The History of the Order

Fake Chivalric Orders: Understanding the Illusion and Reality

Chivalric orders have long been romanticized in literature and history, evoking images of noble knights, heroic deeds, and the pursuit of honour and virtue. However, not all chivalric orders hold the same weight of legitimacy. The distinction between genuine and fake orders is crucial for understanding the cultural and historical significance of these institutions.

Chivalric orders are typically established to promote specific ideals, such as bravery, loyalty, and service to humanity. Historically, these orders were often associated with the medieval knightly class and were characterized by a set of rituals, symbols, and codes of conduct. Genuine orders often have a proven lineage, historical significance, and a clear mission or purpose.

In contrast, fake chivalric orders may lack these foundational elements, often being established for personal gain, political manoeuvring, or mere vanity. They might adopt the trappings of legitimacy, such as elaborate ceremonies and uniforms, but typically do not possess the historical pedigree or meaningful commitment to the values they espouse. This distinction is critical because the proliferation of spurious orders can dilute the cultural and historical significance of authentic chivalric traditions.

Genuine chivalric orders often have roots in the medieval period, with many tracing their lineage back to the knights of various realms who were dedicated to specific virtues and causes, such as the defence of Christianity or the protection of the weak. Examples include the Order of the Knights Templar, the Order of Saint John, and the Order of St Lazarus. These organizations were not only military in nature but often engaged in charitable works and contributed to the social fabric of their time.

The legitimacy of a chivalric order can usually be assessed through its historical documentation, recognition by sovereign entities, and adherence to traditional practices. An authentic order typically has a well-documented history, including significant contributions to society, and often enjoys acknowledgment from established governments or monarchies. Such recognition can lend credibility and prestige, as these orders often play a role in ceremonial and diplomatic functions.

On the other hand, fake orders may arise from individuals or groups seeking to exploit the romanticism associated with knighthood. These entities might create elaborate myths about their origins or claim connections to historical figures and events that are either tenuous or entirely fabricated. They often lack transparency regarding their purpose and activities, and their membership can be more about social status than a genuine commitment to the ideals of chivalry.

Understanding the difference between genuine and fake chivalric orders is essential for preserving the integrity of these storied institutions. It allows us to celebrate and honour the legacy of true chivalry while also guarding against the appropriation and commercialization of its ideals. In a modern context, as we continue to grapple with the meanings of honour, virtue, and service, the lessons from authentic chivalric orders can still resonate, reminding us of the noble pursuits that transcend time and continue to shape our values today.

Characteristics of Fake Chivalric Orders

Lack of Historical Basis: One of the primary indicators of a fake chivalric order is the absence of a verifiable historical foundation. Genuine orders usually have documented histories that trace their origins back to specific events, noble figures, or significant historical periods. In contrast, fake orders often emerge without any substantial historical context or credible lineage.
Absence of Rigorous Membership Criteria: Legitimate chivalric orders often have stringent criteria for membership, including noble ancestry, proven service, or notable achievements. Fake orders tend to be more inclusive, allowing anyone to join, often for a fee. This lack of selectivity undermines the exclusivity and prestige traditionally associated with chivalric orders.
Questionable Leadership: Genuine chivalric orders are typically led by individuals of recognized status, often with noble lineage or significant contributions to society. Fake orders may be run by self-proclaimed leaders with dubious credentials, lacking the respect or recognition of the broader historical or social community.
Commercialization: The commercialization of chivalric ideals often leads to the creation of fake orders. When the focus shifts from noble principles to profit-making, the authenticity of the order is compromised. Fake orders may charge exorbitant fees for membership, medals, and titles, commodifying what should be a noble pursuit.
Vague or Non-existent Objectives: While genuine orders are driven by clear missions—such as charitable work, cultural preservation, or military service—fake orders often lack defined goals. This vagueness can be a red flag, indicating that the order may be more about self-aggrandizement than meaningful contributions to society.
Absence of Rituals and Traditions: Authentic chivalric orders are characterized by rich traditions and rituals that reinforce their values and create a sense of community among members. Fake orders, on the other hand, may lack these cultural elements or have poorly constructed imitations that do not resonate with the historical significance of true chivalry.
Structured Governance: A legitimate chivalric order should be governed by a recognized body, often comprised of distinguished members who uphold the values and mission of the order. This governance structure ensures accountability and fosters a sense of legitimacy.
Community Engagement: Genuine chivalric orders often engage in charitable activities, contributing positively to society. This commitment to service is a hallmark of true chivalry and distinguishes authentic orders from their fake counterparts.
Evaluate Transparency: Genuine orders are typically transparent about their operations, funding, and community involvement. Fake orders may be secretive or evasive.
Fons Honorum: "Fons honorum" is a Latin term that translates to "fountain of honours." It refers to the source or authority from which honours, titles, or privileges of genuine Order are bestowed. In historical contexts, it often pertains to the power of a sovereign or a governing body to grant titles of nobility or other forms of recognition. In modern usage, the term can also be applied more broadly to discussions about the legitimacy and authority behind various honours or accolades in different spheres, including academia, politics, and social status.

