Organization of the OSMTH
The Ordo Supremus Militaris Templi Hierosolymitani (OSMTH) is legally registered under the Swiss Civil Legal Code as an “International Association of Associations.” Its governance is divided into two primary functions:
- Strategic Governance (The Grand Magistral Council): This is the legislative body of the Order. It is comprised of the Grand Commander and the Member Grand Priories (such as the Netherlands). Each Grand Priory is represented by its Grand Prior (or proxy) and holds one decisional vote on international statutes, policies, and budgets.
- Executive Functions (The Magisterium): This body handles the day-to-day management of the Order. It is led by the Grand Commander (CEO) and includes officers such as the Chancellor General (COO) and Treasurer General (CFO). They execute the strategies set by the Council.
- Advisory Bodies: The organization is supported by consultative bodies like the Grand Chapter General (representing membership based on size) and the Pro Merito Council (experienced past officers).
The Netherlands Grand Priory
The Grand Priory of the Netherlands is a full, constituent member of the OSMTH federation. As a recognized Grand Priory, it holds a seat on the Grand Magistral Council, exercising a decisional vote in the international governance of the Order. The Grand Priory of the Netherlands is organised as a Dutch association.
Royal Protection
The connection between His Highness Carl Michael Borwin Alexander Georg Friedrich Franz Hubertus Maria, Duke of Mecklenburg, and the Grand Priory of the Netherlands is rooted in the Royal Patronage of the House of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.
Historically, the House of Mecklenburg has served as the Royal Protector to the Order (a role often held by the Head of the House). As a Duke of this House, His Highness Carl Michael maintains this bond of chivalric tradition. Furthermore, the Duke has personal ties to The Netherlands, having lived there to pursue his university studies (Leiden), reinforcing the relationship between the Ducal House and the Dutch Grand Priory.