of the majority of the jurisdictions making up the Order, the Duke of
Nemours continued throughout 1969 with his constitutional reforms aimed at abolishing sectarian
differences thus making the Order ecumenical and re-establishing the fundamental rights previously
defined by the 1948 Statutes. In addition, amendments to the Statute were made to define the
administrative structure and workings of the Order. The Grand Master was confirmed as the
Supreme Head of the Order and the only one empowered to amend the Statutes and Regulations.
The role of the Spiritual Protector was further defined and confirmed to reside in the person of His
Beatitude Maximos V, the Greek Melkite Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, of Jerusalem and
Alexandria. The post of Spiritual Grand Prior of the whole Order, previously occupied by the
Patriarch, was filled by the Greek Melkite Archbishop of St Jean d’Acre, Nazareth and Galilee. A
number of Vice-Chanceries were further authorised to deal with the jurisdictions within their
competence. 17 By Decree dated 15th April 1969, H.R.H. Prince Michael of France was nominated as
Coadjutor with rights of succession subject to confirmation.18 The previous 45th Grand Master
Francois de Borbón y de Borbón was invited to assume the title of Grand Master Emeritus, Grand
Commander, Lieutenant General and Grand Prior of Spain ensuring the return of the Spanish
members to the mainline Order.19 The Titular Seat of the Order was established in Boigny; while the
seat of the Chancery and administration of the Order were transferred from Paris to Malta.20
16
An Introduction to the Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem. MHOSLJ, Malta, n.d. (¬1971), p.7 [abbreviated subsequently as: Introduction, 1971]; Letter dated 5
th May 1969 from the Grand Referendary to J. Amato Gauci. Archives: Grand Priory of
the Maltese Islands – MHOSLJ; Letter dated 5th
May 1969 from Grand Referendary to M. Le Comte Rene de Chabrun. MHOSLH Archives B10:6 17
Constitutional Decrees – 46th
Grand Master H.R.H. Prince Charles Philip of Orleans, Duke of Nemours, Vendome, and Alencon. MHOSLJ, Netherlands, 1969, +32p. [abbreviated subsequently as: Constitutional decrees, 1969] 18
GM Decree No.15/1969. 19
Letter from Chev E. Zammit Secretary General to Chev Maitre Dr. D. Pannef and others dated 4th
September 1969. MHOSLJ Archives B10:26 20
Introduction, 1971, op. cit., p.7-8
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Transmarinus or Overseas Territories sited in Edinburgh incorporating English-speaking countries except North America
Delegation of Australia
Grand Priory of England
Grand Priory of Ireland
Grand Bailiwick of New Zealand
Commandery of Rhodesia
Grand Priory of Scotland
Grand Bailiwick of South Africa
North American Tongue in Canada Grand Priory of America
Commandery of the Holy Trinity (Canada)
French Tongue in Paris with a Delegation in Geneva
Commandery of Boigny (France)
German Tongue in Zurich Delegation of Germany
Grand Priory of Switzerland
Italian and Maltese Tongue in Malta with a Vice-Chancery in Italian Switzerland
Priory of Malta
Delegation of Gozo
Spanish Tongue in Madrid Grand Priory of Spain
Delegation of Nicaragua
Delegation of Venezuela
Portuguese Tongue in Lisbon Delegation of the Portuguese tongue
Tongue of the Low Countries in The Netherlands
Delegation of Belgium
Scandinavian Tongue in Stockholm Delegation of Finland
Priory of Denmark & Greenland
Grand Priory of Sweden
Delegation of Iceland
Central and Eastern Europe (in exile) in Paris
Grand Priory of Armenia in Exile
Grand Priory of Bulgaria in Exile
Grand Priory of Hungary in Exile
Grand Priory of Rumania in Exile
Titular Hereditary Commanderies Hereditary Commandery of De la Motte de Courtils (France)
Hereditary Commandery of Burton Lazar (England)
Hereditary Commandery of St. Mary of Magdalene of Linlithgow (Scotland)
Hereditary Commandery of Lochore (Scotland)
List of Vice-Chanceries and Jurisdictions of the Order under the Duke of Nemours, 1969-197221
21
Constitutional Decrees, 1969, op. cit., p.5-6; Introduction, 1971, op. cit., p.9; Report of the Grand Magisterial Council held in Liège 3
rd and 4
th June 1972. Continuation of list of members, amendments and audited accounts. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1972,
p.7 [abbreviated subsequently as: Report - Liège, 1972]
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In 1969, the Maltese Sir Hannibal Publius Scicluna was appointed Grand Chancellor and the seat
of the Chancery and administration of the Order was transferred from Paris to Malta [Decree
No.3/1969].22 Efforts were made to find a suitable locality to house the Grand Chancery. The
members of the Priory of Malta quickly took the initiative to propose that suitable sites for housing
the Grand Chancellery and suggested the soon-to-vacate Admiralty House and the St. John
Counterguard. Other buildings, schedule to be vacated by the British Services, were discussed with
the Malta Government Lands Department.23 However, none of these initiatives gave the desired
positive results. Efforts were also made towards seeking a re-unification with the Duke of Brissac
fraction, in spite of the statement issued by the French group in response to the Magistral Council
held in Malta by the Duke of Nemours fraction on the 3-5th October 1969.24
In the midst of these reforms and re-organization, the Grand Master suddenly died on the 10th
March 1970. In accordance with the Statute, the Coadjutor H.R.H. Michel de Orleans assumed the
interim Grand Magistry with the full support of all the jurisdictions writing: “Pendant la passé de
temps que duréra notre interim et Durant lequel Nous promettons de servire l’Ordre de Notre mieux,
Nous demandons á nos confréres de Nous garder la fidélité et le dévouement dont ils ont fait preuve
á l’égard du Duke of Nemours et Nous éspérons qu’ils aideront de même le futur Grand’Maître
Général." He was however not willing to assume the Grand Mastership because of his personal
commitments. A decision was therefore made to offer the Grand Mastership to H.R.H. Francisco de
Borbón y Borbón.25
In the interim, Michel de Orleans continued with the administrative reforms initiated by the Duke
of Nemours. This included the move to transfer the administrative headquarters from Paris to Malta.
In 1971, LtCol Gayre undertook the purchase of a dilapidated fortified farmhouse in Malta locally
known as Torri ta’ Lanzun with the aim of adapting this as the Grand Chancery of the Order. The
restoration was made possible through donation made by various members of the Order.26 On the 3-
4th June 1972, a Grand Magistral Council Meeting was held in Liège to discuss primarily the proposals
for the election of the new Grand Master, and review the Statutes of the Order. The GMC Meeting
was presided by the Grand Referandary Lt.Col. Gayre due to the absence of the coadjutor H.R.H.
Prince Michael de Orleans and the Grand Commander H.R.H. Prince Francois de Borbón.27 The
fraction under the jurisdiction of Michel de Orleans amounted to a total of 664 members by June
1971, increasing to 707 members by June 1972.28
22
Constitutional decrees, 1969, op. cit., p.3,30 23
Archives of the Grand Priory of the Maltese Islands: 1966-1971. Minute notes dated 5th
March 1969 and 27th
February 1971; Letter from the Grand Master to Hon. Dr. Tommaso Caruana Demajo M.P. dated 12
th March 1969. MHOSLJ Archives
B10:39 24
Statement from the Grand Magistracy and the Constitutional Council of the Order in Paris dated 25th
February 1970 & Response to statement by the Grand Chancery in Malta. MHOSLJ Archives B10:201A; Letter from Chev. J. Amato Gauci to Prof. Dr. W. Michel dated 20
th April 1970. MHOSLJ Archives B10:200; Response to Paris statement
25 A suggestion to appoint Francisco de Borbón y Borbón had been made as early as April 1970. Vide: Letter from Chev Y.
der Hagopian de Nederli to Chev Gayre dated 25th
April 1970. MHOSLJ Archives B10:191 26
Inauguration of the Grand Chancery, Malta; Report on Chapter General held on 11th and 12th May 1973. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1973, p.3-4, 10-11 [abbreviated subsequently as: Inauguration - Malta, 1973] 27
White Paper concerning Act of Recognition. MHOSLJ, Malta, n.d. [¬1971], p.11-13 [abbreviated subsequently as: White Paper, 1971]; Report – Liège, 1972, op. cit. 28
Letter from Chev. J.V. Abela and Chev J. Amato Gauci to the President of the International Orders’ Commission dated 30th
April 1970. MHOSL:J Archives B10:204; Report – Liège, 1972, op.cit., p.7. Members: GCLJ/DGCLJ – 37, KCLJ – 8, KLJ/DLJ – 328; Affiliates: CLJ – 179; OLJ – 97, MLJ – 58.
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Following several representations, on the 27th January 1973 the Grand Chancellor circulated a
confidential circular stating that “H.R.H. Prince Francesco de Borbón y Borbón, 45th Grand Master
Emeritus, Grand Commander, has intimated that he would be prepared to consider being confirmed
as the 47th Grand Master of the Order. Kindly let me know as early as possible in the STRICTEST
CONFIDENCE what would be your reaction to the confirmation of H.R.H. as 47th Grand Master.”29 The
general response for this proposal from the various jurisdictions was favourable and on the 22nd
March 1973, H.R.H. Francisco Enrique de Borbón y de Borbón was re-established as the Grand
Master. H.R.H. Michel de Orleans retained his post of coadjutor, LtCol Robert Gayre was appointed
Grand Commander, the Marquis de Haro as Grand Referendary, and Chev. Joseph Amato Gauci was
appointed Grand Chancellor and Custodian of the Treasury.
Chev. LtCol Robert Gayre
Grand Commander
Chev. Joseph Amato Gauci
Grand Chancellor
Marquis de Haro
Grand Referendary
The Chapter General was held in Malta on the 11-15th May 1973 under the chairmanship of the
newly elected Grand Master. On the 12th May 1973, the 47th Grand Master formally inaugurated
Torri ta’ Lanzun (Castello Lanzun) in Malta as the official headquarters and Administrative Seat of the
Order. The Titular Seat was established in Madrid, while the Titular Commandery in Boigny.30 A
limited edition of 300 commemorative bronze 33 mm diameter medals were struck for the occasion
initiating a renewal of the 17-18th century tradition of issuing commemorative jetons. The obverse
side shows Castelo Lanzun in semi relief in the centre with the word “MALTA” above and below “12
V 1973”. The reverse depicts the eight-pointed cross in the centre surrounded by a scroll reading
“ORDO MILIT ET HOSPIT SANCTI LAZARI HIEROSOLYMITANI”. This was hung on a 33 mm wide ribbon
of purple edged with green.31
29
Confidential Circular from J. Amato Gauci Grand Chancellor dated 27th
January 1973. MHOSLJ Archives, Torri ta’ Lanzun, Malta 30
Inauguration – Malta, 1973, op. cit.; Order of St Lazarus headquarters to be inaugurated. Times of Malta, 12th
May, p.20. 31
Stuart G. Morris of Balgonie, The Insignia and Decorations of the Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem. MHOSLJ: Perthshire, Scotland, 1986; International Lazarite 1975, 1(3):79-80
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Commemorative Medal - 1973
Inauguration of Castello Lanzun, 12
th May 1973
The subsequent Grand Magistral Meeting was held in Edinburgh in August 1974. A decision was
taken to review the constitution consolidating all the rules and regulations governing the Order. This
was entrusted to Chev. Paneff, Cdr. Mitchell L. Lanthrop, and A. Russel Murray. The draft
constitution was presented during the Grand Magistral Meeting was held in Malta on the 24-25th
September 1977.32 These statutes were published by GM decree 55/ 79 dated the 15th May 1979.33
32
Report of the Grand Magistral Council held in Malta 23rd
– 24th
September 1977. MHOSLJ, Netherlands, 1977 [abbreviated subsequently as: Report – Malta, 1977] 33
Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem. 47th
Grand Master H.R.H. Prince Francesco Enrique de Bortbon y de Borbon – Constitutional decrees. MHOSLJ, The Netherlands, 1979.
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After publication of the revised statutes of the Malta Obedience, a response was sent by Cdr.
