The Order of Malta Was Quick To Post This

through their FB page: NOTE OF CLARIFICATION FROM THE SECRETARIAT OF STATE.

Vatican City, (VIS) - In response to frequent requests for information concerning the recognition by the Holy See of Equestrian Orders dedicated to the saints or to holy places, the Secretariat of State considers it opportune to reiterate what has already been published, namely that, other than its own Equestrian Orders (the Supreme Order of Christ, the Order of the Golden Spur, the Pian Order, the Order of Saint Gregory the Great, and the Order of Pope Saint Sylvester), the Holy See recognises and supports only the Sovereign Military Order of Malta - also known as the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta - and the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. The Holy See foresees no additions or innovations in this regard.

All other orders, whether of recent origin or mediaeval foundation, are not recognised by the Holy See. Furthermore, the Holy See does not guarantee their historical or juridical legitimacy, their ends or organisational structures.
To avoid any possible doubts, even owing to illicit issuing of documents or the inappropriate use of sacred places, and to prevent the continuation of abuses which may result in harm to people of good faith, the Holy See confirms that it attributes absolutely no value whatsoever to certificates of membership or insignia issued by these groups, and it considers inappropriate the use of churches or chapels for their so-called "ceremonies of investiture".

Some may believe that it is right to hold on to such traditions, because they have been passed down from preceding generations. Is there a way for a different sort of aristocracy or republicanism to arise in Europe, as the old aristocracy has very little real power (just that which comes with money and nostalgia and some measure of influence in certain circles). I'm probably too American to accept those sort of honors as really meaning much - having the respect of a group of men whom one respects would be sufficient, and when one is a part of that group, that's the sort of honor that really matters. The hollowing out of the state may be a work in progress, but wherever there are men working together as men, there is a potential republic. The honor that goes with a title of nobility may be commensurate with doing some good work or philanthropy or service in the modern nation-state, but can that compare to the honor associated with the deeds, sacrifices, and friendship accompanying life in a real community?

Links:
Sovereign Order of Malta
American Association