History

The Order of St. John, formerly known of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem, was constituted by Queen Victoria by Royal Charter on May 14, 1888. Membership of the Order is open to suitable candidates of any Christian faith who demonstrate the tenants of the Order by acting to prevent and relieve sickness and injury as well as to enhance the health and well-being of people anywhere in the world. The Order is conferred in 5 grades. Members are most often admitted at lower grades and later promoted to higher grades in recognition of dutiful service and good deads. Membership of the Order is also limited to 35 000 members. There may be additional grades associated with the Order.

For all members of the Order, when the ribbon is worn alone a small silver Maltese cross is worn on the ribbon.

Until 2001, Crosses worn by women were issued in a smaller size. Since 2001, the Cross is worn by men around the neck and by women on the shoulder.

Commanders are entitled to use the post-nominal letters "CStJ" within the organization.

There may be additional versions of the Cross which differ by composition.