The Implications of Fake Chivalric Orders

The existence of fake chivalric orders can have several implications:

Dilution of Chivalric Ideals: Fake orders can dilute the meaning and significance of chivalry, reducing it to a mere commercial venture or a means of self-promotion. This undermines the noble values that genuine orders represent.
Confusion and Misrepresentation: The proliferation of fake orders can confuse the public and misrepresent the historical significance of legitimate chivalric institutions. This can lead to a lack of understanding and appreciation for the genuine orders that have played vital roles in history.
Erosion of Trust: When individuals or institutions are deceived by fake orders, it can lead to a general erosion of trust in all chivalric institutions. This scepticism can hinder the efforts of legitimate orders to gain support and recognition.
Exploitation of Aspirations: Fake orders often exploit individuals' desires for belonging and recognition, charging fees for membership or titles that hold no real value. This exploitation can have financial and emotional repercussions for those seeking genuine connections.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinction between fake and genuine chivalric orders is essential for preserving the integrity of these institutions. Genuine orders are rooted in history, uphold noble values, and engage meaningfully with their communities. In stark contrast, fake chivalric orders often emerge as exploitative entities that capitalize on the romanticized notion of chivalry without a genuine commitment to its principles. These counterfeit organizations may lack a historical foundation or transparent purpose, often using the allure of titles, medals, or prestigious-sounding names to attract individuals seeking status or recognition. Their activities may primarily focus on self-aggrandizement, fundraising for dubious causes, or promoting personal agendas, rather than engaging in meaningful service or community involvement. Members of fake orders may not be held to any significant ethical standards, leading to a dilution of the values that genuine chivalric orders strive to uphold.

Recognizing the characteristics of both genuine and fake chivalric orders is vital for individuals navigating this landscape. Those interested in joining such organizations should conduct thorough research, looking for evidence of authenticity—such as historical documentation, a clear mission statement, and a track record of charitable activities. Engaging with current members and seeking testimonials can further illuminate the organization's integrity. Additionally, potential members should be wary of orders that offer quick membership or require little more than a financial contribution, as these are often hallmarks of counterfeit groups.

By appreciating the rich heritage of true chivalry, individuals can contribute to the preservation of genuine chivalric orders while remaining vigilant against their counterfeit forms. The continued existence of authentic chivalric orders enriches society, promoting values that encourage individuals to act with honour and serve their communities selflessly. In contrast, allowing fake orders to flourish undermines the very ideals that these institutions represent and can lead to a broader mistrust of all chivalric organizations.

Ultimately, understanding the distinction between genuine and fake chivalric orders is not merely an academic exercise but a necessary endeavour to ensure that the legacy of chivalry continues to inspire future generations. By championing authentic orders and rejecting those that are fraudulent, individuals can help maintain the integrity and significance of these noble institutions in a modern context.

As with other Orders, there are numerous "fake orders" associated with St. John. These typically refer to unauthorized or illegitimate organizations that assert a connection to, or recognition by, the historical Orders of St. John, especially the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (SMOM) and the Russian Order of St. John. . These organizations often use the name and symbols of the legitimate Orders to promote themselves, raise funds, or gain credibility, but they lack legitimacy. The Fake Orders have no historical legacy, and potentially exploit individuals for financial gain. Theses Fake Orders have no Fons Honorum, no legal recognition in their respective country and no financial records and traceability. ny of these groups are headed by individuals whose primary goal is to profit for their own benefit. After extravagant ceremonies and lavish dinners, they often disappear without a trace.

The history of the Order of St John

The Knights’ origins are to be linked to a particular moment in European history: the resurgence of the Latin West as a Mediterranean power. The first crusade, called by Pope Urban II in A.D. 1095 and the consolidation of power to keep the conquests of Christian powers provided as a backdrop for the approval of the Order of St. John as an Order of the Church in A.D. 1113. The institution developed an internal hierarchy, where rank was associated with different grades of power and functions.

Founded by the blessed Gerald at first the Order focused on the care of sick but then also contributed to the defence of the territories. Their evolution into warrior monks arose from the pressure brought to bear from the realities of conditions encountered by Christians in the East, in particular the continuous need for armed resistance to the Seljuk first, the Mamelukes later, and ultimately the Ottoman Turks.

Those seeking admittance to the Order were to take the vows of chastity, obedience and poverty, and to follow the Augustinian rule. One also had to belong to the nobility. The recruitment of Knights from different areas of Western Europe would lead to the formation of the eight Tongues / languages. The countries that composed these tongues are France, Italy, Germany, England Aragon, Auvergne, Provence and Castile. Each langue was assigned different responsibilities.