Lanthrop at the request of the Grand Prior of America Chev Hans von Leden stating that while “the
document was clearly based in substantial part upon the work which Mr. Murray and I did” …… the
new document makes some fundamental, sweeping changes in the entire structure of the Order and
radically alters certain traditions which have been in existence since the very founding of the Order.
….. There are two major changes which have been made in what I shall refer to as the ‘Lathrop-
Murray’ version, these being: (1) the method of election the Grand Master; and (2) The method of
amending the constitution. ….. Instead of following the traditional approach which has always
existed in the Order, the new constitution eliminates the mandate that a Chapter General must be
called almost immediately upon the death of the Grand Master. Rather the Supreme Council (which
is, of course, appointed by the Grand Master) may decree that the Coadjutor may succeed the Grand
Master, thereby becoming Head of the Order and eliminating the right of the Chapter General to
elect the Grand Master. …… The new version of the constitution again shifts the fundamental power
structure from the members to the Grand Master and Supreme Council and virtually eliminates the
right of the members to have a voice in the alteration or amendment of the constitution.”34
In 1975, the members of the Association d’Alsace des Chevaliers de Saint Lazare, previously under
the Duke of Crossé-Brissac fraction, declared their allegiance to the Grand Master and in December
1975 a new Priory of Alsace was inaugurated. The coadjutor H.R.H. Prince Michael de Orleans
resigned his post and he was replaced by H.R.H. Francisco de Paula de Borbón y Escasany, 5th Duke
of Seville. The Order continued to expand its membership. By 1977, the effective membership of the
Order under H.R.H. Francesco de Borbón numbered 1416 including 725 members [DLJ/KLJ,
DCLJ/KCLJ, DGCLJ.GCLJ], 619 affiliates [MLJ, OLJ, CLJ], and 72 clergy. During the Grand Magistral
Meeting held in Malta in September 1977, Chev. De Beaugour Bailiff of Boigny suggested that the
Order should consider acquiring the farm and tower of the Chateau of Boigny. This was achieved in
the subsequent months and an association composed of French citizens was set up in February 1981
under the Grand Priory of Alsace to ensure the proper management and maintenance of the
property.35
Torri ta’ Lanzun, San Gwann, Malta
Chateau de Boigny, France
34
Letter from Cdr. Mitchell L. Lathrop to Grand Master H.R.H. Prince Francesco Enrique de Borbón de Borbón dated 26th
August 1979. MHOSLJ Archives 35
Report – Malta, 1977, op. cit.; Report of the Grand Magistral Council held in Edinburgh, Scotland, 23rd
– 24th
June 1980. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1980 [abbreviated subsequently as: Report – Edinburgh, 1980]; Report of the Grand Magistral Council held in Helsinki, Finland, 7
th – 8
th September 1982. MHOSLJ, Finland, 1982 [abbreviated subsequently as: Report – Finland,
1982]; Saint Lazarus Newsletter, No. 12, May 1998, p.9-10
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The Order remained split into two fractions: those loyal to the Spanish de Borbón Grand Master
and the other loyal to the French Duke of Brissac. While each branch followed its own course, many
knights from both sides became even more concerned about the situation which was prejudicial to
its prestige, diluted its good work and gave ammunition to its detractors.36 Partisans of reunification
from both sides of the Order attempted to negotiate the reunification conditions with prudence and
determination. In 1979, representatives of the Grand Priory of Canada (de Brissac fraction) and the
Grand Priory of America (de Borbón fraction) met in Canada to discuss the potential for
reunification. Recommendations made from both sides led to an agreement signed in 1979 by both
Grand Masters and most of the Heads of Jurisdictions of both branches. In a spirit of knightly
confraternity, it was decided that each side would give up its vain quarrels and would work to
achieve reunification. Each side would retain its structure and identity – the branch governed by the
Duke of Seville would be known as the "Malta Obedience", while that governed by the Duke of
Brissac would be known as the "Paris Obedience". The spiritual unity of the Order was to be assured
by the Spiritual Protector H.B. Maximos V. Hakim. 37
Official and non-official contacts between officials of the two obediences continued to be made
to discuss and arbitrate a reunification. In 1981, the members of the two obediences in Canada
organised a joint meeting and investiture under the auspices of the Spiritual Protector, His Beatitude
Maximos V Hakim. They subsequently elected a common Grand Prior of Canada effectively joining
together in a single unified Grand Priory. This step was positively viewed by the American
jurisdictions who were viewing the European divisions with distaste. The adoption of this solution by
the two American obediences would have effectively resulted in the creation of a third 1200-
member strong North American “obedience” under the patronage of H.B. the Patriarch.
Representations continued to be made in attempts to achieve reunification. A meeting was held
in Paris in the Spring of 1983 between Vice-Chancellor James Algrant and Chev. Jean de Beaugour of
the Malta Obedience and Chancellor Guy Coutant de Saisseval of the Paris Obedience. This led to the
proposal of establishing an “Alliance of Saint Lazarus” under the patronage of H.B. Maximos V
presiding over an executive council made up of members appointed by each respective grand
master. While aiming to promote fraternity between the members of the two obediences, the
Alliance would be careful not to infringe upon the autonomy of either obedience. The concept of
such an alliance as proposed appeared to be acceptable to the two fractions.38
36
Anon. (1970). The legitimacy of the Order. Malta: MHOSLJ. 37
Report – Finland, 1980, op. cit., p.69-70 38
Annex 1 – Proposal for an Alliance of Saint Lazarus. In: James J. Algrant y Canete. An up-date to the History of the Order 1984-1987 published privately for the Historical Study Group. The author, 2004 [abbreviated subsequently as: Update 1984-1987, 2004]
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H.R.H. Francisco Enrique de Borbón y de Borbón
Grand Master – Malta Obedience
H.E. Pierre Timoleon de Cossé-Brissac
Grand Master – Paris Obedience
A Grand Magistral Council Meeting of the Malta Obedience was scheduled to be held in
Washington on the 12-14th July 1984. The host jurisdiction, who had been urging a reunification for
some time, suggested inviting a guest delegation from the Paris Obedience. These were to include
the coadjutor Marquis de Brissac, son of the Grand Master of the Paris Obedience, and Chev. Guy
Coutant de Saisseval. The meeting was very well attended with many jurisdictions sending
representatives. It was further attended by the Grand Master of the Malta Obedience.39 A document
outlining proposals for the terms of unification was presented during the meeting. The proposal
created a Committee under H.B. the Patriarch whose aim was to investigate, consider, supervise and
resolve the practical problems which will arise as a result of the reunification process. The six
members to serve on this committee, preferably reflecting equal representation from both
obediences, were to be chosen by the Patriarch. This effectively made this committee the supreme
body with the Patriarch being de facto Head of the Order. Both Obediences would continue to
function independently under the two reigning grand masters. It however envisaged that upon the
demise of one grand master, the surviving grand master will become emeritus and a Chapter
General of both Obediences will be convened to elect a new grand master who could only be a
person “of direct issue of such royal, princely, or noble family from which Grand Masters have come
in the past.” All officials within the hierarchy of the two Obediences were however to remain in
office for their life-time. The listed officers included the two Grand Masters, the elected coadjutor of
the Paris Obedience, the Grand Commander of the Malta Obedience, and the two Grand
Chancellors.40
This memorandum was viewed very positively by the delegates of the Paris Obedience who
envisaged that on the death of a grand master, their coadjutor would rule the Order until a Chapter
General of both Obediences is convened. An election then was most likely to swing in favour of the
Paris Obedience coadjutor since he enjoyed the support of the members of the Paris Obedience and
39
Report of the Grand Magistral Council held in Washington, D.C., U.S.A., 12th
– 15th
July 1984. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1984 [abbreviated subsequently as: Report – Washington, 1984] 40
Memorandum - Unification of the Two Obediences of the Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem dated 13
th July 1984. Annex 5 in: Update1984-1987, 2004, op. cit.
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the members of both obediences in Canada and America. On the other hand, the blatant and
obvious exclusion of the coadjutor of the Malta Obedience from the list of officials was unacceptable
and viewed with suspicion by the Grand Master of the Malta Obedience. He argued that the
succession issue should state that “upon the demise of one Grand Master, the surviving Grand
Master shall become sole Grand Master of the unified Order, and only after the death of the
surviving one shall a Chapter General be convened to elect the new Grand Master.” This led to a
breakdown in the reunification negotiations.41
Notwithstanding the disagreement voiced by the Grand Master of the Malta Obedience, the
Patriarch set about establishing the Reunification Committee appointing Chev de la Pradelle, Dr
Ferdinand Mencik and Chev Col Frank McEachren to represent the Paris Obedience. Since the Grand
Master of the Malta Obedience refused to accept the validity of the Reunification Committee,
finding representatives of the Malta Obedience proved more difficulty. Eventually Chev Salgo, Chev.
LtCom Gayre and the Prince of Lippe accepted to serve on the committee.42 The Malta Obedience
Grand Master proposed that direct negotiations with the Paris Obedience representatives should be
made without recourse to the Patriarch Reunification Committee. He identified Chev Algrant and
Chev de Beaugour to represent him in these discussions.43 During a meeting of the Supreme Council
held in Madrid on the 12th October 1985, LtCol Gayre was suspended from the Order and relieved of
his administrative duties.44
Commemorative Medal
Washington, U.S.A. Meeting, 1984
Commemorative Medal
Oxford, England Meeting, 1986
Various representations were made by the two appointed representatives of the Grand Master
with the Patriarch Reunification Committee. In spite of these efforts, no consensus was reached to
enable breaking the impasse. In spite of the lack of preliminary agreement, the Spiritual Protector in
1986 called a Joint Chapter General for both Obediences in Oxford with the aim of finalizing the
reunification and elect a new Grand Master. Three individuals were nominated for the election –
H.E. François Marquis de Brissac previous coadjutor of the Paris Obedience, H.R.H. Francisco Enrique
de Borbón y de Borbón Grand Master of the Malta Obedience, and the German Prince Ernst-August
zur Lippe. Francesco Enrique de Borbón withdrew his nomination threatening legal action and
advised the members of his Obedience to boycott the meeting and shortly before the meeting,
41
Update1984-1987, 2004, op. cit. 42
These three individuals had all expressed their viewpoint that the Order should be reunified but under no circumstances that it should be reunified under the present legitimate Grand Master. Vide Update1984-1987, 2004, op. cit., p.21 43
Update1984-1987, 2004, op. cit. 44
Circular letter to all Heads of Jurisdictions and Members of the Supreme Council sent by the Grand Master Francesco E. Borbón y de Borbón dated 18
th March 1986. MHOSLJ Archives
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called a counter-meeting in Luxembourg. According to the terms of the 1984 Washington
Agreement, the Prince zur Lippe was ineligible for nomination since he was not a member of a
“family from which Grand Masters have come in the past.” The Oxford meeting was attended by 440
delegates representing the Paris Obedience and the American and Canadian Grand Priories. Overall,
a 1229 votes were cast in person or by proxy – 1034 favouring H.E. François Marquis de Brissac, 138
for the Prince zur Lippe, and 57 for H.R.H. Francisco Enrique de Borbón y de Borbón. The Marquis de
Brissac was acclaimed as the 48th Grand Master of what was termed the "United Order". The past
Grand Master of the Paris Obedience H.E. Pierre de Brissac was elected Grand Master emeritus.45
The Malta Obedience went ahead with the scheduled meeting in Luxembourg on the 12-14th
November 1986. Attended by only about fifty delegates representing various jurisdictions, the Grand
Master refused to acknowledge the validity of the Oxford election and resolved to carry on as
before. Instead of the desired reunification, the Patriarch Reunification Committee resulted only in a
realignment of allegiances. The Paris Obedience became the stronger branch having acquired the
comparatively large American jurisdiction as well as those of England, Lochore, Holland and others.
