Originally founded as a hospice brotherhood in the Holy Land, the patron saint of the Order was Mary, the mother of Christ. Her name is included in many place names and she is particularly often represented. The brothers lead monk-like lives according to strict rules, which included regular church services. Among them were also priestly brothers for spiritual and administrative tasks.
The subjugation of non-Christians and their subsequent baptism was the Order’s primary goal. Military fighting was accepted by the church if its purpose constituted a "just cause", such as defence against attacks as well as the establishment of peace and order. In those days it was believed that any unbaptised person had to suffer eternal hell, so conversion was good for their soul. The subjugation of the Old Prussians and campaigns against the Lithuanians were therefore supported not only by the Pope but also by many crusaders who were promised redemption of their sins.
Illustration:
The restored figure of the Virgin Mary on the outer wall of the choir of the Marienkirche
The Patron saint of the Order – the Virgin Mary
As the residence of the Grand Master, the Marienburg (today Malbork Castle) was not only an impressive fortress but was also dominated by an 8 metre high monumental figure of the Virgin. It stood in the outer wall of the apse of the Marienkirche built in the 14th century in the upper part of the castle facing southeast – towards Jerusalem. The monumental figure, decorated with coloured glass mosaics, was destroyed in 1945 and only reconsecrated in 2016 in the presence of the Grand Master.
Photo: Jacek Halicki, Wikipedia Creative Common Licence