The Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem is a historic and global Christian chivalric order, with a well-defined international structure rooted in centuries of tradition and service. Its organisation is designed to maintain unity, ensure effective governance, and uphold the mission of the Order across continents.
Supreme Council
At the helm of the Order is the Supreme Council, the highest governing authority. Chaired by the Prince Grand Master, the Supreme Council holds sole administrative control over all aspects of the Order’s global operations. It is responsible for safeguarding the Constitution and upholding the spiritual and charitable aims of the Order.
Grand Chancery Council
Supporting the Supreme Council is the Grand Chancery Council, led by the Lieutenant Grand Master. This advisory body provides guidance and strategic oversight to the Grand Priories worldwide. It ensures that the Order’s vision and values are consistently applied across all national jurisdictions.
Grand Priories
The Grand Priories are the principal geographic divisions of the Order. Each Grand Priory operates within a defined territory and is led by a Grand Prior, supported by a Grand Priory Council. Their role is to foster the spiritual life, charitable work, and ceremonial functions of the Order at a national or regional level.
Priories and Commanderies
Within each Grand Priory are local units known as Priories and Commanderies, which organise the activities of members in specific regions. These bodies are led by Priors or Commanders and coordinate local charitable initiatives, ceremonies, and fellowship events.
A Unified Mission, A Global Presence
Despite its international reach, the Order remains united by a common purpose: to serve Christ through faith, charity, and honour. Members across all jurisdictions uphold the Order’s ancient customs, spiritual discipline, and commitment to helping the sick and the poor.
From its international headquarters at the Castello dei Baroni in Malta, the Order continues to grow and adapt, honouring its rich heritage while engaging with the modern world through active service and inter-Christian fellowship.