Order of the Commonwealth 

Day of Re affirmation

The Commonwealth of Nations gradually evolved from the British Empire over many generations. By January 22 1971 AD, The Commonwealth from concern over some repressive aspects of some regimes promulgated the Declaration of Commonwealth Principles.

Theses principles were stated to the world to show the aspirations of justice, fair play and tolerance were to be promoted and respected as basic building blocks for the future.

His Excellency by the Grace of God Douglas Prince and Principal Grand Master of the Order of the Commonwealth, decrees, that as of the 22^nd day of January 2002 AD a day of Re-affirmation of the Commonwealth Principles is declared and will be observed annually on this day for all officers and members.

Firstly we may take some time to observe those things that motivated us to aspire to the noble ranks of knighthood. The desire to defend the weak, to help the needy and to render assistance to those who are in suffering or in misfortune.

We are firm in the belief that every person irrespective of race colour, religion, creed ,or gender where so ever they may be has a fundamental right to free speech so long as it is not to the detriment,hurt, or harm of any other person.

That every person has a right to good and comprehensive education.

That every person has a right to decent health care

And that every person has the right to live their life without fear of bias, racial prejudice, bigotry, and fear of violence.

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Chivalry is one of the noblest traits of mankind and he who is possessed of it, is strong to do good, strong to resist evil, and strong to defend the weakest and most vulnerable of society. Chivalry is universally described thus "1 the medieval knightly system with it’s religious, moral and social code", " 2 the combination of qualities expected of an ideal knight", "3 a man’s courteous behaviour especially towards women. Long may we be the shield and defender of the widow and child for it is these desires which make us better men and women."

Members may at some point look for some form of guiding light by which to order their day to day routine; The following Desiderata by Max Ehrmann embodies much of the spirit of The Commonwealth principle and the virtue of Chivalry and is especially pertinent on this day.

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Go Placidly Amid The Noise And Haste, And Remember What Peace There May Be In Silence. - As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly, and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own carreer, however humble it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in you business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is, many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection ,neither be cynical about love, for in the face of aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the council of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of your youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born out of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should be. Therefore be at peace with your God, whatever you conceive him to be. And whatever your labours and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful , strive to be happy.

Desiderata © Max Ehrmann - All Rights Reserved

Nowhere could we find words so eloquently put that better describe the aspirations of the Knights of the Order of the Commonwealth than those of Mahatma Ghandi.

Truth never damages a cause that is just.

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Re-affirmation of the oath

I (name) do solemnly pledge to aid the poor, the orphaned and widowed, and the suffering; To be of upright honour and high principles at all times; And to be of service to all humanity.

I swear always to act in such a way as to add lustre to the Order of the Commonwealth.

Day of Re-affirmation ©2001-2006 Rt.Hon. Lord Beare,   Lord Prior of The Order of St. Andrew of Jerusalem Great Britain & Northern Ireland.  Chaplain of The Order of St. Andrew of Jerusalem.