The Malta Obedience continued to be supported by several jurisdictions in Europe, including Spain,
Malta, Italy, Finland-Norway-Sweden, Luxembourg, Hungary-in-exile, Germany, Austria, Alsace, and
Boigny.46 The Spiritual Protector H.B. Maximos V. Hakim withdrew his support from the Malta
Obedience continuing to prefer the Paris Obedience until his retirement in 2000. He was replaced as
Spiritual Grand Prior of the Malta Obedience by Cardinal Silvio Oddi.47
Following the significant loss of membership and jurisdictions following the 1986 Oxford Meeting,
the Malta Obedience initiated a reorganization programme to increase its influence. By 1990, the
membership was augmented to a total of 2103 individuals.48 Attempts to reorganise itself in America
were met by strong opposition by the American Jurisdiction of the Paris Obedience which initiated
legal action to prevent a renewed presence of the Malta Obedience in the United States of
America.49
By 1994, the Malta Obedience was made up of 41 jurisdictions in 27 countries.50 These included:
the 16 Grand Priories/Bailiwicks of Alsace, Austria, England, Finland, France-Boigny,
Hungary, Italy, Luxemburg, Malta, New Zealand, Panama, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, United
States, and Venezuela;
the 15 Priories/Bailiwicks/Commanderies of Belgium, St. Hubertus (Austria), St. Rupertus-
Salzburg (Austria), Berlin-Brandenburg, Castello, The Netherlands, Poland, Alba (Scotland),
Fintan Munnu (Scotland), St. Erik (Sweden), St. Hallvard (Sweden), Alabama (U.S.A.),
California (U.S.A.), Florida (U.S.A.), and Minnesota (U.S.A.);
45
Update1984-1987, 2004, op. cit., p.56 46
Update1984-1987, 2004, op. cit. 47
Saint Lazarus Newsletter, No. 19, November 2001 48
Report of the Grand Magistral Council held in Salzburg, 26th
– 29th
July 1990. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1990 [abbreviated subsequently as: Report – Salzburg, 1990] 49
Sherman, Roger Carlton. MHOSLJ Archives B:94 - Archives of the Grand Bailiwick of the United States: 1961-1989 including the actions against the Order by and the chivalric history of Hans von Leden & other documents relative to the Grand Bailiwick of the United States. Office of the Grand Archivist & Historian, MHOSLJ, 1990 50
Saint Lazarus Newsletter, No. 1, January 1994
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17 | P a g e
the 7 Hereditary Commanderies of Rhineland (Germany), Holy Trinity (Canada), Fanad
(Eire), St. Stephen (N. Ireland), Sigarthstein (Austria), Albatarrec (Spain), and Lochore
(Scotland); and
the 3 Delegations of Andorra, Australia, and St. Olav (Norway).
H.E. 48
th Grand Master – Malta Obedience with officers of the Order at his installation
Milano, Italy 5th
October 1996
Because of ill-health, the Malta Obedience Grand Master H.R.H. Francisco Enrique de Borbón y
de Borbón on the 10th April 1995 delegated the management of the Order to his sons Francisco de
Paula de Borbón y Escasany as coadjutor and Enrique Ignacio de Borbón y Garcia-Lobes as
Lieutenant-General.51 The 47th Grand Master subsequently died on 18th November 1995.52 He was
succeeded to the post by the serving Coadjutor, H.H. Francisco de Paula de Borbón y Escasany, 5th
Duke of Seville, who was declared according to the Order’s Constitution 48th Grand Master-elect of
the Malta Obedience in January 1996 by the Supreme Council. With the consent of the Supreme
Council the new 48th Grand Master-elect appointed H.H. Enrique Ignacio de Borbón y Garcia-Lobez,
Marquis de Vallcarlos as new Coadjutor. The new Grand Chancellor was Chev. Reginald Attard.53
During the Grand Magistral Meeting of the Malta Obedience held in Bristol, England in
September 1995, a Reunification Commission was set up for the purpose of studying ways and
means for an eventual re-unification of both branches of the Order. This was followed by a meeting
with representatives of the Paris Obedience who agreed to bring peace by ceasing all hostile acts,
and then to begin to work together locally and nationally in charitable endeavours and to develop a
Christian attitude of mutual respect by personal contacts such as attendance as guests at each
other’s social functions and ceremonies.54 This was endorsed in written decrees by both Grand
Masters. In 1996, the Grand Chancellor of the Malta Obedience visited the United States and met 51
Saint Lazarus Newsletter, No. 6, September 1995, p.2-4 52
The Grand Master’s death on the 18th
November 1995 preceded the death of two other major players in the administration of the Malta Obedience fraction of the Order: Chev. Joseph Amato Gauci Serving as Grand Commander [died 9
th December 1995] and Chev. Robert Gayre of Gayre and Nigg [died 10
th February 1996]. Vide: Saint Lazarus
Newsletter, No. 8, May 1996, p.2-4,13 53
Saint Lazarus Newsletter, No. 8, May 1996, p.5-6 54
Saint Lazarus Newsletter, No. 10, May 1997, p.2
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with the Grand Prior of America to re-open discussions on reunification. This was followed by a
follow-up meeting between the new Malta Obedience Grand Master and the Grand Prior of America
in Madrid. By February 1998, these discussions enabled the administrative reunification of the two
fractions in the United States, emulating the Canadian model. In 1998, the Grand Priory of America
organized and hosted the 900th Anniversary Pilgrimage by the Order to the Holy Land. This served as
a powerful catalyst for reunification allowing the Grand Masters of the two jurisdictions to meet and
shake hands at the Tomb of our Lord in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. A bilateral commission
was appointed to further the work of reunification.55
The Grand Master Malta Obedience in Jerusalem - 1998
The Duke of Brissac with the Duke of
Westminister Grand Prior of England & Wales
Investiture Eaton Hall, May 1999
The Duke and Duchess of Brissac with Brig. Thomas and Ms. Yarington of the Grand Priory of America in September 1999
55
Saint Lazarus Newsletter, No. 14, April 1999, p.10,12-13
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In a spirit of reconciliation, the Duke of Brissac on the 5th September 2002 announced his
intention to retire on reaching his 75th birthday in 2004 proposing the Duke of Seville to be
appointed Grand Master of the reunited Order while pledging to do all in his power to effect the
complete unification of the Order within the subsequent two years.56 Consequently the International
Chapter General of the Paris Obedience held in Dublin on the 5th September 2002 agreed to the
proposal of the Duke of Brissac. A Joint Constitutional and Reconciliation Committee was formed to
guide the reunification process of the Paris and Malta Obediences under the co-chairmanship of
Chev Reginald S. Attard [Malta Obedience] and Chev Bruce Harrington [Paris Obedience]. In the
subsequent year, the work of this committee progressed smoothly and a memorandum of
understanding was agreed upon by all participants opening the way forward for reconciliation.57
These agreements were fully endorsed by the Grand Magistral Council of the Malta Obedience held
in Vaals, Netherlands on the 7-12th May 2003.58
In the summer of 2003, a group within the Paris Obedience refused to accept the Duke de Seville’s
nomination and appointed Prince Charles Philippe d’Orléans as the new Grand Master of the Paris
Obedience, thereby resulting in a schism within the Paris Obedience giving rise to the Orléans
Obedience.
The Duke of Brissac retired as Grand Master of the Paris Obedience in February 2004. In the
following Chapter General of the Paris Obedience held in Toronto 2004, the Duke of Seville was
confirmed by election by a vote of 542 Knights and Dames for the Duke versus 47 votes for the
Prince Charles Philippe d’ Orléans to be the next Grand Master of the united Order. It was agreed
that the Duke of Brissac would assume the role of Acting Grand Master until the Duke of Seville
could be installed by the Spiritual Protector His Beatitude Patriarch Gregory III. Meanwhile, a
disaffected group of European members, led by the jurisdictions of Ireland and Switzerland, refused
to accept the result of the Toronto election and in the autumn of 2004 elect Prince Charles Philippe
d’Orléans as their 49th Grand Master. In the meantime in September 2003, an attempt at
reorganizing the management of the Malta Obedience resulted in a move by the previous Grand
Chancellor Chev. R.S. Attard to break off relations with the Duke of Seville and seek an alliance with
the d’Orléans group signing a convention about an “Alliance of Branches of the Order of Saint
Lazarus”. These schisms in the two Obediences resulted in a number of Lazarite alliances:
The de Brissac – de Seville reunited Group including the old Malta and Paris Obediences;
and
The Alliance of Branches of the Order of Saint Lazarus including the 2003-04 schismic
groups from the Paris Obedience with Prince Charles Philippe d’Orléans as Grand Master
and from the Malta Obedience with Chev. Reginald S. Attard as Vicar General.
56
Declaration by Francoise de Cossé, Duke de Brissac dated 5th
September 2002 witnessed by H.B. Gregory III Laham. MHOSLJ Archives. See also: Email from Francoise de Cossé, Duke de Brissac to HRH Francico de Borbón y Escasany dated 1
st
July 2002. MHOSLJ Archives B32a, Malta 57
Agreement of Understanding of the Joint Reconciliation Commission dated 19th
January 2003. MHOSLJ Archives B32a, Malta 58
Saint Lazarus Newsletter, No. 22, January 2004, p.3-5; Letter from Chev. David James to Chev. Bruce Harrington dated 17
th May 2003. MHOSLJ Archives B32a, Malta
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In spite of these setbacks, the reunification process of the de Brissac – de Seville group continued
of its track. A common Constitution was agreed by the Joint Reunification Commission on the 18th
February 2006 with bye-laws being agreed upon on the 24th September 2006. In 2006, the Duke of
Brissac was formally asked to accept the position as Grand Master Emeritus to which he agreed.
Thus, some 1500 members of the Paris Obedience finally moved towards reunification with the 4000
members of the Malta Obedience.59
H.R.H Francisco de Paula de Borbón y de Escasany
Grand Master – Malta Obedience 1996-2008
H.E. François de Cossé Marquis de Brissac
Grand Master – Paris Obedience 1986-2004
In January 2008, the Duke of Seville Francisco de Borbón y de Escasany announced that because
of personal reasons he had decided that he would step down as Grand Master of the Order and
would call a Chapter General later in the year. A Chapter General of the Order in Manchester,
England was called for September 2008 by the Grand Commander Chevalier David James GCLJ. The
primary purpose of the Chapter General was to introduce, elect and install a new Grand Master and
Constitutional Head of the Order. The Chapter General, attended by over 300 delegates from
Jurisdictions from all over the world, was opened with prayers by the Spiritual Protector. H.E. Carlos
Gereda y de Borbón, Marquis de Almazan was confirmed as the 49th Grand Master of the reunited
Order. H.H. Francisco de Borbón y Escasany was appointed by a unanimous decision of the Chapter
General Grand Master Emeritus. The Melkite Patriarch His Beatitude Gregory III remained the
Spiritual Protector of the united Order.
Another important matter considered in the Manchester meeting was the reunification with the so-
called "Norwich Group" (including the previous Paris Obedience splinter groups in Austria, England &
Wales, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, and Romania). Prior to the meeting,
the "Norwich-Group" met in a Chapter General in Vienna. It was there decided to re-unite the
Norwich-Group with the main branch of the Order (former Obedience Malta & Paris) as the “United
Order” and to support the nomination of Carlos Gereda de Borbón as Grand Master of the "United
59
The Ceremony of Reunification with the signing and witnessing of the Agreement of Reunification document took place on the 12
th October 2006 in Houston, USA. The signatories to the Agreement included: H.E. Major Chev David James, H.E.
Chev Joaquin Cayuala, H.E. Chrv Ron Hendriks, and Chev. Krenneth Monitugo for the Malta Obedience; and H.E. Chev Bruce Harrington, H.E. Lady Primrose Potter, and H.E. Chev Robert Vanderwater for the Paris Obedience. H.R.H. Francoise de Borbon y Escasany witnessed the document.
