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Conclave 2025

Loretto Chapel - Santa Fe, New Mexico

In a world where history and faith intertwine, we honor commitment to Christ and the values of knighthood. Our oath signifies a sacred duty, guiding us to serve with honor and integrity. Together, we stand blessed, in the principles of our churches and fostering a brotherhood rooted in love, respect and tradition. Let us strive to embrace these ideals in all that we do.

On Monday Oct 27th, 2025, members of OMSDT Knights Templar arrived at the Loretto Chapel for our second annual Conclave. The ceremony bestowed three new knighthoods and two merit awards. It was a blessing to be gathered here together. The photos in this gallery are from this event.

OMSDT Conclave 2025

As the ceremony begins, the esteemed members of OMSDT gracefully marched into the chapel, their presence a testament to the sacred traditions they follow. The atmosphere is filled with reverence as they prepare for this holy occasion, embodying the valor of the Knights Templar. Their commitment to the principles they represent shines through, setting the stage for a memorable and meaningful event.

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Grand Prior Derek Nordio opened the ceremony and welcomed members and guests to our Conclave. He then introduced the Grand Master Rick Trujillo. The Grand Master commenced the ceremony and he requested our Grand Chaplain Fr. John Kelmy do an opening prayer. After the prayer, he prepared and offered the communion.

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The GM awarded the first Accolade to SFC Anthony Bucher. After reading a ceremonial passage for knighthood, GP tapped his heels with spurs. He was then dubbed by the sword and his mantle placed on his shoulders by PAGE Heather.  GC Fr. John then placed a neck cross on him and the GM presented him as Sir Anthony Bucher.

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The GM awarded the second Accolade to SGT Andrew Dunar. After reading a ceremonial passage for knighthood, GP tapped his heels with spurs. He was then dubbed  by the sword and his mantle placed over his shoulders by PAGE Heather. GC Fr. John then placed a neck cross on him and the GM presented him as Sir Andrew Dunar.

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The GM awarded the final Accolade to 1SGT Joseph DePiero. After reading a ceremonial passage for knighthood, GP tapped his heels with spurs. He was then dubbed by the sword and his mantle placed on his shoulders by PAGE Heather. GC Fr. John then placed a neck cross on him and the GM presented him as Sir Joseph DePiero.

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Congratulations to our three new knights! (Left to Right) Sir Anthony Bucher, Sir Joseph DePiero and Sir Andrew Dunar. May your journey ahead be filled with joy and blessings. Embrace this honor and wear your title proudly as you embark on a new journey as knights.

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We paid homage to the original knights who founded our esteemed Order. We  light nine candles in their honor, each representing their bravery, dedication, and legacy. This solemn ceremony will remind us of their sacrifices and inspire to uphold the values they established. Let us remember together to celebrate their enduring spirit and commitment to our cause.

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GP Derek Nordio presented two merit awards, one for Prior William Ryan and one for Master Commander Amanda Moreno. Prior William has done a great job leading the Priory of St. Joan of Arc and MC Amanda has done a great job leading the Priory of St. Helena, in such a short time, as she progresses towards becoming a Prior.

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Sir Anthony Bucher

Sir Andrew Dunar

Sir Joseph DePiero

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Prior William (left photo) and Knight Captain Ben (right photo) both safeguarded the entrances during the ceremony.

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GM Rick Trujillo & GP Derek Nordio

GM Rick Trujillo, GP Derek Nordio

and GC Fr. John Kelmy

GP Derek Nordio, PAGE Heather

and GC Fr. John Kelmy

Prior William Ryan and GC Fr. John Kelmy

Back row: GP Derek, GC John, GM Rick, KCP Ben, Prior William 

Front row: Sir Anthony, PAGE Heather, KLT Rebecca, MC Amanda, Sir Joseph, and Sir Andrew

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Group photo in front of the "Miraculous Staircase" at Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a famous, helix-shaped spiral staircase.

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We shared a meal before the ceremony with the Knight Aspirants (left photo) and a meal was also shared after the ceremony (right photo) with everyone, marking the end of our Conclave.

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"Thank you to everyone who contributed to making our event a wonderful experience. It was truly a blessing to have gathered at the beautiful Loretto Chapel. Your support and participation made all the difference and I am grateful for each and everyone of you." - Grand Prior Derek Nordio

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