After the loss of the Holy Land to Seljuk Turks the Knights first settled in Crete, then joined the Templars in Cyprus. King Henri II was against their settlement in his kingdom and he issued out a solemn edict forbidding them to buy any estates. The need to be free started a chain of actions which saw Grand Master Guillaume de Villaret orchestrating an audacious plan for his Order. The acquisition of temporal domain with the capture of the island of Rhodes.

This island’s geographical position could ideally serve as port of call for the Christian pilgrims on their route to Jerusalem, while considering it as a stepping stone towards the liberation of the Holy Land from Muslim control.

The island of Rhodes came to represent a Garden of Eden for the Knights with fertile plains, a mild climate and plenty of water. Yet the tenancy of Rhodes would soon be challenged. The first significant attack was mounted in A.D. 1440. Other attacks followed leading to the first siege of Rhodes of A.D. 1480 and lastly to the second siege of A.D. 1522, by Suleiman the magnificent.

The loss of Rhodes pitched the Order’s administration into crisis, and dealt a big blow to any vestigial nostalgia for the medieval ideals of chivalry that had been built up over the 200 years stay on this island.

In AD 1524, Charles V of Spain offered the islands of Malta and the city of Tripoli (Libya) to the Order of St John. The donation of this small island situated just below Sicily and facing the north African coast seemed inadequate to the Knights. A first exploration of Malta’s feasibility occurred that same year. A commission of Uomini Saggi (wise and knowledgeable men) consisting of eight persons, one for each Tongue of the Order, was sent to Malta to examine the its facilities. Their report was very negative, for the island lacked all basic requirements, like water, fertile soil, fortifications and was in a dilapidated state. The only positive comment concerned its natural harbours.

Pope Clement VII advised the Hospitallers that there was no other place for them in Europe and must accept Charles V offer. The Order council heeded the Pope’s advice and between Malta and Tripoli, the former was chosen as their new settlement.

L’Isle Adam was the first of a series of Grandmasters who ruled these Islands for 268 years. A new era had begun for strategic Malta.

The Hospitallers refused to establish the seat of their Convent in the old city of Mdina, which was a castle amidst rural environment, and instead preferred to settle in the harbour town of Birgu, this being more in accordance with their military and naval requirements.

The illustrious hero of the Siege of Rhodes, L’Isle Adam, died in A.D.1534, and after a succession of four more Grand Masters, Jean Parisot de Valette was in place by A.D.1557.

The Great Siege of A.D. 1565. is what made the Order famous in history. The Knights and the Maltese heavily outnumbered stopped the mighty army of Suleiman the magnificent. The siege lasted 4 months with both sides suffering heavy causalities.

The most important fortification on which the Order started to work upon right after the Great Siege was that of the building of a new city on the barren ground of Sciberras Peninsula and was named for the Grand Master and hero of the siege Jean Parisot de Vallette.

The Order had effective and firm control in Malta. There were, however, two other authorities on the island, namely the Bishop of Malta and the Inquisitor of Malta, with whom friction sometimes arose over the degree of jurisdiction the various authorities had over the Maltese. The most significant episode in the Knights’ patronage of the arts occurred when they employed Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio (A.D.1573 – 1610). He remained on the island for fifteen months and painted some of his masterpieces during that time, including the beheading of St John the Baptist for the Oratory of Saint John’s church in Valetta,

On the morning of 9th June A.D.1798, the fleet of Napoleon Bonaparte stopped in Malta on its way to Egypt. Bonaparte requested the Grand Master’s permission to enter the fleet in the harbour with the pretext to take water supplies, but was refused. Bonaparte took this refusal as a personal affront and ordered the invasion of the island. The disembarking French soldiers were faced with little or no opposition as the various garrisons in the massive fortifications surrendered, offering abject or no resistance. The Grand Master accepted a truce and three days later the capitulation was complete, with the Order signing the agreement by which it ceded Malta to the Republican forces of France. Grand Master Ferdinand von Hompesch and a bevy of knights with a few of their movable possessions sailed ignominiously out of Grand Harbour.

The Knights were left devastated by the loss of Malta, and the consequences that followed were truly appalling. It shattered their sense of pride and left them reeling with a deep sense of sorrow and loss. In the wake of this tragedy, the internal differences within the Order that had previously been present but relatively subdued became more pronounced and impossible to ignore.

Over the course of the next few decades, the divisions between different sections of the Order became increasingly evident and reached a climax in the formation of separate factions within the Order of St John. These factions, which emerged as a result of the discord, now operate independently from one another in carrying out charitable work for the sick and the impoverished.

The creation of these separate factions marked a significant turning point in the history of the Order. No longer was it a cohesive entity working towards a common goal. Instead, it became a fractured institution. Each faction chose to operate independently, with its own set of priorities and projects, particularly focusing on providing assistance to the sick and underprivileged. This division within the Order of St John serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of discord and the impact it can have on a once-unified organization.