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21 | P a g e
Order". Following this decision, a delegation from the Norwich-Group was present at the
Manchester Chapter General and participated in the election procedure. The United Military and
Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem today enjoys a presence in 35 countries. 60
H.E. Carlos Gereda de Borbón 49
th Grand Master of the United Order and H.B. Gregory III Laham Spiritual
Protector of the Order signing the Kevelaer Declaration
60
Ross Michael [ed.]. Arms of the Jurisdictions - International: Updated list of the Arms of all Independent Legitimate Jurisdictions of the Order of Saint Lazarus. Grand Chancery & PRC, MHOSLJ, 2013 – Arms drawn by Mathieu Chaine
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A: National jurisdictions
Grand Priory of America
Grand Priory of Australia
Grand Bailiwick of Austria
Priory of the Kingdom of
Belgium & the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
Grand Priory of Brazil
Grand Priory of Canada
Grand Bailiwick of the
Czech Republic
Delegation of Denmark
Grand Priory of England
& Wales
Grand Priory of Finland
Grand Priory of France
Grand Bailiwick of
Germany
Grand Priory of Greece
Grand Priory of Hungary
Delegation of Singapore and Indonesia
Grand Priory of Ireland
Grand Priory of Italy
Delegation of Japan
Priory of Liechtenstein
Grand Priory of the
Maltese Islands
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23 | P a g e
Priory of Macedonia
(FYROM)
Delegation of Mexico
Grand Bailiwick of the
Netherlands
Grand Priory of New
Zealand
Delegation of Norway
Grand Priory of Poland
Grand Priory of Portugal
Grand Priory of Romania
Grand Bailiwick of
Scotland Delegation of Siam
(Thailand) and Indochina
Grand Priory of Slovakia
Grand Bailiwick of South
Africa
Grand Priory of Spain
Grand Priory of Sweden
Grand Bailiwick of
Switzerland
Priory of Zimbabwe
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24 | P a g e
B: Hereditary jurisdictions
Hereditary Commandery
of Castle Sighartstein [Austria]
Hereditary Commandery
of Villa Wallendorf [Germany]
Hereditary Commandery
of Sande [Portugal] Hereditary Commandery of "El Acebuchar" [Spain]
Hereditary Commandery of Fanad
C: Jurisdictions directly under the Grand Master or the Grand Chancellery
Grand Commandery of Boigny
[France]
Grand Commandery of the Castello
[Malta]
Humanitarian Grand Priory Europe
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25 | P a g e
The properties of the Order Chev. Charles Savona-Ventura
Grand Archivist & Historian
In the opening speech of the Magistral Council Meeting held in Washington, U.S.A in July 1984,
the Grand Commander H.E. Col. Robert Gayre of Gayre and Nigg commented on the expansion of
the Order he had witnessed over his near quarter century membership further stating that “we have
the Church of St. Vincent in Edinburgh, the Ambulance Corps Buildings1, Castello Lanzun in Malta,
and the Tower of Boigny.”2 These holdings were all the fruit of the efforts and generosity of Chev
Gayre.
The Church of St. Vincent in Edinburgh
In 1967, LtCol Gayre [b.1907; d.1996] established the Hereditary Commandery of Lochoreshyre
or Inchgall. The letters patent confirming the establishment of the Hereditary Commandery of
Lochore were signed by the Grand Master on the 15th April 1969. Accordingly, the letters patents
established that LtCol Robert Gayre of Gayre and Nigg would enjoy the title of Commander of
Lochore throughout his life and after him the title will pass to his hereditary successor who will have
the chieftainship of the Clan of Gayre and Nigg.3 The provisions associated with the setting up of this
Hereditary Commandery included the obligation that certain fiefs and trusts belonging to Col. Gayre
will be held by him for the remainder of his life as Trustee for and on behalf of the Order. The
associated fiefs and assets included:
The Castle of Lochore or Inchgall in the County of Fife in Scotland and the Avocation of
Ballingry and all the rights of sovereignty and titles attached to the said Lordship,
including the use by the Hereditary Commander of Lochoreshire or Inchgall of the title of
Baron of Lochore;
The Lordship of the Manor of Moulton Bewsolas in England in the County of Lincoln and
all the rights of sovereignty and titles attached to the said Lordship especially the use by
the Hereditary Commander of Lochoreshhyre or Inchgall of the title of Lord of the Manor
of Moulton Bewsolas;
1 The Order of St Lazarus Emergengy Ambulance Corps project was initiated by LtCol Gayre in Scotland under the
management of the Commandery of Lochore to attempt establish active ambulance units in Scotland in cooperation with the local government. The function of the Corps was to provide supplementary ambulance facilities in special circumstances, co-operating closely wth the police and the Scottish Ambulance Service in undertaking the rescue, first aid and transport of casualities arising from major incidents and to cover public events. The Emergency Corps of the Commandery mantained five ambulances sited in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Galashields, Stirling and Ayr. See: Order of St Lazarus Emergency Ambulance Corps. In: The Hereditary Commandery of Lockore. MHOSLJ, Edinburgh, [1971], p.19-20 2 Report of the Magistral Council held in Washington, D.C., USA 12
th to 15
th July, 1984. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1985, p.10
3 The Hereditary Commandery of Lockore. MHOSLJ, Edinburgh, [1971].
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26 | P a g e
The use and the ownership of the Church of St. Vincent situated in Edinburgh (Scotland)
as the Commandery Church, comprising the Chapel, the buildings and annexes; which
Church will be established as the headquarters of the Vice-Chancery of the overseas
Territories. 4
The hereditary jurisdiction survived until the death of LtCol Chev Robert Gayre in 1996 as the
Grand Hereditary Commandery of Lochore.5 Chev Gayre’s hereditary successor was not particularly
keen to maintain the Hereditary Commandery resulting in its abolition. All the associated fiefs and
assets of the jurisdiction were assumed by the Gayre family.
© Google Maps, 2014
Church of St Vincent
The Church of Saint Vincent is a neo-Gothic chapel designed by J.W.H. & J.M. Hay of Liverpool in
1856. It formerly served as the parish church of the Scottish Episcopal Church in the Diocese of
Edinburgh. It ceased parish functions in the 1960s and was acquired by Chev Gayre on the 15th June
1971. Steps were soon taken to renovate the chapel and transform this into a suitable Commandery
4 Confirmation of the erection of the Commandery of Lochore. Deed executed at Biarritz on the 18
th August 1969 [Register
No. 1/1969]. In: The Hereditary Commandery of Lochore, 1971, op. cit., p.6-9 5 Saint Lazarus Newsletter. December 1997, 11:p.3.
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Chapel creating a Knights’ Chapel in the chancel and nave with stalls for knights and commanders;
and a Chapter House in the north aisle for meetings of the Order. The Crypt was to be converted into
a museum and library of the Order, while the Church Hall was to be used as the headquarters of the
St. Lazarus Emergency Ambulance Corps. Provisions were to be made for the Chaplain’s Lodgings
and quarters for the custodian. In 1992, the Chapel of Saint Vincent reverted completely to parish
use as part of the Scottish Episcopal Church, Diocese of Edinburgh, a member of the Anglican
Communion.
The Church was decorated with heraldic decorations relevant to the Order and included sixty
large wooded panel shields in the roof of the Chancel depicting those of the Order and the
Commandery of Lochore, the shields of the officials of the Order including the Grand Master H.R.H.
Charles Philip of Orléans, the Co-adjutor Prince Michael of France, the Grand Commander H.R.H.
Francoise de Borbón y de Borbón, the Grand Referendary and Commander of Lochore Chev LtCol
Gayre, and those of other individual members of the Order. A fund was set up to finalize the project
by offering a subscription of £175 from interested members that ensured the inclusion and costs of
carving, painting and enamelling the respective heraldic arms. Further heraldic shields were placed
in the west end panels of the Nave’s Gallery, Vestibule, and Chapter House. Further arms were
installed on the walls, stalls and even in the stained glass windows. Jurisdiction banners were also
erected.
View of interior of church showing jurisdiction flags6
6 Photographs by Ms Elaine Robson: http://www.flickr.com/photos/pathlost/tags/stvincentschapel/
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The Torri ta’ Lanzun
In 1967, the 46th Grand Master H.R.H. Prince Charles Philippe d ’Orleans, Duke of Nemours,
Vendome and Alencon LtCol Gayre initiated administrative reforms by setting up a Commission to
review the Statute and Regulations of the Order that in 1969 led to the transfer of the Chancery and
administration of the Order from Paris to Malta.7 The Maltese national jurisdiction quickly took the
initiative to propose suitable sites for housing the Grand Chancellary and suggested the soon-to-
vacate Admiralty House and the St. John Counterguard. Other buildings, schedule to be vacated by
the British Services, were discussed with the Malta Government Lands Department.8 None of these
discussions led to any concrete acquisitions. In August 1971, LtCol Robert Gayre of Gayre and Nigg,
Laird of Lochore who then was serving as Grand Commander and Grand Almoner of the Order
proposed the purchase of Torri ta’ Lanzun at Mensija, San Gwann in Malta by his company Lochore
Enterprises Ltd. to be restored and to serve as the HQ for the Grand Chancery and the Grand Priory
of Malta.9 At the time of purchase, the Tower was structurally in a good condition but the three
sides of the courtyard were falling down. The total purchase price was a little over £7000.
Restoration costs were estimated at £5000. The purchase was subject to an annual ground rent of
about £100 payable to Borggrech Estates Limited, Malta. A 12-foot frontage area was given by the
Government Lands Department.10 In February 1972, permission was given by the Public Works
Department “to carry out additions and alterations as per plan PAPB 961/70/12 provided that the
façade is approved by the Aesthetics Board. All external walls are to be erected in franka stone also
no colours are to be used on the façade. The pseudo embrasures and the biforae should preferably
be removed; also as per attached proviso re clearance of material – Provided that on completion of
works discarded building materials and other debris deposited in a public place or a place abutting
on a place of public passage will have to be removed to an authorized or approved dump at the
expense of the applicant”.11 The buildings were then passed on to the Order for use as its
Administrative Headquarters—the Grand Chancery. The contract of the “Precarium”, i.e. loan of use,
was made on the 19th April 1972 with Dr. Joseph Raymond Grech as Notary who gratuitously gave
his professional services.12 Torri ta’ Lanzun was inaugurated by Grandmaster H.R.H. Francesco de
Borbón y de Borbón as the official headquarters of the Order of St. Lazarus on the 12th May 1973.
Torri ta’ Lanzun was originally a 15th century farmhouse that by the 17th century had transferred
ownership to Wenzu Lanzun from Cittá Vittoriosa, thus accounting for its present name. Wenzu
Lanzun transferred residence to the farmhouse during the 1676 plague epidemic in an attempt
towards avoiding the dreaded infection—in a way placing himself and his family in virtual isolation
and quarantine. The San Gwann region was in the 17th century very poorly inhabited; though the
locality had long housed a number of wayside chapels. Close to Torri ta’ Lanzun stands the cave-
7 An Introduction to the Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem. MHOSLJ, Malta, n.d. (¬1971), p.7-8
8 Archives of the Grand Priory of the Maltese Islands: 1966-1971. Minute notes dated 5
th March 1969 and 27
th February
1971 9 LtCol Gayre actually purchased the Torri ta’ Lanzun to eventually serve as his residence. Vide: Robert Gayre. Gayre of
Gayre & Nigg – An Autobiography. Edinburgh Impressions td., Edinburgh, 1987, p.149 [subsequently referred to as R. Gayre. Autobiography, 1987] 10
Letter from LtCol Robert Gayre to Chev. J. Amato Gauci dated 15th
August 1971. MHOSLJ Archives B14: docs.313 11
Planning Area Permit Board dated 3rd
February 1972 responding to application dated 20th
March 1970. MHOSLJ Archives B14: docs.313 12
Precarium Contract made between Harold Farrugia for Lochore Enterprises (Malta) Ltd subsidiary to Lochore Enterprises Ltd, of Edinburgh, Scotland and Chev. Joseph Amato Gauci, Chancellor and Acting Receiver-General of the Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem dated 19
th April 1972. Not. Joseph Raymond Grech Reg. No. 12/73
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chapel dedicated to San Leonardo. Known today as the Chapel of the Annunciation [Lunziata
Chapel], this cave-chapel is associated with a popular medieval legend and was extant in 1575 when
the Apostolic Visitor Mgr Petrus Dusina wrote his report. The locality during this period fell under
the jurisdiction of the Birkirkara Parish. Other chapels recorded in the Birkirkara parish included the
old parochial church of St. Helena, and the chapels dedicated to Santa Margarita, Sant Andrea, San
Bartholomew and of course the cave-chapel of San Leonardo.13
© Google Map, 2014
San Gwann Area: 17th
century map and present time
Torri ta’ Lanzun locality marked by arrow in both maps.
