Crusader Forces

Throughout history, the Church has found itself embroiled in warfare or embattled by a besieging foe. In such dire circumstances, the Church has turned to the military for its defense, going so far as to recruit and raise armies of its own.
Known as the Crusader Forces, Crusader Hosts or the Crusading Chapters, these military organizations primarily serve the Church and defend it from all threats both internal and external. The heads of each Chapter usually have a place within the Sanhedrin and may be members of the Order of Priests, although this not always need be.
As official soldiers in the employ of the Church, the Crusader Forces will be able to act with the authority and resources of the Church itself. In areas where the Church holds much sway, Crusading Chapters will enjoy many privileges and will probably hold a position of authority within society.
== Crusader Saints: ==
What makes the Crusader Forces so special, what really gives them an edge in battle, is the patronage they have under the 'Crusader Saints.' These Saints specialize in providing protection and holy power to the armies of the Church.
Crusader Saints frequently appear over the battlefields of major wars, offering light and protection to those who fight on the side of the Church. They usually appear in the guise of a soldier, sword in hand and ready to fight. Most Crusader Saints were warriors during their own lifetimes.
== Using The Crusader Forces In The Omniverse: ==
Remember that there are a seemingly infinite number of alternate universes. Whose to say that in some of them, those Crusading Chapters found on our Earth didn't acquire the power to travel to other Realms? Crusaders are handy as adventurers and fighters for the Church, and using them in fantasy settings is just fine.
You shouldn't need to really explain why Hospitaller o Lazarite knights are showing up in a fantasy Realm, after all, the Omniverse is choke full of strange surprises.
== Chapter List: ==
-Order of the Dragon
-Knights of St. Lazarus
-Order of the Holy Sepulchre
-Knights Hospitallers
-Knights Templar (formerly)
-Teutonic Knights
Category:Templar
Category:Church
Category:War