The Knights of Malta in Russia.

Relations between the Russian empire and the Order of St John were initially established a century prior to their eventual expulsion from Malta. This occurred when, in A.D. 1698, the Russian ambassador, Boris Petrovich Sheremetev, received a welcoming reception in Valletta from the Order's Grand Master, Raymond de Pereylos. Despite Sheremetev's affiliation with the Russian orthodox religion, he was bestowed the honour of becoming a Knight of the Catholic Order, thus becoming the first Russian to join their ranks. In subsequent years, Empress Catherine II sent Russian naval officers to Malta to conduct special military training with the Knights of St John

After the capitulation of Malta to the French and the renunciation of Ferdinand von Hompesch of all authority, rights and privileges according to the Convention he signed with Napoleon Bonaparte in Malta on 12th June A.D.1798, there followed the establishment of Paul I, (then Royal Protector of the Order and Emperor of All the Russias), as Grand Master on 13th November A.D. 1798. He was elected by a large assembly of Knights and Grand Crosses (some 249 knights) of the Order in St Petersburg, who addressed a Proclamation to Paul I dated 27th October A.D. 1798.

Paul I had earlier been appointed Royal Protector of the Sovereign Order of St John of Jerusalem by a Convention signed in St Petersburg in January 1797, duly authorized by the Order’s Grand Council under Grand Master Fra Emmanuel de Rohan Polduc, predecessor of von Hompesch. The same Hompesch ratified the treaty in August of the same year, sending an act of thanks to the Czar, who ratified the Convention in November A.D. 1797. That Convention also authorized the creation of Hereditary jurisdictions in the vast Russian empire. In fact, by the same Convention of 15th January A.D. 1797, authorized by Grand Master de Rohan in Malta, the Grand Priory of Poland, with ten Commanderies, became formally recognized by the Order in Malta to belong to the domain of the Russian Emperor and became known as the ‘Grand Priory of Russia’. The same Convention was again ratified by the new Grand Master von Hompesch on 7th August A.D.1797, together with a solicitation made to Paul I to be the Royal Protector of the Order.

On the 27th October A.D.1798, Paul I was proclaimed Grand Master by the Catholic and Orthodox Grand Priories of Russia, Poland, Bohemia, Bavaria and Germany and by all the Knights in St Petersburg. Around two hundred and forty-nine Knights were present for the proclamation in St Petersburg at the time, including the Papal Nuntius Lorenzo Litta. A great number of French Knights who had immigrated to Russia also elected Czar Paul I, some after having been admitted into the Catholic Russian Grand Priory, on the advice of King Louis XVIII of France, who happened to be exiled in Russia. He too recognised Czar Paul I as Grand Master. On the 5th November A.D.1798, Pope Pius VI wrote to Bailiff Alexander de Litta confirming his co-operation with Paul I in restoring the Order and inviting other Tongues and Priories to join in this spirit.

On the 29th August A.D.1799 Pope Pius VI fell ill and died. Napoleon instructed that no successor is to be elected. The Papacy was suppressed for ten months; this meant a collapse of the Church’s central administration and an end to any remnant ties it had with the old Order with regards jurisdiction, not that there was any left. Czar Paul I was now the sole and undisputed protector of the Order of St John.

On the 13th October A.D. 1799, the Supreme Council decided that the dignity of the Protector would not be used for the time being as Czar Paul I was Grand Master.

The two Russian Grand Priories accounted for six hundred and forty-eight members, thirty percent being non-Russian (French, Italian, German, Irish), twenty-six Family Commanderies, five Honorary Commanders, Hereditary Commanders (non-family).

On 31st October A.D.1799, Admiral Nelson wrote a letter to Czar Paul addressing him as Grand Master to confirm that Captain Ball would hold Malta for him and to make Captain Ball commander of the Order.

The Maltese cross was included in the emblem of the Russian Empire from August A.D.1799 to 1801.

Following Paul I demise, his son Czar Alexander I, assumed full control of the Order and appointed Nicholas Saltykoff as its Lt Grand Master. The treaty of Amiens of 1802, decreed that Malta was to be returned to its original owner the Order of St John. This outcome prevented Alexander I, as Czar of all Russias, to officially assume the title of Grand Master, for it implied leaving Russia and reside in Malta, something which he who had just inherited the Russian Empire, surely could not do. However, he kept the title of Royal Protector of the Order for life.

Giving the current situation it was therefore imperative for the Order to appoint a Grand Master and retake control of Malta. However, wars and European political turmoil prevented the retake of Malta by the Knights. Czar Alexander and his successors kept the title of Royal Protectors of the Order. In1810/1811, Alexander I enacted a number of Imperial Decrees (UKAS) the main motive of which was to gain the property and money of the Order in Russia for the war chest in the struggle against Napoleon. These Decrees created a fiscal and legal separation of the Order’s Orthodox main Grand Priory of St. John from the Roman Catholic Grand Priory in Poland, with the latter being returned to the control of Pope Pius VII (successor of Pius VI).

