This short prayer, most likely originating in 10th century France, was used as a part of the knighting ritual. Although the ritual itself had many variations, this prayer always remained virtually unchanged. It was also included in the official ceremony of accepting a new member into the Teutonic Order. Although the prayer is not specifically mentioned in the Templar Rule its language is reflected in the preface (as noted by J. Frank Henderson in his article “Widows, Queens and Sword-bearers in Medieval Liturgical Prayers“). There is no reason to doubt that this (or very similar) prayer was used by the Knights Templar. Many coronation ceremonies include modified versions of this text.
Benedictio ensis
Exaudi, quaesumus, domine, preces nostras, et hunc ensem, quo his famulus tuus N. se circumcingi desiderat, majestatis tuae dextera benedicere dignare, quatinus defensio atque protectio possit esse ecclesiarum, viduarum, orphanorum omniumque Deo servientium contra saevitiam paganorum, aliisque insidiantibus sit pavor, terror et formido. Per Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen.
Blessing of a sword
Harken, we beseech Thee, O Lord, to our prayers, and deign to bless with the right hand of Thy Majesty this sword with which Thy servant wishes to be girded, that it may be a protection of churches, widows, orphans and all Thy servants against the cruelty of pagans, and may it be the fear, terror and dread of all evil-doers. In the name of Christ the Lord. Amen.
The sword pictured is by Deepeeka. The image is from southernswords.co.uk.
