As an ecumenical Christian Order of Chivalry, membership of the Order of Saint Lazarus is by invitation-only to both men and women who are practicing and committed Christians, are of good character and standing in their community, and who wish to help suffering mankind.

This invitation usually comes from one of our active members, and often, from the leadership at the national or regional level. Interested prospective members must provide a personal CV, and have a favourable personal interview by at least two Knights or Dames of the Order. Those who still wish to continue will then complete detailed application forms, which are then vetted by the Membership Council of the respective national jurisdiction. Should the applicant win approval, both by the proper jurisdictions Council, and subsequently by the Magistry and the Grand Master, the applicant is then invited to join the order as a postulant, and will be invested (typically) at the grade of Member (MLJ) or Officer (OLJ) in due course.

Membership in the Order is truly a lifelong commitment, and should not be taken lightly. We are a working Order, and we have many things to accomplish. If you are still interested in taking up the Cross of St. Lazarus, you are invited to contact the Grand Chancery to get the appropriate form of application. The Constitution of the Order requires that you join through your own national jurisdiction; that is, the national unit, hosted by your country of citizenship (i.e., a citizen of Italy would be required to join through the Grand Priory of Italy). Members not resident in their home countries would still join through their home jurisdictions.