Besides hereditary titles the Order educated young men at the school, the Corps des Pages, in St. Petersburg. The Corps des Pages was the academy for the creation of new Knights of Malta. The graduates of this school became leaders of the exclusive Guard Divisions and thereby protectors of the Imperial Family of Russia.

The Russian Order of St John

The Russian Order of St John, after its separation from the Catholic branch in Italy, was reorganized and integrated with the Russian state in 1810/11. The main purpose of this reorganization was to reduce state costs and generate funds for the war efforts against Napoleon. Unlike in other countries where the Order was closed and later reopened, the Order in Russia continued to exist without any interruption. The Commanderies in Russia were not suppressed or seized, but instead, the Knights themselves agreed to purchase them. There are no Imperial Decrees (UKAS) or other Royal Proclamations indicating that the Order was ever closed.

Claims that the Order in Russia was ever closed rely solely on one unconvincing piece of evidence, known as the Lazareff note. This note, issued by the committee of ministers, was a response to cornet Lazareff's request to wear the cross of the Order on his uniform. The Lazareff brothers had obtained Knighthood of the Order of St John through the Duke of Serracapriola, who mediated their appointment. While license to wear the Order’s cross was granted to his two brothers it was refused to him.

This decision was made because in 1817, the Russian Roman Catholic Priory, which was certainly part of the Order of the Pope, was awarding decorations in Russia to raise funds, and the Duke of Serracapriola, being a Roman Catholic, was a member of this Order. The Russian Order had already been reformed by the state six years prior, with no involvement from Serracapriola. Thus, indicating that he was selling titles for the Catholic Order. Nevertheless, had it been a Russian decoration, no military acknowledgment from the state would have been required, clearly indicating that the decoration was foreign and the issuer is unrecognized and consequently deemed non-existent. The individuals receiving decorations from the Duke of Serracapriola were being made members of the Catholic Russian Priory, which was no longer recognized by the domestic Grand Priory of Russia and the Russian monarchy. The Papal Order ceased admitting Orthodox Knights after 1819, likely due to this note. The eagerness shown by the Lazareff's brothers to don the insignia of the Order highlights its lively appeal, with individuals willing to invest considerable sums to be affiliated with it. This interest indicates a strong desire to belong, suggesting that it was far from a mere death Order.

The one-time Professor of Law at St Petersburg University, and Adviser to the Foreign Office of Nicholas II, Baron Michel de Taube, wrote concerning this episode: "The Emperor interdicted the reception of insignia from Italy of the Order and their wear in Russia without a previous authorisation of the Czar. This measure was taken by the Cabinet of Ministers and sanctioned by the emperor on the request of military chiefs of three Lazareff junior officers, who had received one after another, directly from Italy, Crosses of Malta and were suspected to have obtained them thanks to sizable amounts of money being poured into the treasury of the Grand Magistracy", L'Empereur Paul I de Russie, Grand Maître de l'Ordre de Malte, et son Grand Prieuré Russe, Paris 1955, page 42.

No other documentation has ever been found that provides any indication of the disbandment or obstruction of the operations of the Order in Russia. Given the significant importance of the Order and its close association with the Czar and his inner circle, it would have surely been evidenced by a royal proclamation through official channels or some other official communication. Moreover, just ten years prior to the writing of this note, the Russian Order boasted a membership of approximately 600 Knights. It is therefore highly unlikely that every single member would have abruptly vanished without a trace. Numerous books and documents from the 19th century reinforce the fact that the Order of St John indeed maintained a presence in Russia, enjoying the protection of the Emperor himself. The Emperor, serving as the head of the Chapter, ensured the Order's continuity in the country. While the connection between the Russian Chapter and its counterpart in Rome was characterized as loose, it nonetheless existed and affirmed the Order's legitimacy.

The Order continued its tradition in Russia until the Bolshevik revolution, were several members of the Romanoff dynasty and high-ranking members of the Order in the Russian realm eventually expanded into the New World, such as the USA, Canada, the Americas, and Australasia. On 18th January 1911 the Order’s Statute was registered in America. Together with the first Trademark. In 1913, Grand Duke Alexander Michaelovich was elected Grand Master. The Order was led by Lt Grandmasters during the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s during which the Order gained international recognition. In the 60’s in was offered a place in the UN as an observer status, but was refused. The Order flourished and eventually expanded into Europe; Malta included. In 1976, after long discussions held in America the Supreme Council decided to transfer the International Headquarters of the Order from America to Malta. The island was once again home of the Order. Malta as in the past was to serve as base for the Order’s charity work World Wide and in 1991, Castello dei Baroni was elevated as seat of the Grand Magisterial Chancery and seat of the supreme council and reining seat of the Grand Master.

