Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Florida
Florida Priory of Research
Promoting Templar scholarship, preserving chivalric history, and advancing Masonic education throughout the Grand Jurisdiction of Florida.
The Florida Priory of Research was established under the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Florida to promote, encourage, conduct, and foster research and study related to Masonic Templar topics. Through scholarship, publications, educational programs, and historical preservation, the Priory seeks to spread further Masonic light and deepen the understanding of the Orders of Christian Knighthood.
Functions
The authority of the Florida Priory of Research includes, but is not limited to:
- Publishing volumes containing articles and papers focused on Masonic Templar topics.
- Issuing newsletters and educational bulletins on a periodic basis.
- Establishing Templar educational symposia for the benefit of Sir Knights throughout the jurisdiction.
- Educating members in the meaning, teachings, symbolism, history, and lessons of the several Orders exemplified within the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Florida.
- Encouraging the preservation of Templar history, ritual, tradition, and scholarship for future generations.
Leadership
2025–2026 Officers
Eminent Prior
Frank Kiefer
Deputy Prior
Manny Lozada
Secretary / Treasurer
Joshua Schutts
Past Priors
2022 — Scott Schwartzberg
2023 — Joshua Schutts
2024 — Garry Paxinos
Meetings
The regular Conclave of the Florida Priory of Research is held at such times and places as determined by its duly authorized officers.
The Annual Conclave is traditionally held at a time and place near March 18, in commemoration of the martyrdom of Jacques DeMolay, the last Grand Master of the ancient Knights Templar.
Membership
Regular Membership in the Florida Priory of Research is open to any Sir Knight in good standing within the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Florida.
Sir Knights with an interest in Templar history, symbolism, philosophy, education, writing, and research are encouraged to participate in preserving and expanding the body of knowledge surrounding the Masonic Templar Orders.
In Hoc Signo Vinces
The Florida Priory of Research exists to preserve the history and symbolism of the Masonic Templar Orders while inspiring Sir Knights to pursue study, reflection, and further Masonic light through chivalric scholarship.
The Florida Priory of Research exists to preserve the history and symbolism of the Masonic Templar Orders while inspiring Sir Knights to pursue study, reflection, and further Masonic light through chivalric scholarship.
