About Us
The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, Lieutenancy of England and Wales, hosted the 9th Jerusalem Ball on 12 October 2024 at the historic Gladstone Library, One Whitehall Place. This biennial fundraising event supports the works of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and helps sustain the “Living Stones” (1 Peter 2:5)—Christians who continue to live and practise their faith in the Holy Land despite great adversity.
The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, a Catholic Order of Chivalry with origins dating back to the 11th century, was initially charged with the care and guardianship of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Today, the Order’s mission has expanded, focusing on uplifting communities and preserving the sacred heritage of the Holy Land. It now comprises around 30,000 Knights and Dames worldwide, who help maintain a Christian presence in the region through prayerful and financial support, raising awareness of the current challenges, and organising pilgrimages to the Holy Places. 2024 is particularly significant as it marks the 70th anniversary of the Order’s establishment in England and Wales.
Over the centuries, the Order’s focus has extended beyond buildings to include the “living stones” of the Holy Land—its people. Christians now make up less than 2% of the Holy Land’s population, and their numbers continue to decline amidst economic hardship and other challenges.
While rooted in tradition, the Order’s work is thoroughly modern and forward-looking, providing funds for programmes in education, housing, and employment—projects essential for maintaining and sustaining a Christian presence.
The Jerusalem Ball offers a delightful evening in pleasant company and surroundings, with all profits from the night channelled directly into the Order’s projects in the Holy Land.
For more information about the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre press….