Today, one therefore understands, from these geo-political events, why there are different branches of the original Order of St John of Jerusalem. As things turned out, the Italian Members of the Order were re-grouped under a Lt Grand Master and ultimately elected a Grand Master, duly sanctioned by the then Pontiff. This branch of the original Order is today known as the Sovereign Military Order of Malta.

The authentic Russian Order of St John claims no connection to the last mentioned but it similarly derives from the original Order that existed in Malta. It derives its historical ‘fons honorum’ from the Czar Paul the First, Emperor of All the Russias, appointed Grand Master of the Order in 1798, following the expulsion from Malta of Grand Master Ferdinand von Hompesch, together with the entire Order by dictat of Napoleon Bonaparte.

The authentic Order of St John work in the fields of charity, medical and social welfare care, and humanitarian aid. Important donations made by the Order include mobile hospitals, ambulances, hospital beds, clothing, computers, medicines and medical equipment to various nations among them China, Russia, Honduras, Iraq, Philippines, Ukraine and Africa.

Sovereign Military Order of Malta

The Order of St John, if it still can be called so, became a political toy of the mighty, who were killing its essence in the name of power and greed. All the good intentions of those who loved it and did their best to restore it to its original splendour ended up being subject to international political manipulation and hidden intentions aimed at gaining leverage over the opposing countries.

This new faction of the Order re-established under total Papal control with the direct appointment of Tommasi and subsequently with the appointment of Guevara Suardo as Lieutenant Grand Master, without bothering to take in consideration the rightfully elected Caracciolo, is commonly known as the Papal Order. Initially, it was composed of the few Italian Knights who resided in Sicily. With the appointment of Suardo as Lt Grandmaster, this Order laid relatively dormant between 1814 and 1834. In 1821 the remnant of the Order, a few Knights, were expelled from Catania by the reign of the two Sicilies following its suppression by King Francis I, and found shelter in Ferrara. In 1834, Pope Gregory XVI reorganised this Order and appointed Carlo Candida as Lt Grand Master. Simultaneously, he summoned the Knights from Ferrara under his direct protection and they took up residence in the old embassy of the Order in Rome.

Lieutenant Candida was the only surviving knight who had held naval command before the fall of Malta. In his years of office, he had asked the Pope for a hospital in which future novices might perform the traditional service of the sick and he took charge of the hospice of Cento Preti at the Ponte Sisto. The Pope's own nephew, Giovanni Cappellari della Colomba, was the first to undertake this almost forgotten duty, taking his vows as a knight in 1836. In 1839 the Austrian government, seconded by the rulers of Parma, Modena and Lucca, restored the Grand Priory of Lombardy-Venetia, and in the same year Ferdinand II founded the Priory of the Two Sicilies with the remnant of what his father had confiscated. In 1844, the King of Sardinia reinstated five commanderies. In 1845, the succession of the Austro-Italian Colloredo as Lieutenant opened the way to easier relations with Vienna. Pope Gregory XVI died only a few months later, and the long pontificate of Pius IX saw a reversion to an attitude of papal indifference. In 1879, Pope Leo XIII reconstituted the Papal Order and appointed Johann Baptist Ceschi a Santa Croce as its Grand Master.

In the 1930’s this Order benefited hugely from the 1929, Lateran treaty. Also, between 1936 - 1942 the Papal Order adopted the name Sovereign Military Order of Malta (SMOM) to distinguish itself. The 1950’s proved to be very difficult times for SMOM.

In 1948 Pope Pius XII made Cardinal Nicola Canali Grand Prior of Rome, against the reluctance of Prince Ludovico Chigi Albani della Rovere, and the following year he became Grand Master of the Holy Sepulchre, an office that the Pope had previously kept in his own hands. Following the death of Grand Master Ludovico in 1951, Cardinal Canali sought in vain to be elected Grand Master of SMOM. Ultimately, a Lt Grandmaster was appointed again directly by the Pope, this, mainly due to frictions the Order had with the Church and a series of scandals concerning the sale of medicines and other related matters. In February 1955, the Pope announced the appointment of a new cardinalitial commission for the reform of the Order. It was composed by the same cardinals that composed the Tribunal.

Following these turbulent times, Angelo de Mojana di Cologna was elected as Grand Master. In 1988, after a brief lieutenancy by Giancarlo Pallavicini, Andrew Bertie became Grand Master.

His Successor, Grand Master Andrew Festing, was involved in a scandal involving SMOM with the distribution of contraceptives and birth-control pills in Africa. Festing was called to a meeting with the Pope and, in a version of events that has not been contradicted, was given a piece of paper and asked to write a letter of resignation.