13
G. Aquilina, S. Fiorini [eds.]. Documentary Sources of Maltese History. Part IV. Documents at the Vatica. No.1 Archivio Segreto Vaticano. Congregazione Vescovi e Regolari. Mata: Vista Apostolica no.51 Mgs Petrus Dusina, 1575. University Press, Malta, 2001
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The original farmhouse building included large hall on the ground floor which served as a stable
for cattle. The owner and his family lived in the upper chambers approached by an external
staircase, the flat roof of which being reached by a turret staircase. In time, new stables were built in
the north side of the quadrangle while a courtyard was built to enclose the north side. The outside
staircase now ascended within the safety of this enclosure. Another room was built adjoining the
doorway into the quadrangle; while above the doorway a small chamber with a fireplace was further
constructed. In 1713, structural modifications were further made to the edifice thus enlarging and
strengthening to serve as a fortified building to serve as a haven for local inhabitants during pirate
raids. Its situation commanding panoramic views over St George’s, Spinola and St Julian’s Bays and
towards the city of Valletta ensured an early warning for raids. The building is believed to have also
served as a hunting station for the Grandmaster of the Order of St. John. It subsequently passed into
the hands of the Attard family. During World War II, it was used as an observation post for enemy
planes, and was rather severely damaged during enemy action. After the war it had several
owners.14 The fortified farmhouse was in the 1960s in a very depilitated state and partly demolished.
Torri Lanzun prior to its restoration - 1971
© MHOSLJ Archives
14
International Lazarite, 1975, 1(2):p.43; Saint Lazarus Newsletter, May 1996, 8:p.12
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An effort was made to restore the buildings and carry out improvements. The work was
undertaken under the direct supervision of architect and civil engineer Chev. Maurice Captur, a
member of the Priory of Malta. Then began the fitting and furnishing of the Grand Chancery carried
out through the generosity of the various members of the Order including substantial monetary
donations including Lt.Col Gayre [equivalent to €6900] and Chev J. Brown Cook [equivalent to
€1510]. The other members of the Order between them donated the sum equivalent to €6950.
Various items were also donated with the aim of embellishing the building.15
Chev. J. Tabone—a large carpet
Chev. A. Zammit—two lanterns
Mrs B. Zammit—draperies and curtains, lace altar cloths and holy water stoop, and
an antique crucifix
The Delegation of Gozo headed by Dr. Joseph Pace—a statue of Saint Lazarus
LtCol Chev J.V. Abela—kneeling stool with cushion for investiture
Chev J. Amato Gauci—an antique piece of tapestry
Mgr. Sciberras-Psaila—a Papal blessing on parchment
Chev. C.N. Packett – silk banner of the Order
The Lady of Gayre – Armour
Chev. R. Morris – Shield of the Order
Ms. H.J. Morris OLJ – cushion for insignia
Ms. Mann – cushion and chalice
Delegation of Finland – pair of brass candlesticks
The Grand Master and his entourage including Chev. R. Gresham – gifts of furniture.
On the 12th May 1973, the 47th Grand Master formally inaugurated Torri ta’ Lanzun (Castello Lanzun)
in Malta as the official headquarters and Administrative Seat of the Order.16
15
Inauguration of the Grand Chancery, Malta; Report on Chapter General held on 11th and 12th May 1973. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1973. [subsequently refered to as: Inauguration – Malta, 1973]. During the 1973 Chapter General, it was reported [p.5] that “the Grand Commander announced the gift to the Order of Lochore House, with five flats, next to Villa Lochore. The method of handing over the property would be left to Notary Dr. J. Grech CLJ and Mr. Harold Farrugia OLJ to work out in the best interest of the Order.” The address to Villa Lochore was: 115 The Strand, Gzira, Malta. LtCol Gayre owned three properties in Malta – Torri ta’ Lanzun, the flats at 114 The Strand, Gzria and Villa Lochore. Legal enactments in Malta promulgated in the early 1970s allowed foreigners to own only one property. This led to LtCol Gayre to pass the ownership of Torri ta’ Lanzun and the flats to his company Lochore Enterprises (Malta) Limited and retain Villa Lochore for his personal use. The latter was also eventually sold in 1975. Vide: R. Gayre. Autobiography, 1987, op. cit., p.149-150. The original plan was to use the five flats for the use of members and other recommended persons as places for recuperation after illness, etc. The property was to be rented at a nominal rent of about £1 per annum while the occupiers would pay a nominal charge of £10 deposit and £10 monthly. The overall plan was to have such houses around the world. Vide: Letter from LtCol Robert Gayre to various interested individuals – Subject 114, The Strand, Gzira dated 28
th April 1973. MHOSLJ
Archives B:36a, Malta 16
Inauguration – Malta, 1973, op. cit.; Order of St Lazarus headquarters to be inaugurated. Times of Malta, 12th
May, p.20.
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rancisco de orb n lanked by Prince Irakly de Bagration and LtCol Robert Gayre y Gayre: 1973
In May 1974, in accordance with the provisions of the original transfer contract, the Priory of
Malta requested the Grand Chancellor Chev J. Amato Gauci to consider the drawing up of “an
agreement of lease in respect to the inner room at an annual rent based on the original suggested
rental of £M25 per annum for the two rooms”. The Grand Chancellor proposed that no charge was
to be made for the rental of the mentioned rooms; a proposal seconded by Lt.Col. Gayre. It was
therefore decided that “it is not the intention of the Grand Chancery to lease any rooms of the
Castello Lanzun to the Malta Priory and, hence, the need of drawing up an agreement does not arise.
The inner room on the first floor of the Castello will, however, be reserved for the sole use of the
Priory and, whenever necessary, the Priory will be allowed to make use of the outer room on the
same floor.”17 In October 1980, the Order formally purchased Torri ta’ Lanzun from Col. Gayre.18 The
ground rent was redeemed in 1984. Restoration and upgrading works were still being carried out in
1997. That year saw the relaying of the garden to assist in the retention of water, while old and
unsuitable plants were replaced. The walls required annual resealing to prevent their deterioration,
while the flats roofs were scheduled for re-attention. It was planned to install gates at the main
entrance.19 These gates were installed the subsequent year and fencing was also installed above the
17
Letter from F.E. Critien Secretary General of the Priory of Malta to Chev. J. Amato Gauci dated 6th
May 1974 with endorsement by Lt.Col. Gayre and response of Grand Chancellor dated 10
th May 1974. MHOSLJ Archives B14: docs.313
18 Letter from Chev. J. Amato Gauci to H.R.H. the Grand Master dated 27
th May 1987. MHOSLJ Archives B:206a. The notary
involved may have been Notary J. Micallef Trigona. Vide: Letter from advocate Dr. Alb. Ganado to Chev. J. Amato Gauci dated 8
th April 1980. MHOSLJ Archives: B36a, Malta
19 Saint Lazarus Newsletter, May 1998, 12:p.11-12
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street wall for about half its length. The well tank had sprung a leak and needed repair works.20 By
the beginning of 2003, all restoration work had been completed.
Arial & Frontal elevation view o Torri ta’ Lanzum
© Google Map, 2014 & C. Savona-Ventura
The Torri Ta’ Lanzun is now the International Headquarters of the Military and Hospitaller Order
of St Lazarus of Jerusalem and has been fully restored. Its maintenance is the responsibility of the
Keeper of the Torri and the Grand Commandery of the Castello. The Grand Archivist & Historian is
responsible for maintaining the Archives housed within the Torri.
The entrance of the building holds the symbolic key of the Castello presented to the Grand
Master on assuming ownership. It also has a cabinet with the uniform of Grand Master Francesco
Enrique de Borbón.
20
Saint Lazarus Newsletter, April 1999, 14:p.11
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View of the Tower elevation, the Symbolic Key of the Torri & Grand Master’s uni orm
The entrance underlying the tower on the left side leads to the east end of the farmhouse now
serving as a small ecumenical Chapel dedicated to Our Lady. The Chapel is decorated by various
jurisdictional flags. The rooms above the chapel and the tower, comprising the original living
quarters, now serve as a Council Meeting room decorated with a large number of heraldic
adornments, pictures and photos. The adjoining room serves as an office housing the Archives of the
Order.
Chapel and Alter piece
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Council Meeting Room
The west side of the farmhouse at the opposite end of the courtyard from the Chapel, comprising
the later added stables, have been converted into a large meeting hall (now called the Knights' Hall)
Knights Hall
The Tower building and the Knights Hall are connected by another building comprising a small
kitchen, cloakroom and toilet, and ‘keep’ style store room. The large inner court yard is set and
adorned with abundant shrubs, flower beds, and bougainvillea. A commemorative plaque in a niche
in the courtyard wall marks the official handover from Robert Gayre into the hands of the then
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Commandery as Custodians for the Order of St Lazarus. A second commemorative plaque records
the 40th anniversary of the handover. It is in this courtyard that formal and social functions take
place throughout the year.
Courtyard & 1973 commemorative plaque
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Unveiling of the 40
th anniversary commemorative plaque by the Grand Master
5th
November 2013 © Grand Priory of the Maltese Islands Archives
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The Chateau de Boigny
The Chateau de Boigny had a very long history of association with the Order of Saint Lazarus, the
property having been donated to the Order by King Louis VII in 1154 as a perpetual fief with the right
of superior and inferior justice making the Order in France a feudal vassal of the French King. Prior to
its donation, the building had served as a Royal residence. After being ousted from Acre and the Holy
Land in 1291, the Order established its Grand Magisterial See at Boigny.
Low-relief based on an old engraving showing Louis VII donating the property at Boigny to the
Hospitallers of Saint Lazarus
The religious wars in France of the sixteenth century led to the building passing in the hands of
the Calvinists who came to occupy Orléans under the command of the Prince of Condé. The
destroyed building was eventually restored to the Order and was in 1578 rebuilt by Grand Master
François Salviati changing the old feudal fortress structure to a 16th century manor. The building was
again sacked by the Catholics leaving the manor uninhabited and in disrepair for over a century until
April 1699 when Huguet de Semonville, appointed Commander of Boigny, took possession and built
a new home. The Order lost its ownership with the confiscation of all its properties during the 18th
century French Revolution.
The old Boigny château and the arms of Huguet de Semonville
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During the early twentieth century re-organization of the Order, the magisterial seat of the Order
was identified with Boigny even though the administrative seat in the form of the Chancery was
located in Paris. On the 30th May 1964, a pilgrimage was organized for the members of the Order
initiating an annual June tradition whereby members of the Order from all over the world reconnect
with the historical roots in Boigny.
Aerial view of the château and grounds of Boigny
The château of Boigny – exterior and interior views
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The château of Boigny – gate and towers
During the Grand Magistral Meeting held in Malta in September 1977, the Bailiff of Boigny Chev
De Beaugour suggested that the Order should consider acquiring the farm and tower of the Chateau
of Boigny. The property had been acquired and repaired by the Grand Commander Lt.Col. Gayre,
who was ready to pass the property to the Order. It was suggested that the ideal way of obtaining
the property was to have the property vested to various interested judisdictions, rather to individual
members. The transfer was achieved in the subsequent months. In the General Assembly of the
Grand Priory of Alsace on the 28th March 1980, it was reported that “le statut à donner à cette
propriété a fait l'objet de longues études juridiques pour concilier les impératifs du droit français et le
caractère international de l'Ordre, grâce au chevalier Marc Leyenberger que je tiens à féliciter et à
remercier. L'affaire est maintenant au point et je pense pouvoir vous annoncer prochainement sa
conclusion. Très prochainement maintenant l'Ordre sera de nouveau dans ses murs, grâce au Grand-
Commander et à la générosité des juridictions qui, à traverse le monde entier, ont répondu à l'appel
qui leur était lancé pour le rachat et la remise en état de la Tour de Boigny.”21 Over the subsequent
months by February 1981 a management association of French citizen members of the Order was
set up under the jurisdiction of the Grand Priory of Alsace and the Grand Bailiwick of Boigny to
ensure the proper management and maintenance of the property.22
21
Assemblee Generale 28 mars198. Grand Prieure d’Alsace – Ordre Militaire et Hospitalier de Saint-Lazare de Jérusalem. MHOSLJ, Alsace, 1980, p.9 22
Report of the Grand Magistral Council held in Malta 23rd
– 24th
September 1977. MHOSLJ, Netherlands, 1977, p.17-18; Report of the Grand Magistral Council held in Edinburgh, Scotland, 23
rd – 24
th June 1980. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1980, p.11-12,46;
Report of the Grand Magistral Council held in Washington D.C., USA, 12th
to 15th
July 1984. MHOSLJ, Malta, 1984, p.21-22; Saint Lazarus Newsletter, No. 12, May 1998, p.9-10
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On the 7th January 1998, about a quarter of the Tower of the Château of Boigny collapsed as a
consequence of three years of draught and the sandy soil of the region. Another quarter had to be
demolished leaving only half of the tower suitable for utilization in any attempt at restoration. The
restoration project was estimated to cost about 700,000 French francs. An urgent plea was made by
the Chancellor of the Grand Priory of Alsace for financial support from the Grand Chancery and
other jurisdictions to undertake the restoration project.23 However, the tower was taken over by the
French Government who rebuilt is as a museum. The Order retained a piece of land in Boigny which
remained under the care of the Grand Bailiwick of Boigny.24 The château over the last twenty years
has served as the headquarters of the Commanderie de l ' Orléans holding the French archives of the
Order. The Hall of Flags contains 28 flags representing the European Commanderies. In June 2000, a
memorial was set up depicting the simple green Latin cross used as an emblem by the Order in the
Medieval period and the later green eight-pointed cross.
