In 1883 in Quebec City, the first Canadian branch of St. John Ambulance to teach first aid courses was established. Shortly thereafter courses were being offered in Kingston, Ontario. In the next 10 years, St. John Ambulance grew to be a national organization and in 1892 it had 12 branches teaching first aid. In those early years, alongside the continued growth in first aid training, St. John Ambulance also began a proud tradition of volunteer work in our communities. Soon the volunteers of St. John became a common and welcome sign in times of emergency in communities across the country.
125th Anniversary Volunteer Appreciation Reception
To kick-off the festivities, volunteers from across Canada received awards for their exceptional leadership, distinctive service and lifesaving skills at the Volunteer Appreciation Reception held at the historic Army Officers’ Mess. “In this special anniversary year, we felt it was important to recognize the outstanding contributions made by our volunteers,” says Dawn Roach, Priory of Canada Secretary. More»
125th Anniversary Commemorative Envelope
On Friday June 20, hundreds more celebrated the unveiling Canada Post’s official “SJA Commemorative Envelope” marking the historic 125th anniversary. Guests included St. John volunteers, staff and board members; Dr. Christopher McCreery; Order of St. John Archivist and Geneaologist, Charles Maier; Hospitaller; and Canada Post representatives. More»
125th Anniversary Book Launch (Click here to buy the book)
Later that day, the much-anticipated 125th anniversary book entitled “The Maple Leaf and White Cross: A History of St. John Ambulance and the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in Canada” was launched. Noted historian of Canadian and Commonwealth honours systems, the Priory of Canada’s own historian, and a member of the Order of St. John, author Dr. Christopher McCreery delighted guests with project anecdotes and acknowledgements to the many people who helped him write the book. More»
Service of Remembrance
Under a glorious blue sky and beneath the shadows of the memorial’s bronzed and sculpted depiction of triumphant soldiers, St. John Ambulance hosted its second Service of Remembrance at the National War Memorial, fittingly at 11:00 am. More»
National Investiture – Senate Chamber
On behalf of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlla Jean, Governor General of Canada and Prior of the Priory of Canada, conferred the honour of the Order of St. John* upon 27 volunteers for their outstanding service to humanity. The ceremony was presided over by Mr. Eric Barry, the Lord Prior of the Order of St. John in the regal surroundings of Canada’s Senate Chamber. More»