SMOM is at present under the guidance of Fra, John T. Dunlap, who succeeded as Lieutenant Grand Master another Lieutenant Grand Master, Marco Luzzago. SMOM has always been under direct Papal control. This has been confirmed once again this time by Pope Francis, who personally appointed Fra, Dunlap to the Order’s highest Leiutenancy position without any consultation or election. His Holiness is also determined to see that reforms are carried out, and has placed various cardinals to oversee this process. On 3rd September 2022, the Pope issued a decree by which he dissolved the current Sovereign Council and dismissed the holders of the Order’s four High Offices, namely, the Grand Commander, the Grand Chancellor, the Grand Hospitaller and the Receiver of the Common Treasure. He also established a new, provisional Sovereign Council and announced an Extraordinary Chapter General to be held on 25th January 2023, the feast of the Conversion of St Paul, with the goal of electing a new Grand Master or permanent leader. The meeting would be held according to new regulations personally approved by him and prepared by his delegate to the Order. Subsequently, on 3rd May 2023, the Council of the Order ratified the Pope’s decision and elected Fra. John Dunlop as Grand Master by an absolute majority of votes.

Today, SMOM is considered to be the biggest and most widely recognised Order of St John. It has diplomatic relations with 110 counties and carries out daily, and on a large scale, valuable and praised relief work in all continents. The Order is, at the time of writing, composed of around fifty-five professed Knights, who have taken the vows of chastity and obedience, and around 13,500 members worldwide.

The Venerable Order of St John

In April 1837, Sir Henry Dymoke was appointed Grand Prior of newly formed British Priory and re-established contact with the German and French Knights, which group had by that time expanded. Also, the British Priory considered itself part of the Order of St John, without ever been recognized as such. Dymoke sought to rectify his position and sought recognition by the Roman Catholic Sovereign Military Order of Malta. Surprisingly, his request was refused. In response to this rebuff, the British body declared itself to be the Sovereign Order of St John in the United Kingdom, thereby emphasising the Order's independence and claim to direct and continuous succession from the Order of St John that was established in the 11th century. This new entity grew its membership over the next decades. Additionally, an associated national hospitaller organisation was formed with a corps of ambulances.

The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem is a British royal order of chivalry and was constituted in 1888, by royal charter from Queen Victoria, and is dedicated to St John the Baptist.

The Johanniter Orden

The Grand Bailiwick of Brandenburg was suppressed by King Friedrich Wilhelm III. An edict issued on 30th October 1810 declared all ecclesiastical property was secularised. Subsequently, another edict on 23rd January 1811 dissolved and sequestrated all the property of the Order. The Knights were permitted to wear their insignia during their lifetime. On 15th October 1852, King Friedrich Wilhelm IV reconstituted the Balley Brandenburg des Ritterlichen Ordens St Johannis vom Spital zu Jerusalem, better known as the Johanniter Orden.

The Johanniterorden Sverige

In 1920, the Johanniterorden Sverige started as an affiliate of the German Bailiwick of Brandenburg. After the Second World War, in November 1946, it was granted a Royal Charter by King Gustav V as the Johanniterorden i Sverige. King Gustav XVI is the current High Patron, and Queen Silvia is the First Honorary Member of the Order.

The Johanniter Orde in Nederland

In 1909, the Dutch knights of the Bailiwick of Brandenburg formed their own commandery within the Johanniterorden in the Netherlands. In 1946, the commandery separated from the German Johanniterorden. The commandery became an independent order in 1958 and is known as Johanniter Orde in Nederland. The Order is recognised by the Monarchy, and the Dutch Monarch is an honorary commander. All four Orders cannot claim a direct connection with the original Order of St John. They are a reconstitution, except in their intensions of helping the sick and the poor.

These Orders have one thing in common. They are recognised by their respective monarch. This influenced SMOM to recognise them officially.

The Johanniter Orden of Germany, the Protestant Johanniter of the Netherlands, the Protestant Johanniter of Sweden, the Venerable Order of St John England and the Order of Malta (SMOM) formed the Chivalric Alliance of Orders of St John Association. The main aim of this association is for its members to recognise each other and discredit one particular Order The Russian Order of St John.

FAKE ORDERS OF ST JOHN

The Russian Order of St John is a topic that has been surrounded by controversy and disputes for the past century. It has been engaged in legal battles and accusations with the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (SMOM), each claiming to be the rightful Order of St John while discrediting the other.

The Russian Order of St John has had a distinct and separate history from SMOM. Unlike SMOM, which is under the direct control of the Pope and has remained intact, the OSJ has faced challenges. Following the Bolshevik revolution, the OSJ moved to America and became self-governed. Until the early 1960s, the SOSJ remained relatively intact. Nevertheless, internal power struggles and personal agendas led to divisions in the Order which in turn gave birth to numerous false Orders. It is important to note that a significant portion of these fraudulent Orders were established by individuals who were expelled from the original Order due to their misconduct. These mischievous individuals, driven by a desire for power or personal gain, harboured resentment and sought to create their own groups as a means of enacting their own misguided ambitions.