23
Saint Lazarus Newsletter, No. 12, May 1998, p.9-10 24
Letter from Grand Chancellor Chev. R.S. Attard to the GM dated 21st
November 2001. MHOSLJ Archives, Malta
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The Schismatic Groups of the Order of Saint Lazarus – a
background to their history Chev. Charles Savona-Ventura
Grand Archivist & Historian
The Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem during the latter part of the
twentieth century saw divisions being generated by conflict of thought and personalities. These
divisions were sometimes taken to extremes which led individual members to become disillusioned
with the central government of the Order.1 The Reunification Agreement signed in October 2008
ended four decades of turmoil and conflict between the two major groups. However, disagreement
and dissention during the period has seen other splinter groups setting up their own independent
organisational structure. These have unfortunately still not opted to return to the main fold.
The main schismatic groups still functioning to date include:
1. The Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem – United Grand Priories
a. United Grand Priories under Master General Frà John Baron Dudley von Sydow von
Hoff
b. United Grand Priories under Supreme Grand Prior H. E. Chevalier Richard Comyns of
Ludston
2. The Military and Hospitaller Oreder of St Lazarus of Jerusalem
a. Orléans Obedience previously under the temporal protection of the Royal House of
France under Grand Master Jan Count Dobrzenský z Dobrzenicz
b. Saint Lazare International under Administrator General Bishop Richard Garrad
3. Military & Hospitaller Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem – Malta Obedience under Grand
Master H.R.H. Prince Pieter Cantacuzino
4. Constitutional Jurisdictions of Carpanthia of the Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem led by
Col. Andrew T. Adam von Rhédey
1 In 1910, Johan José Moser from Berlin founded a short-lived group with the name “Hospitallers of Saint
Lazarus”. Moser was never a member of the mainline Order. In 1930, Paul Wartin who previously served as Chancellor of the Order resigned and founded an institution called the Noble Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem with himself as Grand Master. It disappeared after the Second World War. See: Guy Coutant de Saisseval. The knights and hospitallers of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem from 1789 to 1930. English translation by M. Ustick published by the MHOSLJ, Paris, n.d.
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MHOSLJ - reunited 49th GM H.E. Carlos Gereda de Borbon,
Marquis of Almazan – elected 2008
Reunited 2008
Hospitaller Order of Saint
Lazarus of Jerusalem
Master General John Baron
Dudley von Sydow von Hoff
Established 1995
MHOSLJ–Orléans Obedience
50th GM H.E. Jan Dobrzensky z
Dobrzenic elected 2010
49th GM Charles-Philippe de
Orleans elected 2004
MHOSLJ – Malta Obedience
50th GM HRH Pieter Cantacuzino Elected 2013
49th GM HRH Charles-Philippe d’Orléans Elected 2004
Branch established 2004 managed by a series of Vicar
Generals
Military & Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem
45th
Grand Master Francesco Enrique de Borbón y de Borbón – elected 1959
44th
Grand Master Francisco de Paula de Borbón y de la Torre – elected 1935
Previously managed by Council of Officers under the Melkite Patriarch
Est. c.1848/1911
MHOSLJ
46th
GM Charles Philippe de Orleans
Elected 1967
United Grand
Priories of the HOSLJ
Superior Grand Prior
Chev. Richard Comyns
Est. 2008
MHOSLJ - Spain
45th
GM Francesco Enrique de Borbón y de Borbón
Elected GM Emeritus 1969; re-elected 47th
GM 1973
MHOSLJ – Paris Obedience
48th
Grand Master François de Cossé Duke of Brissac
Elected 1986; GM Emeritus 2006
47th
Grand Master Pierre de Cossé Duke of Brissac
Elected 1969; GM Emeritus 1986
MHOSLJ – Malta Obedience
48th
GM Francisco de Borbón y Escasany Duke of
Seville
Elected 1996; GM Emeritus 2008
47th
GM Francisco Enrique de Borbón y de Borbón
Elected 1973
MHOSLJ – Saint
Lazare International
Administrator General
Bishop Richard Garrad
Est. 2010
Constitutional Jurisdictions of Carpanthia – OSLJ
Est. 2008 led by Col. Andrew T. Adam von Rhédey
Noble Order of SLJ
GM Paul Wartin
1930-1940
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Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem – The United Grand Priories
On the 1st January 1995, a group of British past members and
officials of the Paris Obedience H.E. François de Cossé Marquis de
Brissac broke off from that Obedience and formally established the
Grand Priory of England, Wales, Isle of Man and Channel Islands
(with the Commanderies of Richmond, of Buckingham, and of
Westminster) and the Grand Priory of Scotland of the Hospitaller
Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem as a British ‘confraternity of
hospitallers’ who apply themselves
to the relief of those in need of
hospice care. The management was led by a Master-General Frà
John Baron Dudley von Sydow von Hoff OStJ GCTS GCLJ GCMLJ SCLJ
KV CMV. The original scope of the association was to direct its
activities mainly in the United Kingdom but continued discord within
the original Order of Saint Lazarus led to further expansion and the
formation of a single umbrella body known as The United Grand
Priories of the Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem, established on
the 13th May 1999. Frá von Hoff served as chairman of the Grand
Council of the United Grand Priories.
In the early 2000s, a number of members with an aggressive
expansionist mentality joined the Order. These drove a very active
and aggressive expansionist programme so that from 2007 onwards,
the Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem expanded greatly
in various countries and regions. In 2008, the United Grand Priories of the Hospitaller Order of Saint
Lazarus abolished the self-appointed position of ‘Master General’ of the Order and a Supreme Grand
Priory to govern all the united Grand Priories within the Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus was
established. This is led by a Supreme Grand Prior, duly elected by the Grand Officers of the Supreme
Grand Priories to preside on the work carried out by the Supreme
Grand Priory.
The original British group led by Frá von Hoff broke off from the
2008 newly re-structured UGP and continue to function as the
United Grand Priories of the Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus
under the direction of Master General Frá von Hoff.2 They are
represented by the Grand Priory of England, Wales, Isle of Man and
Channel Islands; The Hereditary Grand Commandery of St Sopia;
the Grand Priory of Denmark; and the Commandery of Pafos.
The newly-structured 2008 group elected H. E. Chevalier Richard
Comyns of Ludston GCLJ GCMLJ as the Supreme Grand Prior so that
the Supreme Grand Priory became based in Edinburgh, Scotland.
The international operations are directed from the office of the
2 Website of the United Grand Priories of the Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem. Retrieved 28
th March 2014 from
http://www.saintlazarus.co.uk
Frà John Baron
Dudley von Sydow
von Hoff
Chev. Richard
Comyns of Ludston
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Grand Chancellery, which is based in Malta, under the auspices of the Grand Chancellor, Chev.
Massimo J Ellul GCLJ GCMLJ. Its administrative and legal operations are also based in Edinburgh,
Scotland and administered by the Grand Secretary of the United Grand Priories, Chevalier Robin
Slack KCLJ KMLJ. From that time onwards, the expansion of the Order on an international level was
encouraged and properly overseen by means of a pro-active Grand Chancellery fully authorized to
ensure a Global Lazarite presence. In 2009, the United Grand Priories entered into a synergic,
collaboration agreement with the Union Corps San Lazare International, based in Vienna, Austria.
The latter are a registered nongovernmental organization also spread around the world with an
impressive amount of Hospitaller work world wide to their credit. In 2011, the international
operations of the Saint Lazarus Corps – Special Rescue Group also entered into a strategic alliance
with the United Grand Priories of the Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem and is indeed
operating from within the offices of the Grand Chancellery of the Order. By 2012, both these Lazarite
organisations worldwide had officially joined the United Grand Priories of the Hospitaller Order of
Saint Lazarus and both organisations have voting rights within the Supreme Grand Priory of the
Order in much the same manner as other Grand Priories of the Order have this right of vote. The
year 2012 also saw the Sacred Medical Order of the Knights of Hope unanimously voting to join the
United Grand Priories of the Order during the International Lazarite Symposium held in April in the
ancient Sacra Infermeria of the Knights of Saint John. The Sacred Medical Order of the Knights of
Hope is registered in Ecuador and works world-wide in direct, hands-on medical and Hospitaller
work with the needy. 3 The United Grand Priories claims that it has 71 jurisdictions in 58 countries,
while its affiliated organizations are represented in a further 16 countries. Many of these are still
listed as under formation. The Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem clearly states that it
makes no claims, nor has it any pretensions, to be an order of chivalry descended directly from the
original Order of Saint Lazarus, but that it has modelled itself upon the traditions and ideals of the
ancient, chivalric and hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem. It has a number of affiliates.
The Special Rescue Group was founded by Maltese first aider David J. Zammit
in Malta on the 16th June 1991. The aims of the group were give help to all people
without any discrimination; to protect human life and health; and to ensure
respect for the human being thus developing the Body, the Mind and the Spirit. It
is a voluntary relief movement and not prompted in any way by any desire for any
material or any other form of personal gain. Volunteers are given the necessary
training to do there job with the section they belong. Members are expected to abide by the rules
and regulations of the Special Rescue Group. On the 19th November 2004, the SRG became affiliated
with the Grand Priory of the Maltese Islands of the 2004 schismatic group of the Malta Obedience
led by Chev. Reginald Attard [vide infra]. The SRG changed its name and insignia to adopt the St.
Lazarus Corps designation. In 2007, together with the Grand Priory to which it was affiliated to,
joined the Military & Hospitaller Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem under the management of H.R.H
Francisco de Paula de Borbón y de Escasany. However, In May 2011, Chev Zammit opted to
participate in an investiture of the Grand Priory of Malta of the United Grand Priories during which
occasion a Document of Alliance was signed. This led to the expulsion of the SRG-SLC from the
MHOSLJ. In April 2012, the Special Rescue Group – Saint Lazarus Corps became an official member of
3 Website of the Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem. Retrieved 28
th March 2014 from
http://www.saintlazarus.org
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the United Grand Priories of the Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus and thus gained voting rights
within the Supreme Grand Priory of the Order in much the same manner as other Grand Priories of
the Order. The Corps is presently operating from within the offices of the Grand Chancellery of the
Order. The group started to expand by opening branches in the United States of America, Brazil,
Denmark and Germany.4
In February 2007, ten members of the “Delegation Osterrichi” led by Cdr J.C.
