Order of Saint John (chartered 1888)

Star - Venerable Order of St John

Order of St John (UK) ribbon -vector

Order of St John Flag

Coat of Arms of the Order of St John

Three views on one plate of the Priory of St John of Jerusalem in Clerkenwell by Wenceslaus Hollar

Saint John's Gate Clerkenwell the main gateway to the Priory of Saint John of Jerusalem 1880

Order of Saint John (chartered 1888) is a royal order of chivalry established by Queen Victoria through a Royal Charter in 1888. The Order is part of a global organization known for its humanitarian and charitable work, particularly in the field of health and emergency response. The Order's origins can be traced back to the Knights Hospitaller, a medieval order founded in the 11th century to provide care for sick, poor, or injured pilgrims to the Holy Land. Over centuries, the Order evolved, facing dissolution and reformation, until its re-establishment in its current form in the late 19th century.

History

The modern Order of Saint John traces its roots to the Knights Hospitaller, also known as the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem. After the Protestant Reformation, the order in England was dissolved by Henry VIII, and its properties were confiscated. The Order was revived in England in the 19th century, focusing on charitable and humanitarian efforts. In 1888, Queen Victoria granted a Royal Charter to the British branch of the order, formally recognizing it as the Order of Saint John.

Organization

The Order of Saint John is organized into priories, commanderies, and subordinate establishments worldwide. It is governed by a Grand Council, and the Sovereign Head of the Order is the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom, currently Queen Elizabeth II. The Order's work is primarily focused on health and welfare services, including the operation of the St John Ambulance, a leading first aid, health, and ambulance service.

Activities

The Order's most notable activity is the operation of St John Ambulance, which provides first aid training, ambulance services, and support to health systems, especially in times of crisis or emergency. The Order also engages in various charitable activities, including eye care and health services in developing countries through the St John Eye Hospital Group in Jerusalem.

Membership

Membership in the Order of Saint John is by invitation only and is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service to the Order's humanitarian goals or to the community at large. Members are entitled to wear the Order's insignia and are classified into different grades, such as Bailiff or Dame Grand Cross, Knight or Dame of Justice or Grace, and others.

Insignia

The insignia of the Order includes the badge, star, and mantle. The badge design varies by grade but generally features the white eight-pointed Maltese Cross. The mantle is black, lined with white silk, and worn with a black velvet cap with a white plume for formal occasions.

Impact and Recognition

The Order of Saint John has been recognized for its significant contributions to public health and emergency response. Its volunteers and professionals play a crucial role in providing first aid and medical services, particularly in regions lacking adequate health care infrastructure.

Order of Saint John (chartered 1888) Resources
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