The motivations driving these expelled members to form false Orders varied. Some sought to gather a following and exert control over others, using their previous association with the Order to establish credibility. By capitalizing on the respect and trust originally associated with the Order, these individuals aimed to exploit the misplaced faith of unsuspecting followers. On the other hand, there were those who simply sought revenge against the original Order. These vindictive individuals used the false Orders as a means to make money, disrupt and undermine the unity of the authentic Order, seeking to dismantle its influence and authority. In doing so, they hoped to exact retribution upon those responsible for their expulsion. The existence of these false Orders not only clouded the true intentions and integrity of the original Order but also caused confusion and discord among its members and supporters. The proliferation of deceitful factions further complicated matters, making it increasingly challenging to discern the genuine Order from its counterfeit counterparts.

In response to this unfortunate situation, the original Order was compelled to take measures to protect its legacy. Efforts were made to educate the public and members about these imposter Orders, providing guidance on how to distinguish between the genuine Order and fraudulent pretenders. Additionally, the Order tightened its selection process, emphasizing character assessment and rigorous screening to minimize the risk of individuals with ulterior motives infiltrating their ranks once more. By acknowledging the existence of these false Orders and striving to combat their negative influence, the original Order hoped to restore faith in their mission and uphold their principles of integrity and righteousness. Though the scars of division remained, the perseverance of the authentic Order ensured that their legacy could prevail despite the disruptive actions of those misled by personal agendas.

Currently, there are numerous groups claiming to be the true Russian Order of St John. While some may have a genuine connection, many of these groups are mere facades aimed at attracting people to join for a fee. These groups often have impressive websites where interested individuals can download an entry form. However, they do not engage in any charitable work or provide assistance to the sick or poor. Their main activities typically revolve around organizing elaborate investitures followed by lavish dinners, all funded by their new recruits. After these events, communication with these groups becomes scarce, unless they are requesting more money.

It is important to note that entry into all true Orders of St John is strictly by invitation only. To evaluate the legitimacy of an Order, certain criteria can be considered.

Firstly, does the Order have a legitimate Royal Protector who is a direct member of a recognized Royal Family and possesses a Fons Honorum (the ability to bestow Knighthood)?

Secondly, does the Order engage in identifiable charity work on a regular basis?

Thirdly, does the Order have a permanent address and headquarters?

Lastly, does the Order file legal returns and/or is it a registered Voluntary Organization in each country where it operates? And do these financial records accurately reflect their revenues and expenses?

Certain Orders of Saint John have formed a private association, called the Alliance of the Orders of Saint John. This association purports to speak authoritatively on which Orders are genuine. However, it is important to note that the Alliance is owned and solely controlled by itself. The Alliance does not recognise the OSJ as an Order. Nevertheless, that does not mean that the OSJ is a fake or non-existent. It just want to stay clear away from the many Orders claiming to be the one true OSJ.

For those with a genuine desire to serve the needy and make a positive impact in the world, it is essential to approach joining any charitable organization with caution. In recent times, numerous fake Orders have emerged, falsely claiming to be supporting philanthropic causes. It is disheartening to witness individuals taking advantage of people's goodwill and tarnishing the reputation of genuine organizations.

Amidst this backdrop, we want to emphasize the existence and importance of the true Order of St. John (OSJ). Unlike its counterfeit counterparts, the authentic OSJ is registered in every country it operates as a voluntary organization (VO). This registration not only ensures legal compliance but also fosters transparency and accountability, both crucial aspects when it comes to charitable work.

The true OSJ distinguishes itself through its tireless dedication to carrying out valuable charity work throughout the year. This reputable organization relies solely on voluntary work and the generosity of its good-hearted members. By foregoing any financial gain or personal benefit, these members exemplify the genuine spirit of selflessness and kinship.

Through its various initiatives, the OSJ extends its helping hand to diverse communities in dire need. Whether it be providing medical aid in impoverished regions, offering education and vocational training to underprivileged youth, or supporting disaster relief efforts, the OSJ leaves an indelible impact on those it serves. Furthermore, the organization remains committed to providing ongoing support and assistance, ensuring its charitable efforts are sustainable and make a lasting difference.

As the saying goes, actions speak louder than words. The continuous dedication and selflessness of the OSJ members are a testament to the organization's authenticity and integrity. It is their unwavering commitment to making the world a better place that distinguishes the true OSJ from the pretenders.

So, for those individuals seeking to embrace a meaningful journey of serving the needy, we encourage you to exercise caution. Research thoroughly and verify the legitimacy of any organization before joining. The true OSJ stands as a shining example of a genuine and impactful charitable order, one that truly embodies the essence of humanity.