Steiner and Wolfgang Steinhardt made serious accusations against both principle
officers of the Grand Bailiwick of the Military & Hospitaller Order of St. Lazarus of
Jerusalem and requested transfer to the “International Grand Bailiwick”. In spite
of attempts to negotiate and settle the issue, the group founded their own
Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem by act of notary on the
12th March in Waidhoven and Thaya. This led to the expulsion of these individuals from the mother
Order in August 2007, which also instituted legal proceedings to protect its rights. In response to the
Austrian law court verdict, the group changed their name in 2007 to “Corps Saint Lazare Ostarrichi
(Sankt Lazarus Korps Ostarrichi) - CSLO”. In March 2008, the CSLO joined the Grand Priory of Austria
of the Norwich group on the MHOSLJ, which dissolved the group in September 2008. Mr. Steinhardt
left the group and founded on the 16th September 2008 the CORPS SAINT LAZARE INTERNATIONAL
(Sankt Lazarus Korps International) with its own insignia. In 2009, the Union Corps San Lazare
International, based in Vienna, Austria entered into a synergic, collaboration agreement with the
United Grand Priories. By 2012, the CSLJ had officially joined the United Grand Priories of the
Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus and gained full voting rights within the Supreme Grand Priory of
the Order. The LAZARUS UNION is a registered and accredited NGO (Non Governmental
Organization, Reg.no. (=Profile Code) 632158) and has been awarded “SPECIAL CONSULTATIVE
STATUS” with the United Nations ECOSOC (Economic and Social Council).5
The Sacred Medical Order of the Knights of Hope, a specialised medical chivalric
organisation operating in various regions in need throughout the world,
unanimously voting to join the United Grand Priories of the Hospitaller Order of
Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem during the International Lazarite Symposium held in April
2012 in the ancient Sacra Infermeria of the Knights of Saint John. The Sacred
Medical Order of the Knights of Hope is registered in Ecuador and works world-wide
in direct, hands-on medical and Hospitaller work with the needy.6
The year 2012, the charitable organization Humanity Healing International, a
501C3 charitable organisation registered in the US and operating mainly in Africa
and the Indian sub-continent, initiated a close synergy with the United Grand
Priories. In January 2014, Humanity Healing International formally joined the United
Grand Priories.7
4 http://www.srgmalta.org/
5 http://www.lazarus-union.org/
6 http://smoch.org/
7 http://humanityhealing.org/
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MHOSLJ – Orléans Obedience previously under the temporal protection of the Royal House of France
Another splinter group from the Paris Obedience resulted when a number of jurisdictions refused
the candidature of the Duke of Seville during the Chapter General held in Toronto in March 2004.
This group on 20th September 2004 sought the Temporal Protection of the Order of the Head of the
Royal House of Orleans adopting originally the name of the Orléans Obedience. Confirmation of the
Temporal Protection of Henry Comte de Paris was given in the Cathedral of Orléans, during the
investiture of his nephew Charles-Philippe d’Orléans as head of this splinter group. In May 2005, His
Eminence Cardinal László Paska was officially installed as Spiritual Protector. The group is governed
by a Constitutional Charter which was adopted in Prague on 21st day of September, in the year of our
Lord 2006. In 2010, Charles-Philippe retired his post and replaced as the 50th Grand Master on the
20th November by Jan Count Dobrzenský z Dobrzenicz. While this group on its website still claims to
be under the temporal protection of the Royal House of France [cf.], this protection was withdrawn
in 2014.8
Dignitaries of the group
GM emeritus Charles-Philippe d’Orleans - General Chaplain Cardinal Dominik Duka - GM Jan Count Dobrzenský z Dobrzenicz
The group is made up of a number of jurisdictions who are represented on the Governing
Council: these include: the Grand Prior of France; the Grand Prior of Great Britain; the Grand Prior of
Bohemia; the Grand Prior of Hungary; the Grand Prior of Italy; the Grand Priory of Monaco; the
Grand Prior of the Netherlands; the Grand Prior of Spain; and the Grand Bailiwick of the United
States.
8 http://www.orderofsaintlazarus.com; Communiqué de Monseigneur le Comte de Paris. http://www.la-
couronne.org/blog/actualite-royale/communique-de-monseigneur-le-comte-de-paris-12.html
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MHOSLJ – Saint Lazare International
There is also another group which calls itself the Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of
Jerusalem – Saint Lazare International that arose as a result of the 2004 split in the Paris Obedience
led by Philippe Piccapietra who now serves as the Grand Chancellor of this branch. This break led to
a legal battle in the Swiss Courts that was decided against the group.9 The group originally allied
itself to the Orléans Obedience but split off when Charles-Philippe de Orléans was replaced as Grand
Master by H.E. Jan Dobrzensky z Dobrzenic in 2010. It presently is under the management of Bishop
Richard Garrad as Administrator General.10 It claims to conduct charitable and humanitarian
activities in 45 countries and has representatives in 20 countries worldwide. At the international
level the Order acts through the ‘Verein des Militärischen und Hospitalischen Ordens des Heiligen
Lazarus von Jerusalem International’ (Association of the Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint
Lazarus International), with its seat in Seedorf, Canton Uri, Switzerland, as its operative legal body.
The Association is registered in the commercial register.
Military & Hospitaller Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem – Malta Obedience
The Malta Obedience under the management of H.R.H Francisco
de Paula de Borbón y de Escasany in 2003 initiated a series of
organizational reforms. This re-organisation included the enforced
retirement of the long-term Grand Chancellor Chev. Reginald S.
Attard who had been expelled since he failed to give an account of
the finances of the Malta Obedience. This move resulted in a
number of jurisdictions declaring their autonomy from the
government of the Duke of Seville, and in 2004 broke off and
organised themselves under the direction of Chev. R.S. Attard as
Vicar General and Dr. Freidrich Schuberth as Grand Chancellor.
Chev. Attard died in 2006 and his place was filled initially by Dr.
Schuberth and eventually by H.S.H. Dr hc Vittorio Galoppini 37th
Duca di Carpenedolo. The post of Grand Custodian is filled by Chev.
Attard’s daughter Helen Meli Attard di Calcinato. In June 2013,
H.R.H. Prince Pieter Cantacuzino was elected Grand Master at the
GMCM in Göddöllö, Hungary with Chev Galoppini being appointed Grand Vicar and Chev Schuberth
Grand Senechal. Dame Helen Meli Attard continues to serve as Grand Custodian. The branch claims
to have jurisdictions in 25 countries or areas.11
9 Decision in the matter Philippe Piccapietra vs. Walter Schappi dated 2
nd June 2004, Bern Judicial District,
Switzerland, www.st-lazarus.cz/bern_eng.pdf 10
http://www.oslj.org/ 11
http://www.orderofsaintlazarus.org
H.R.H. Prince Pieter
Cantacuzino
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Constitutional Jurisdictions of Carpanthia of the Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem
The Grand Priory of Carpathia is an alliance of Jurisdictions of
the Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem which are located within
Carpathian Basin, or adjacent to it, or historically were part of the
Kingdom of Hungary or the Austro-Hungarian Empire.12 Its leaders
broke off from the Malta Obedience of the MHOSLJ led by H.R.H
Francisco de Paula de Borbón y de Escasany after 2004 following
Chev. R.S. Attard. It eventually returned to the mainline fold after
2006, and during the September 2008 Chapter General of the
Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem
(MHOSLJ), held in the City of Manchester, England assumed the
position that "The entire membership of the Commandery of
Slovakia is in support of the reunification process and the election
of the new Grandmaster, but we will not support the
development of the Order into new organization that will be
without the historical mandate of the Order, traditional
organizational structure, knightly and noble virtues and Christian
believes". However, after the publication of the new Constitution of the Malta-Paris United MHOSLJ,
the Commandery of Slovakia, led by His Excellency Honorable Col. Andrew T. Adam von Rhédey
GCLJ-J, KStJ-J, declared that in "no way" could it support the proposed Constitution, and together
with the affiliate the International Green Cross Organization terminated all relations with the United
Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem believing that the new Constitution of
the United Order transformed the Order into another civic organization parallel to Lions Club, Rotary
Club, etc. rather than maintaining its traditional Christian Chivalric Service structure.
12
http://www.lazarusorder.net
H.E. Col. Andrew T.
Adam von Rhédey
GCLJ-J, KStJ-J
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Bid to acquire King George V Hospital in Malta Chev. Charles Savona-Ventura
Grand Archivist & Historian
King George V Seamen’s Memorial Hospital sited in Floriana just outside the fortifications of
Valletta, Malta was originally formally inaugurated by H.E. the Governor of Malta Field Marshal Lord
Plumer on the 30th November 1922.1 This 32-bed hospital was build following an appeal by Governor
Field Marshall Lord Methuen in August 1918 as a memorial to the men of the Merchant Navy who
died in the First World War.2 The Foundation Stone was laid by Lady Methuen C.B.E. on the 27th
March 1919. The hospital was built and administered by the “Seaman’s Christian Friends Society
Hospital Trust” of London. The building site presented difficulties so that while works on the
foundations started on the 4th August 1920, the building could only start on the 16th May 1921 since
48 000 cubic feet of stone needed to be laid in the foundations before work on the superstructure
could commence. The responsible architect was Bridgeford Pirie; the contractor Michael Camilleri.
The cost for the building amounted to £16 000.3 The original hospital catered for both genders. The
male services included one 12-bedded ward, two three-bedded wards, and three single-bedded
rooms. For women, the hospital had one six-bedded ward and five single-bedded rooms, one
catering for maternity cases. The second floor housed accommodation for the Medical
Superintendent [Dr James Milne MB ChB Capt. RAMC], the Matron [Ms. M. Hamilton Watts RRC
CMB] and four nurses [including Ms Stubbins CMB; Ms Esther Hamilton Watts; and Ms. Milne CMB].
A significant monetary contribution of £25 000 enabling an annual income of £1000 to cover running
costs was made by Captain and Ms. Wisely.4 The building was eventually extended to a capacity of
48 beds.
The King George V Seamen’s Memorial Hospital was very severely damaged in April 1942 by enemy
action during the Second World War. It was subsequently reconstructed by funds obtained among
others from the Scottish Branch of the British Red Cross who contributed over £160 000, the Silver
Thimble Fund contributed £27 000, and the Nurse of Britain Gift. The rebuilt larger hospital was
inaugurated by Lady Louis Mountbatten on the 30th November 1948. The hospital catered for sick
and injured seamen of all nationalities and also many dependants of the service personnel. Maltese
patients were admitted when beds were available.
1 The opening of King George V Merchant Seamen’s Memorial Hospital, Malta. Daily Malta Chronicle, 30th
November 1922 2 The Times [of Malta], 12th September 1918 3 Malta Hospital opened – Merchant Seamen’s War Service. The Times [of Malta], 1st December 1922 4 Daily Malta Chronicle, 30th November 1922.
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King George V Seaman’s Memorial Hospital
In the early 1960s, financial constraints were being felt though the managing trust – the Seaman’s
Christian Friend Society Hospital Trust – resisted the closure of the hospital in Malta since it was
believed that it still had a functional role within the health care delivery system in Malta. A Maltese
Council of Management was established under the presidency of H.E. the Governor Sir Maurice
Dorman GCMG GCVO.4 Early in 1966, a memorandum was drawn up explaining the needs for the
future and set up a Medical Management committee in London under the chairmanship of Sir
Clement Price Thomas, then President of the British Medical Association. In spite of efforts to find
financial support to maintain the hospital, the Trust decided that the hospital would have to be
closed down or to be transferred to the Malta Government. On the 17th November 1966, Sir Price
Thomas sent a letter to the Maltese Minister of Health Dr. Alexander Cachia Zammit suggesting that
the hospital would be taken over by the government indicating that the Trust were in concordance
with this proposal. The trustees decided to close down the hospital on the 31st January 1967. The
Maltese Council of Management prepared a Memorandum for the future of the King George V
Hospital where all the options were laid out.5
The closure of KGV Hospital was discussed during the third council meeting of the Commandery of
Malta of the Military and Hospitaller Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem on the 18th May 1967.6 During
4 The Managing Committee included: Presdent – H.E. Sir Maurice Dorman; Chairman – Paul Sciberras; Secretary – Surgeon Major R.L. Casolani; Members: Dr. Eddie A. Agius; Rev. J.R.L. Ash; Mrs C. Coleiro; J.J. Conroy; Prof. A.J. Craig; Prof. J.E. Debono; Josephine Debono; Capt. M. Everard; J.A. Harding; RN Surg.Crd Dr. J.
