A Journey of Faith Across Continents
Foundation of a Worldwide Movement
The Knights of St John International emerged in New York during the late 19th century—a time of social and religious transformation. In 1879, Catholic men united to form a fraternity dedicated to service, moral uplift, and loyalty to the Church. Their efforts culminated in the incorporation of the Roman Catholic Union of the Knights of St John on May 6, 1886.
Spreading the Mission
From its New York roots, the organisation spread rapidly across the United States, establishing commanderies in Buffalo, Baltimore, Cincinnati, and Detroit. By the early 20th century, the Knights had extended their reach to Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, Panama, and the Canal Zone. Their mission remained consistent: fostering fraternity among Catholic men, strengthening moral and social values, and supporting members in times of need.
A New Chapter Begins
The Knights' African journey began in 1933 when Anthony Quansah, a Ghanaian shipping clerk, sought permission to establish a commandery in Saltpond, Ghana. Soon after, Sacred Heart Commandery No. 351 was inaugurated in Accra, marking the organisation's formal introduction to the continent.
Establishing Roots in Sierra Leone
In 1978, the Knights of St John International were officially introduced to Sierra Leone with the founding of Sacred Heart Commandery No. 420 in Freetown. The initiative, approved by the late Archbishop Thomas Joseph Brosnahan, followed years of advocacy by Catholic leaders. The inaugural ceremony welcomed 42 members, placing Sierra Leone under the jurisdiction of the West African Grand Commandery in Ghana.
The organisation quickly flourished, establishing new commanderies including:
By 2006, the Knights extended their activities beyond Freetown, strengthening their presence across provincial communities.
Milestones of Growth
Sierra Leone attained a Grand Commandery status in 1995 under the Ghana Supreme Subordinate Commandery. In 2017, the country advanced further when Supreme Subordinate status was conferred, resulting in the creation of two Grand Commanderies:
Grand Commandery
Grand Commandery
A Strong Foundation for Service
Today, the Knights of St John International in Sierra Leone operate through a well-structured hierarchy, with 16 commanderies in Freetown/Makeni and 11 in Bo/Kenema. Their work continues to focus on charitable initiatives, spiritual growth, and community service. Through these efforts, the Knights remain a pillar of faith and fraternity, enriching the lives of Catholics and the wider Sierra Leonean community.