Timeline of Key Events

Our Journey Through History

Historical Milestones

Key Events in Our History

1879
Catholic benevolent societies merged to form the Roman Catholic Union of the Knights of St. John
1886
Official incorporation in New York on May 6, 1886
1933
Introduction to Ghana (then Gold Coast). Sacred Heart Commandery No. 351 was inaugurated in Accra, marking the organisation's formal introduction to Africa
1978
Establishment of Sacred Heart Commandery No. 420 in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The inaugural ceremony welcomed 42 members, placing Sierra Leone under the jurisdiction of the West African Grand Commandery in Ghana
1995
Grant of Grand Commandery status (under Ghana Supreme Subordinate)
2006
Expansion to provincial areas in Sierra Leone, extending activities beyond Freetown and strengthening presence across provincial communities
2017
Establishment of Supreme Subordinate status and creation of two Grand Commanderies: Freetown/Makeni and Bo/Kenema. This marked a significant milestone in the organization's growth and autonomy in Sierra Leone

A Legacy of Growth

From humble beginnings in 1879 New York to our current presence across Sierra Leone, the Knights of St. John International has maintained its commitment to faith, fraternity, and service. Today, we continue to grow and serve communities through our 27 commanderies across the nation.

Each milestone in our timeline represents not just organizational growth, but the expansion of our mission to serve more communities, support more members, and make a greater impact through our charitable initiatives and spiritual programs.

Learn More About Our History

Read Full History About the Order