Kirkpatrick; J.A. Maitland; Rev. J.M. Milne; Rev. Fr. P. Serracino Inglott; Hon. Dr. Vincent Tabone, Rev. Carmelo Xuereb; and H.E. Sir John Martin; and ex-officio: Matron KGV – J.T. Purcell and Treasurer KGV – R.D. Fiddaman. 5 Letter from the Governor General Sir Maurice Dorman to Lt.Col. J.V. Abela OBE dated 19th July 1967 with
several enclosures. Torri ta’ Lanzun MHOSJ Archives, Malta 6 The Commandery of Malta of the Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem was set up
with ten founder members on the 30th
September 1966. The founder members included: Col. Joseph Vincent Abela [b.1903; d.1975; ad.1964] – Commander of Malta; Elias Zammit KLJ [ad.1967 – GC No. 2] – Hon. Treasurer; Anthony Zammit CLJ [d.2009; ad.1967 – GC No. 3]; Anthony Miceli-Farrugia KLJ [b.1914; d.2002;
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this meeting, it was suggested that the Commandery should endeavour to interest a number of
industrialists to finance the running of the hospital under the auspices of the Order. Should the
financial outlay outstrip the resources of the Commandery, an alternative proposal was to run the
establishment as a clinic. A decision was taken to set up an investigative commission which will seek
to make representations to the Governor General. The Commission made up of Sir Hannibal
Scicluna, Prof. J.V. ZammitMaempel and Anthony Miceli Farrugia met to discuss the matter on the
13th June 1967, wherein A. Miceli-Farrugia reported on his representations made to J.A. Maitland
representing the previous KGV Hospital Managing Committee and to the Hon. Minister of Health.
Both had expressed themselves in favour of the project.7 A delegation from the Commandery of
Malta made up of Col. J.V. Abela, J. Amato-Gauci, A. Miceli-Farrugia, Prof. J.V. Zammit-Maempel and
Sir Hannibal P. Scicluna met on the 19th June with the Governor General. The proposed plan for the
management of KGV Hospital to be taken over by the Order of St Lazarus was warmly received. The
outcome of the meeting was reported to LtCol Robert Gayre Grand Bailiff General and
Commissioner General of the Order wherein a request was made for the support of other
jurisdictions and individual members of the Order.8 In response to this meeting, on the 19th July, the
Governor General sent a number of enclosures relating to the history and management of KGV
Hospital.9
A further meeting was held by the Hospitaller Commission of the Commandery of Malta with the
Governor General with LtCol Gayre and J.A. Maitland in attendance. On the 9th August 1967, LtCol
Gayre made several proposals as to future required actions, including the setting up by the
Commandery of Malta of a Hospitaller Commission which would eventually serve as the Board of
Directors for the Hospital and a Management Committee which would be eventually responsible to
the day-to-day running of the hospital. A Board of Trustees would be responsible for the hospital
funds. The latter was to be made up of: the Grand Master of the Order, the Commissioner-General,
the Grand Bailiffs of England and Scotland, the Grand Administrator of the Order, and further
members nominated by the Commandery of Malta, the Governor-General, the Malta Minister of
Health, and the Scottish Red Cross. The scheduled timeline was to finalise discussion by September
1967, with a view of the Order assuming control of the hospital by the 1st January 1968 and opening
fully functional hospital by March 1968. The proposed funding was to come through the adoption of
beds by various jurisdictions of the Order, the business community of Malta, paying patients, private
trusts such as the Nuffield Foundation, and the British Government.10
ad.1967- GC No. 54] – Referendary; Robert Biasini dei Conti Stagno Navarra KLJ [b.1904; d.1995; ad.1967 – GC No.55] – Chancellor; Prof. Canon Carmelo Muscat KLJ [b.1926; ad.1967] – Chaplain; Prof. J.V. Zammit-Maempel KLJ [b.1912; d.2001; ad.1967 – GC No. 59] – Hospitaller; Ms. Evelyn Abela OLJ [ad.1967 – GC No. 56]; Major Albert Edward Abela OLJ [b.1932; d.2007; ad.1967 – GC No. 57]; Joseph Amato Gauci KLJ [b.1909; d.1995; ad.1967 – GC No. 150] – Hon. Secretary. They were supported by Chev. Sir Hannibal P. Scicluna [b.1880; d.1981; ad.1962 – GC No. 127] who was a member of the Scottish Grand Bailiwick. 7 Minutes of the Third Council Meeting of the Commandery of Malta dated 18th May 1967. Minutes of an
Unofficial Meeting held on the 13th
June 1967. Grand Priory-MHOSLJ Archives, Malta 8 Letter from Sir Hannibal P. Scicluna to LtCol Gayre dated 20th June 1967. Torri ta’ Lanzun MHOSJ Archives,
Malta 9 Vide footnote 6 above. 10 Letter from LtCol Gayre to Mr J. Amato Gauci dated 9th August 1967. Torri ta’ Lanzun MHOSJ Archives, Malta
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While the Malta Minister of Health was interested in the proposal and the offer to use the Order’s
contacts and influence with the original Seaman’s Christian Friend Society Hospital Trust, he
appeared reluctant to commit the Government as to what part the Order would play in the
management of the reopened hospital. LtCol Gayre requested a Letter of Intent from the
Government of Malta to be in a legally viable position to open negotiations with the original Trust.11
The apparent impasse was discussed by the Council of the Commandery of Malta on the 28th
September. During that meeting, it was reported that the Archbishop had been informed and had
given his approval for the Order’s plans for KGV Hospital. During the subsequent Council Meeting of
9th November, LtCol Gayre informed the Council that while the Order as a whole was ready to
finance the running of the hospital, the Minister of Health had given a negative reply to the request
for a Letter of Intent necessary for the Order to enter into negotiations.12 KGV Hospital reverted to
the Malta Government on the 27th November 1967.13
In spite of a number of representations made to the Governor-General and the Minister of Health by
representatives of the Order, no progress was registered in obtaining a Letter of Intent from the
Malta Government. At the Council Meeting of the Commandery of Malta on the 10th October 1968,
a decision was made for a delegation to visit the Minister of Health. The meeting was held on the
21st October 1968. During this meeting, the Minister asked for a formal request from the Order to
take over KGV Hospital stating clearly the purpose the hospital will be used for and who will be the
intended beneficiaries. The Order was to provide proof of having sufficient funds to support the
necessary restorations needed. It appeared that other organizations had shown an interest in
acquiring the hospital as well. This formal application was sent to the Minister of Health on the 2nd
November 1968.14 No response was forthcoming from the Government to the formal application.
During the Council Meeting of the Commandery of Malta on the 6th February 1969, the general
impression obtained after informal talks with the Secretary to the Minister of Health was that the
Order’s application to take over the management of KGV Hospital had little chance of being
considered. It was opinioned that the Sovereign Military Order of Malta may have also shown as
interest in acquiring the property. A request was made to Chev. Surgeon Rear-Admiral D.P. Gurd to
approach the Minister of Health to stress the continuing interest of the Order in acquiring KGV
Hospital. Failing this, the Order would withdraw its formal application.15
11 Letter from Ms. A. Morrison Private secretary to the Grand Bailiff General to Mr. J. Amato Gauci Private
Secretary to H.E. Governor General dated 28th August 1967. Letter from Ms. A. Morrison to Mr J. Amato Gauci
dated 12th October 1967. Torri ta’ Lanzun MHOSJ Archives, Malta. Chev. J. Amato-Gauci was also the Honorary
Secretary of the Commandery of Malta. 12 Minutes of the Fourth Council Meeting of the Commandery of Malta dated 28th September 1967. Minutes of
the Fifth Council Meeting of the Commandery of Malta dated 9th November 1967. Grand Priory-MHOSLJ
Archives, Malta 13 PQ 3849: Hon. K. Agius MP to Hon. Minister of Health. Torri ta’ Lanzun MHOSJ Archives, Malta 14 Minutes of the Ninth Council Meeting of the Commandery of Malta dated 21st October 1968. Grand
PrioryMHOSLJ Archives, Malta; Letter from J.V. Abela to LtCol Gayre dated 21st October 1968. Letter signed by
members of the Commandery of Malta to Hon. Dr. Alexander Cachia Zammit Minister of Health dated 2nd
November 1968. Torri ta’ Lanzun MHOSJ Archives, Malta. 15 Minutes of the Tenth Council Meeting of the Commandery of Malta dated 6th February 1969. Grand Priory-
MHOSLJ Archives, Malta. In fact during the first General Chapter of SMOM held on the 19-21st June 1967, the
Grand Master of SMOM stated “Des accords ont été conclus, et sont en train de se realiser, pour la
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Rear-Admiral Gurd16 met with the Minister of Health Dr. Cachia Zammit on the 21st February 1969.
He was reassured that the Government was still positively disposed towards the application made
by the Order of St. Lazarus though there were still some reservations that needed to be ironed out.
The proposal had to be submitted to the Government Cabinet who had to decide whether the Malta
Government was to assume full responsibility for KGV Hospital or devolve the responsibility to a
managing organization.17 The report of that meeting was presented to the Council of the
Commandery of Malta on the 5th March 1969 and forwarded to the Minister of Health on 7th March
1969. During that Council Meeting, Col. J.V. Abela informed the members that Barclays Bank was
prepared to authorize an advance of £10 000 – 25 000 provided suitable guarantors were available.
It was stated that to date the Grand Master was ready to guarantee £500, LtCol Gayre £1000, Chev.
Zammit £50 and Col. Abela £500. Further guarantors were to be found to make available the
necessary funds.18 On the 31st May 1969, the Malta Government announced that a decision had
been made to take over the management of KGV Hospital.19 On the 6th June 1969, the Commandery
of Malta representing the Order informed the Minister of Health that the Order was withdrawing its
offer to assume the management of King George V Hospital.20
The hospital renamed Sir Paul Boffa Hospital reopened in December 1970 under the management of
the Department of Health.21 The hospital has a symmetrical façade consisting of a central
colonnaded portico with an identical terrace at first floor. The wings are plain having five windows at
both ground and first floor on each side. Built in the shape of the letter "H" with an additional block
erected later, the building is practically surrounded with a veranda at ground floor and a terrace at
first floor, all columned and having wrought iron railings. On the left side are a series of utility
buildings, some of which are not as old as the hospital. Within the hospital are a number of
inscriptions and Second World War relics, including a piece of sculpture from Parliament House in
London. Of note are the stained glass windows in the chapel. The Government Regulatory body
MEPA has scheduled King George V Seaman’s Memorial Hospital as a Grade 2 national monument as
per Government Notice no. 628/08 in the Government Gazette dated July 21, 2008.
constitution de Dispensaires Anti-dibétiques, d’une banque de sang et pour assumer la gestion de l’Hôpital
King George, (sex deux derniéres initiatives relevent de l’Association Maltaise”. Cf J.V. Zammit-Maelpel.
Collected papers on Diabetes in Malta and its cardiovascular complications and some cardiological topics.
University Press, Malta, 1979, p.ix. 16 Surgeon Rear Admiral Dudley P. Gurd QHS, MD, MCH, FRCS, FRACS[Oph], DOMS, Medical Officer-in-charge,
Royal Naval Hospital, Malta. Admitted KLJ to the Order of St. Lazarus GC No. 129 17 Report of a meeting between Rear Admiral D.P. Gurd and the Hon. Minister of Health Dr. Cachia Zammit held
on the 21st February 1969 presented to the Council of the Commandery of Malta on the 5th March 1969 and
forwarded to the Minister of Health on 7th March 1969. Torri ta’ Lanzun MHOSJ Archives, Malta. Dr Cachia
Zammit denied ever having received any offer by the Order of St. Lazarus to manage King George V Hospital.
Vide: PQ 5318 dated 7th April 1969. Torri ta’ Lanzun MHOSJ Archives, Malta. 18 Minutes of the Eleventh Council Meeting of the Commandery of Malta dated 5th March 1969. Grand
PrioryMHOSLJ Archives, Malta. Circular No. 4/69 to members of the Commandery of Malta and subsequent
response letters. Torri ta’ Lanzun MHOSJ Archives, Malta. In the subsequent days, other members of the
Commandery of Malta accepted to serve as guarantors: Prof. Canon C. Muscat £100; and Ant. Miceli-Farrugia
£1000. 19
Il-Haddiem, 31st
May 1969. 20
Letter from J. Amato-Gauci Commandery secretary to Hon. Dr. A. Cachia Zammit Minister of Health dated 4th
June 1969. Torri ta’ Lanzun MHOSJ Archives, Malta. 21 Malta Year Book. De La Salle Brothers Publ., Malta, 1971, p.39
The Modern Order of Saint Lazarus
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